Best of Oceanside Magazine Spring 2023

Best of OCEANSIDE

M A G A Z I N E

8 Genentech: Investing in the Future of Manufacturing A PUBLICATION OF THE OCEANSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

43 Oceanside Young Professionals Serving the Community

• Spotlight on Mottino Family YMCA

24 Oceanside to Host SoCal Asian and Pacific Islander Festival

Satoru Yamaki Owner, Ikigai Artifacts MiraCosta Alumnus

Genentech

THE INCREASINGLY DIVERSE WORLD AROUND US.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to be the industry leader to deliver scientific innovations that drive better outcomes for our people, patients, business, and communities by advancing and boldly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

FOSTERING BELONGING ADVANCING INCLUSIVE RESEARCH & HEALTH EQUITY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

Genentech embraces the increasingly diverse world around us.

embraces the increasingly diverse world around us.

Genentech embraces the increasingly diverse world around us.

Genentech embraces the increasingly diverse world around us.

Genentech embraces the increasingly diverse world around us.

BEST OF OCEANSIDE MAGAZINE

SPRING 2023

Best of Oceanside Magazine is published by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce in 4 editions: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. This publication is available at the Chamber office, local businesses, Sunset Market, and in digital format on the Chamber’s website.

CONTACT US

928 N. Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 722-1534

info@oceansidechamber.com

www.OceansideChamber.com

Produced and published by the staff of the Oceanside Chamber

Copyright Oceanside Chamber of Commerce

All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2023

Design: Scott Ashton and Tiffany Smith

A Commitment to Invest in Oceanside's Youth

By Scott Ashton CEO, Oceanside Chamber of Commerce

One of the most rewarding elements of our Chamber’s work in recent years has been with Oceanside’s youth. This work has been driven primarily by three initiatives…Rising Star Student of the Month, SOCAL Workforce, and most recently our partnership with Oceanside’s GEAR UP program.

The first to launch was our Rising Star program which kicked off in November of 2021. Each month throughout the school year, we recognize high school students who have overcome personal challenges and adversity to excel in academics and in life. Their stories are compelling, inspiring, and sometimes heartbreaking. Last May, we were able to distribute $23k in scholarships to eleven deserving students. As of this writing, we are on track to provide more than $30k in scholarships this May.

In December 2021, in partnership with Tri-City Medical Center, San Diego North EDC, and our neighboring Chambers in Carlsbad and Vista, we launched the SOCAL Workforce program with the goal of bringing career awareness to the region’s middle school and high school students, and to ultimately provide a strong workforce pipeline for our employers. The program website currently highlights almost 90 different careers and should have well over 100 by the midpoint of this year.

Most recently, our partnership with the GEAR UP Oceanside program has given us the opportunity to equip students from El Camino High School and Oceanside High School with important networking skills they will need as they advance in their education and/or career. In March, we held a panel discussion offering tips on how to approach networking. A follow-up session is planned to allow the students to implement what they learned in a “live” networking session with local business leaders. More information about these programs can be found on page 34 in this Best of Oceanside Magazine edition.

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following Chamber Partners for their generous financial contributions to the Chamber’s program of work. EMERALD PARTNERS PLATINUM PARTNERS SILVER

Who benefits from local municipal bonds in our community?

Our local community is a place we like to call home! It’s where we choose to work and play. It’s where we raise our families.

Our lives are enriched by convenient services we enjoy each day. Many of these services are paid for by municipal bonds.

Municipal bonds play a pivotal role in helping build and transform our communities.

When you invest in municipal bonds, you may be helping fund our public schools, building bridges and roads on which we travel each day, and building quality housing for our elderly. Municipal investments finance our airports, fire departments, hospitals, libraries, parks, the water systems that support our homes, and so much more. As a municipal bond investor, you are helping your community!

If you want to keep more of your hard-earned dollars, you may also appreciate the attractive tax-free income from municipal bonds.

Stifel plays a significant role in our region’s municipal bond market. We will be happy to help you find which tax-free municipal bond investments may be right for you.

Local municipal bonds can play an important role in our communities, and may play an important role

Evan Hennessy Vice President/Investments (760) 804-3424 direct | (866) 431-2389 toll-free hennessye@stifel.com | www.evanhennessy.net For more information, contact:

kp.org/sandiego

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Nazeli Dertsakian Genentech Chair

Robbie Calderon-Hass Hass Team Realty Chair Elect

Bob Waite AFLAC

Immediate Past Chair

Marva Bledsoe

Nonprofit Management Consulting Secretary/Treasurer

Bill Birnie

Frontwave Credit Union Vice Chair

Ernie Prieto

Oceanside Sea Center Vice Chair

125Years

Kevin Shin The Switchboard Restaurant Vice Chair

DIRECTORS

Joe Gabaldon

San Diego Gas & Electric

Rushell Gordon Bliss Tea and Treats

Lupe Gonzalez

Equus Workforce Solutions

Kristen Huyck

MiraCosta College

Maria Mingalone Oceanside Museum of Art

Dona San Miguel

California State University San Marcos

Jessica Shrader

Tri-City Medical Center

Tom Son

Arrowood Golf Course

Lauren Sweeton The Brick Hotel

Joshua Van Orden Oceanside Therapy Group

Kevin Witowich

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Rick Wright MainStreet Oceanside

ADVISORS

Leslee Gaul Visit Oceanside

Michelle Geller

City of Oceanside

Captain Michael Kos

Oceanside Police Department

Jess Specht

Oceanside Fire Department

Dr. Julie Vitale

Oceanside Unified School Dist.

Col. Daniel Whitley

United States Marine Corps

STAFF

Scott Ashton

Chief Executive Officer

Gwen Bryson

Customer Service Specialist

Porsche Copeland

Events and Young Professionals Coordinator

Tracy Chin

Finance and HR Director

Hana Gilbert

Communications and Customer Service Coordinator

Rosie Hurt

Design and Media Specialist

Vanessa Lee

Business Development Representative

DEDICATION THAT GOES BEYOND THE CURB

We’re not just another waste company, we’re a trusted partner that’s with you along your daily journey, wherever it might take you. Because this is about more than just managing recyclables and waste, it’s about providing the solutions you need.

To learn more, visit home.wm.com/oceanside

GENENTECH: Investing in the Future of Manufacturing

Article provided by Genentech

In the more than 45 years since Genentech launched the biotechnology industry and pioneered the processes and technologies used to commercially manufacture biologics, the company has evolved to make medicines more efficiently at scale and deliver them as quickly as possible to patients with serious, life-threatening conditions.

In 2021, the combined Genentech and Roche global manufacturing network produced more than 55 million vials of medicine for patients around the world. Today, Genentech uses protein engineering to make complicated types of biologics such as bispecifics that enable simultaneous binding to two different disease targets.

While just four decades ago it was challenging to produce grams of these transformational medicines, the future of manufacturing now relies on nimble processes to produce smaller, personalized medicines that can have an even greater impact on patients.

“Genentech’s new Clinical Supply Center is at the forefront of a modern manufacturing evolution,” says Jeff Davis, executive director, Clinical Supply Center. “Keeping pace with the increasingly personalized nature of health care, it presents a new model for small-batch manufacturing that enables speedier bench-to-bedside delivery of clinical trial medicines and more agile production of potential therapeutics for smaller patient populations, including those with rare diseases or specific biomarker-driven subtypes

of cancer.” Genentech has invested more than $250 million in this innovative biologics facility, which is the latest example of our long-standing commitment to our California operations as well as our dedication to environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.”

A PEEK INSIDE THE CLINICAL SUPPLY CENTER

The Clinical Supply Center will produce investigational medicines from Genentech’s Research and Early Development group for delivery to patients in clinical trials.

This new facility has been designed to leverage process improvements developed in-house that significantly increase the concentration of therapeutic proteins while improving flexibility and speed, and reducing their environmental footprint. Bioreactors are also located in a contained manufacturing area within a single open space production floor – known

The Oceanside campus will be the first of its kind in the Roche global manufacturing network dedicated to full scale commercial production and is part of $450 million investment in advanced manufacturing capabilities in Oceanside.

as a “ballroom” - that allow the company to rapidly reconfigure equipment for various scenarios and scales. Through artificial intelligence and new digital technologies, Genentech continuously optimizes for what the cells need to thrive, producing these investigational medicines faster.

ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING

The Clinical Supply Center enables Genentech to produce more clinical trial medicines in smaller volume batches at an unprecedented speed and with less impact on the environment. For example, the bioreactors are lined with single-use, soft plastic bags protecting the cell material from touching the metal. This eliminates the need to clean and sterilize the bioreactors after each manufacturing run, which significantly reduces the amount of water, steam and

chemicals used. This innovative approach means the Clinical Supply Center uses 28% less water compared to other facilities.

“It may sound surprising, but single-use technology is a more eco-friendly option for biologics manufacturing. Not having to clean or generate steam means we can significantly cut back our energy, water, and chemical use, which is critical given our location in drought-prone California,” said Dante Lee, Genentech senior director, Production Support. “None of our plastic goes to landfill. We are currently recycling, downcycling or converting used materials into energy as well as exploring new circular economy solutions to further reduce our environmental impact.”

The company has made significant progress toward reducing their overall environmental footprint. The Clinical Supply Center uses 25% less energy overall and sources 100% of its electricity from renewable

sources, including onsite solar generation. The facility has earned LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council and all of Genentech’s manufacturing sites have been registered with the U.S. Department of Energy's Better Climate Challenge enabling Genentech to share best practices with other companies around the country. Both the Clinical Supply Center and the new manufacturing facility in Oceanside, CA are important examples of how Genentech is advancing toward their corporate sustainability goals to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 40%, water use by 20%, total landfill waste by 20% and plastic waste by 20% at their South San Francisco campus by 2025. The company is also on a path to achieve true zero emissions by 2045.

The new commercial biologics facility on Genentech’s Oceanside campus will be the first of its kind in the Roche global manufacturing network dedicated to full scale commercial production and is part of a $450 million investment in advanced manufacturing capabilities in Oceanside. Modeled after the Clinical Supply Center, the facility will incorporate the same

technologies and sustainability practices, and, by standardizing the design of the two facilities, the amount of time needed to transfer production from the clinical to commercial site will be significantly reduced. Once the new facility is operational in early 2025, it will just take a matter of days – instead of the traditional six to eighteen months – to complete this process, getting medicines to patients faster.

After more than four decades at the forefront of biologics manufacturing innovation, Genentech is now at the vanguard of a new movement in manufacturing. Starting with the Clinical Supply Center as the flagship location, and with the new biologics manufacturing facility in Oceanside, Genentech has made significant progress on what will ultimately expand to become a core and integral part of their manufacturing network of the future.

Dr. Gene Ma Named Interim President and CEO of TCHD

Tri-City Healthcare District (TCHD) announced the appointment of Dr. Gene Ma as interim President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organization effective March 22, 2023.

“I am pleased to announce that the board of directors unanimously selected Dr. Ma for this very important role,” said Rocky Chavez, chairperson of TCHD’s seven-member publicly-elected board of directors.

“Dr. Ma is a proven leader with more than two decades of service to the medical center.”

Dr. Ma currently serves as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for TCHD, a role he has held since 2019.

“I am deeply honored and humbled by the board’s expression of confidence in my ability to provide

stability at this moment in time,” stated Dr. Ma. “Despite unimaginable challenges in healthcare over the last few years, we have accomplished so much during Mr. Dietlin’s tenure, yet what truly excites me are the opportunities ahead of us in Tri-City’s future.” An emergency department physician at Tri-City for over 20 years and a 10-time honoree as one of San Diego's Top Doctors in Emergency Medicine, Dr. Ma has served in numerous administrative roles within Tri-City, including as the chief of staff, a role which he held from 2015-2017.

Current President and CEO Steve Dietlin, who has served in the organization’s top leadership position since 2016, announced his retirement in December 2022. His last day was March 21, 2023.

The TCHD board of directors has engaged HealthSearch Partners, an executive search firm out of Dallas, Texas, to aid in a national search for a permanent President and CEO for the District.

UPCOMING NETWORKING EVENTS

The Oceanside Chamber is excited to host a variety of upcoming in-person forums, workshops, and networking events. Please check the Chamber calendar for all event updates.

RISING STAR STUDENT RECOGNITION BREAKFAST

The Oceanside Chamber's Rising Star Program aims to champion students that have overcome significant challenges in their life but have managed to keep or get back on track with their education. The Chamber will honor one high school senior each month from each of our area high schools at a breakfast event. Rising Star Breakfast events are open to all educators, family members of students being honored, Chamber Board Members, business leaders, community members and event sponsors. Tickets are $25 for Chamber members and $40 for prospective members. Tuesday, April 18th and May 30th from 8 AM - 9:30 AM

SECOND TUESDAY COFFEE

You’re invited to join us for the Oceanside Chamber’s Second Tuesday Coffee! We invite you to our conference room on the second Tuesday of every month from 8 AM – 9 AM. Second Tuesday Coffee is a great opportunity for Oceanside Chamber members to connect with other local businesses. Attendees will have a chance to introduce their business and will have access to a participant list to stay connected after the event. Be sure to bring your business cards! This event is free to Oceanside Chamber members and $20 for prospective members. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

Tuesday, April 11th, May 9th, June 13th from 8 AM – 9 AM

MILITARY AFFAIRS FORUM

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Forum provides an avenue for Oceanside Chamber members to learn about key issues relating to Oceanside's relationship with Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and the servicemembers serving on the base. This meeting is open to all Oceanside Chamber members and invited guests only and will be held the second Thursday of the month (odd numbered months), from 8 AM to 9 AM in the Oceanside Chamber conference room.

Thursday May 11th and July 13th, from 8 AM – 9 AM

OCEANSIDE CHAMBER BUSINESS MIXERS

The Oceanside Chamber hosts monthly Business Mixers at varying locations. From 5 PM - 7 PM, join us for an opportunity to mix and mingle with other business owners and employees in and around Oceanside. Complimentary appetizers will be served with a cash bar. The cost is $10 for Chamber Members and $20 for Prospective Members.

Upcoming Events:

 April 13th from 5 PM – 7 PM at Arrowood Golf Course

 May 10th from 5 PM – 7 PM at the Army and Navy Academy

– Joint Business Mixer with the Carlsbad Chamber

 June 14th from 5 PM – 7 PM at Felix's BBQ with Soul

THE OCEANSIDE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

The Oceanside Young Professional Network (OYPN) are vital to planning and executing events throughout Oceanside for young professionals to network with like-minded peers, engage in the community, and stay informed on local issues. Chamber members and non-members alike in this age group are encouraged to come to committee meetings and contribute to the program's development. The group meets every month for networking, team building events, volunteer opportunities and more. Please check the Chamber’s event calendar for information on location.

Contact Porsche Copeland at Porsche@oceansidechamber. com to learn how to get involved!

Upcoming Events:

 OYP Volunteering: Saturday, May 13, 2023 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM at Brother Benno Foundation





OYP Networking Lunch: Thursday, May 25, 2023 12:00 Noon - 1:00 PM at The Plot

OYP Networking & Workshop: Social Media vs. Google My Business – Tuesday, June 6, 2023 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Go

Be Rewarded

Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture

A r t s & C u l t u r e e v e n t s h a p p e n t h r o u g h o u t t h e c i t y . brought to you by the

C i t y o f O c

Festivals & Multicultural Events

DISCOVER ARTS & CULTURE IN YOUR DISTRICT

DISCOVER ARTS & CULTURE THIS

SPRING

e a n s i d e A r t s C o m m i s s i o n

h r o u g h o u t t h e c i t y , i n c l u d i n g i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ! brought to you by the

District One

W i l d c a t R u n C a r a n d M o t o r S h o w ( 4 / 2 9 ) E l C a m i n o

S o C a l A s i a n & P a c i f i c I s l a n d e r F e s t i v a l ( 4 / 2 9 ) D o w n

A r m e d F o r c e s D a y O p e r a t i o n A p p r e c i a t i o n ( 5 / 2 0 ) P

( D 1 )

* N e w E v e n t * O ' S i d e M a r d i G r a s : 1 v i s i t o c e a n s i d e o r g / o s i d e - m a r d i - g

P r i d e b y t h e B e a c h ( 6 / 3 ) D o w n t o w n ( D 1 )

O c e a n s i d e I n t e r n a t i o n a l F i l m F e s t o s i d e f i l m o r g

A r t i s t A w a k e n i n g :

A n n u a l F i l i p i n o C u l t u r a l F i e s t a ( 6 / 1 0 ) C i v i c C e n t e r P

S a n L u i s R e y B a n d o f M i s s i o n I n d i a n s I n t e r - t r i b a l P o w

M i s s i o n S a n L u i s R e y ( D 4 )

J u n e t e e n t h ( 6 / 1 9 ) C i v i c C e n t e r P l a z a ( D 1 )

Music, Theater & Film

D a r i n g G r e a t l y ( 4 / 2 2 ) B r o o k s T h e a t e r ( D 1 )

S h e K i l l s M o n s t e r s ( 4 / 2 7 - 5 / 7 ) M i r a C o s t a ( D 3 )

D i s n e y ' s T h e L i t t l e M e r m a i d ( 4 / 2 8 - 5 / 7 ) S

t e r ( D 1 )

D a n c e B r e a k 2 0 2 3 ( 5 / 1 8 - 2 1 ) M i r a C o s t a ( D 3 )

T h e D e c a D a m e s ( 6 / 3 ) B r o o k s T h e a t e r ( D 1 )

Classes & Workshops

C r a f t e r s S t u d i o - W e A r e A l l N e i g h b o r s ( m o n t h l y ) S t u d i o A C E ( D 2 )

D o w n t o w n H i s t o r y W a l k ( m o n t h l y ) D o w n t o w n ( D 1 )

F i r s t S u n d a y C o m m u n i t y A r t + C o f f e e a n d C o n v e r s a t i o n ( m o n t h l y ) O M A +

S t u d i o A C E ( D 1 )

H u l a B a s i c s ( w e e k l y ) 4 2 6 3 O c e a n s i d e B l v d ( D 4 )

N o r t h C o u n t y M o d e l R a i l r o a d S o c i e t y S p r i n g S w a p M e e t ( 5 / 1 3 ) H e r i t a g e

P a r k ( D 4 )

u i k u i k a n a n i c o m

S h a p e d b y G o d : A n A r t a n d S p i r i t u a l i t y R e t r e S a n L u i s R e y - s a n l u i s r e y . o r g / r e t r e a t s - e v e n t s

S i p P a i n t a n d G a z e ( w e e k l y ) C y n t h i a ' s A r t i s t i c E x p r e s s i o n s @ M i s s i o n P a c i f i c ( D 1 )

T w i s t e d S t i t c h e s L i b r a r y Y a r n C l u b ( m o n t h l y ) M i s s i o n B r a n c h L i b r a r y ( D 2 )

U k u l e l e L e s s o n s ( d a t e s t b d ) C i v i c C e n t e r L i b r a r y ( D 1 )

Do You Have a Special Event Coming Up in 2023?

Do You Have a Special Event Coming Up in 2023?

Let us know what events are happening in your district April-June 2023

Let us know what events are happening in your district January-March 2023

Email: arts _commission@oceansideca.org

Email: arts commission@oceansideca.org

S c a n Q R C o d e f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t O c e a n s i d e e v e n t s

(D1) District 1, (D2) District 2, (D3) District 3, (D4) District 4

Ribbon Cuttings

TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH + DINNER

Sami Ladeki, the restaurateur behind Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza has opened a new concept – Toasted Gastrobrunch + Dinner in Oceanside at 339 North Cleveland Street (92054). Toasted has all the brunch favorites including bottomless mimosas served daily from 8am to 3pm. At 3pm, Happy Hour begins with shareables and other delicious items at 50% off until 6pm. The Dinner menu will be served from 3-8pm, which has new specialties, along with some of Sammy’s favorites. The new Oceanside location is steps from the pedestrian walkway to the beach and features a full bar. www.toastedoceanside.com

Oceanside Approves $2.6M Beach Sand

Phase 2 Pilot Project

By Save Oceanside Sand Board

Relentless storms and strong currents have pounded the Oceanside coastline this winter, sweeping away vast amounts of sand, further decimating our beaches! Oceanside beach restoration advocate group, Save Oceanside Sand (SOS) continues to collaborate with the City of Oceanside on approval and execution of a plan to restore and retain sand on our entire shoreline. Here are some updates and recent milestones over the past three months.

On January 5th, a team from the Los Angeles District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) walked the Oceanside shoreline with City Officials. They then

met with Oceanside City officials and later in the day with S.O.S. board members. During these meetings, the Commanding Officer of the LA District, Colonel Julie Balten expressed urgency to complete the $1.8M Federal study over the next 32 months. The USACE study will produce a report identifying a preferred solution to restore the Oceanside shoreline. For more information on the USACE study, visit the Oceanside Coastal Management Website – scan the QR code on the next page.

Oceanside City Coastal Zone Administrator Jayme Timberlake continues to spearhead efforts and the

city has actively pursued several coastal projects to restore our beaches. The most significant project is the Oceanside Beach Sand Nourishment and Retention Pilot Project Phase 2 that Oceanside Staff presented to the City Council on January 25. The City Staff provided a very comprehensive plan. Two key components of the plan are identification of a robust sand source to conduct major beach sand nourishment efforts and a design competition for innovative engineering solutions for a sand retention solution. For complete information on the Phase 2 pilot project, visit the city Oceanside Coastal Management Website – scan the QR code below.

A ‘call to action’ newsletter went out to the 500 members of S.O.S., suggesting letters of support for beach replenishment and retention. Over 90% of the 292 pieces of correspondence received by the Council were in support of Phase 2. Thank you to all who responded in support of the Phase 2 project!

The City Council vote was dramatic. The $2.6M phase 2 pilot project was approved 4-1. Our 4 District Councilmembers, Peter Weiss, Ryan Keim, Rick Robison, and Eric Joyce voted to fund the project. Only our Mayor, Ester Sanchez cast the single dissenting vote, citing her objection to any type of hard structure beach sand retention system.

Leading up to the City Council vote on January 25, volunteers from Save Oceanside Sand asked Oceanside residents to speak at the Council meeting expressing their concern for more sand on the beach.

The local beach sand restoration advocacy group, Save Oceanside Sand group fully supports our city’s efforts to restore our amazing shoreline! Every Saturday during the summer our popup appears on The Strand to provide outreach and education to the community on the shoreline issues and the city’s solutions. Stop by and get informed or sign our petition to show support for the Oceanside Phase 2 plan! For more information and to help Save Oceanside Sand, visit SOSOceanside.com – or scan the QR code below.

The local beach sand restoration advocacy group, Save Oceanside Sand group fully supports our city’s efforts to restore our amazing shoreline!

Innovative Employee Benefits to Help Attract More Veterans

By Joe Molina National Veterans Chamber of Commerce

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans notes that employers are getting creative by developing new benefits to keep employees happy and healthy and attract new talent. As baby boomers continue to retire, organizations need to recruit highly qualified people to fill vital roles.

Providing enhanced benefits can help an organization’s bottom line by creating goodwill within the workforce, which can result in better customer service and higher productivity. So here are a few popular incentive ideas, presented to you by The National Veterans Chamber.

COACHING AND MENTORSHIP

Mentoring can be beneficial in helping entry-level employees learn their roles and develop their skills. Additionally, it assists long-term workers who are moving to new positions. The process encourages

personal growth, builds strong leaders, and increases job satisfaction, enabling the organization to retain talent, cost-effectively manage knowledge transfer to new hires, and strengthen leadership within teams.

TUITION COVERAGE/REIMBURSEMENT

More companies have realized the benefits of helping employees pay for college. Employees have the chance to advance their careers, while employers can put that new knowledge to work for the business. By offering to help pay for college tuition, you’ll be showing your staff that professional development is important to your company, and you can engender a lot of good will and loyalty. Consider also promoting online colleges so your staff can more easily balance work and their personal lives when going back to school.

EMPOWER A REMOTE WORKFORCE

Today’s business environment has already embraced a remote workforce, so give employees as many remote work options as possible. This is very

appealing to those who love to travel and want the freedom to work from anywhere. All they’ll need is a laptop, a cell phone, and a secure internet and/or satellite connection.

ON-SITE FITNESS CLASSES

A growing number of organizations are offering onsite fitness classes as a benefit. As Corporate Wellness magazine points out, this supports the organization’s culture and encourages healthy lifestyles , reduces absenteeism due to illness, improves team communication and productivity, and builds company pride by giving employees a shared experience that brings people together.

IMPROVED WORK ENVIRONMENT

Offering free healthy snacks in the break area can make employees happier. Healthy snacks are better for them than candy or microwaveable meals. The organization benefits because healthier workers take fewer sick days, require less medical insurance coverage, produce higher quality work, have decreased absenteeism rates, and have higher morale.

ON-SITE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Employers are considering various ways to provide mental health support in the workplace. This can be a considerable asset in raising awareness, destigmatizing mental illness, and encouraging people from all walks of life to feel comfortable opening up about their conditions. Employees have access to an intellectually safe environment for sharing their challenges without fear of being judged or ridiculed, which leads to increased productivity and more substantial retention rates.

CHILDCARE SUPPORT

More employers are offering childcare support to help recruit and retain talented employees. This can be a strong differentiator when trying to compete with other companies. In today’s highly competitive

job market, employees have many choices for employment and can be selective about which companies get their time and expertise.

PET-FRIENDLY OFFICES

Pets make humans happier and healthier. Studies show that spending time with furry friends increases morale, alleviates stress and anxiety, improves blood pressure and heart rate, speeds up recovery from illness or injury, reduces loneliness, and encourages physical activity. Organizations that offer pet-friendly office areas benefit because they demonstrate a willingness to accommodate a broad range of employee needs, build camaraderie among the workforce, and improve employee retention.

EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION SURVEYS

Many companies conduct an employee satisfaction survey each year to give employers the necessary information to implement changes and keep employees happy. These anonymous reviews are ideal for measuring how employees feel about specific programs and acquiring ideas for new incentives.

NOMINATE A HERO: The National Veterans Chamber Radio Show

 Would you like to Nominate a Hero? Let us know, and we will announce it on the show.

 Would you like to share your story? Then, be our guest on the show. Email us at veteransccsd@ gmail.com

 If you have any ideas or a project that you would like to Developed in collaboration with the National Veterans Chamber, send your ideas to: veteransccsd@gmail.com.

STAY & PLAY LOCAL

ANGELS & GURUS YOGA STUDIO & ART CAFE

Angels and Gurus Kundalini Yoga Studio & Art Cafe is a collective of locally produced handmade goods including the studio’s own handmade gemstone jewelry. The cafe serves 100% certified organic coffee and tea and is open from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tuesday - Sunday. The studio also offers a variety of yoga classes for all levels of experience, including, Prenatal/ Gentile Yoga, Angelic Yoga, Fragrant Qigong, Kundalini Yoga, Meditation, and Live Mantra Sound Healing. Yoga Classes and times can be found on the website at angelsandgurus.org.

The studio, cafe and art shop are all located at 1920 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054. For additional information please call (760) 576-1409.

ARROWOOD GOLF COURSE

Designed by prominent local architect Ted Robinson Jr, the Arrowood golf course is a par-71, 6,721-yard layout embedded in the Arrowood community. Bordered by undeveloped, riparian habitat, the course feels of natural seclusion. While the open spaces instill relaxation, four sets of tees ensure a golf test to suit any skill level. The greens are a blend of Poa-annua and Bermuda grass, firm and fast. At one instance, the player is invited to swing away, while the next shot may bring elevation changes, strategic bunkering or a stern breeze. The ocean breeze will wake you up later in the morning and on into the afternoon. It typically peaks when you get to the more difficult part of the round, the final four holes,

also known as The Quandary.

Arrowood Golf Course’s newest edition, Flight Deck, takes golf to a whole new level of fun and excitement. Using the same dynamic technology seen on PGA broadcasts, Toptracer®️ computers transform the old “driving range” experience using launch, speed, curve and other data analysis. The state-of-the-art camera system tracks balls with real time results as you hit on the “Live” range. Play the famous virtual golf courses, Go Fish, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive and others while getting instant feedback with each shot. Fun for the whole family!

Learn more about the course or book a tee time at www. arrowoodgolf.com. Or, give them a call at (760) 967-8400.

BEACH BREAK CAFE

Started in 1988 by Gary and Zell Dwelley, Beach Break Cafe has established itself as an essential part of the Oceanside community. Located off the historic 101 Highway, this surf-inspired diner serves American fare with a California twist. People taking a break from the beach, or those who want a pre-ocean meal, flock here for the moist, cinnamon-laced coffee cake drizzled with frosting or the giant and inventive four-egg omelets and scrambles. While dining, patrons can check out the colorful surfboards, surfboard-inspired ceiling fan and surf photos that decorate this breakfast-and-lunchonly spot. The Banana Crunch French Toast is a favorite, dipped in honey bunches of oats for the crunch and then topped with bananas and a healthy dose of whipped cream. The wait can be long on weekends, but the Dwelley’s

set up an honor-system coffee station. Come on down to this coastal spot for “Great Service. Great Food. Great Friends.”

Beach Break Cafe is located at 1802 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054. To-go orders can be placed at (760) 439-6355.

BOAT RENTALS OF AMERICA

A family owned and operated company, Boat Rentals of America is helping you create your favorite memories. The company’s first location opened April 1, 1992 in Newport Beach, California and has remained their flagship location to this day. They pride themselves on providing a safe and enjoyable experience on the water and have done so for nearly thirty years.

Boat Rentals of America is proud to have a location right here in Oceanside. Rent a boat and enjoy the quaint harbor and village atmosphere. Stop at one of the many village restaurants and bring your refreshments onboard for a real nautical picnic. While USMC Camp Pendleton beachfront hovers to the north, to the south the coastline is pristine and great for all water sports. With a wide variety of watercraft, Boat Rentals of America is sure to have something to make every member of your group happy.

Boat Rentals of America is located at 256 Harbor Dr. South, Oceanside, CA 92054. Book your next adventure by calling (855) 690-0794.

CYNTHIA'S ARTISTIC EXPRESSIONS

Cynthia’s Artistic Expressions is a family-owned art gallery and studio founded by two Gulf War Navy veterans, Cynthia and W.B. The studio was created to show how art can be used as a form of expression, to release stress, and to increase mental and emotional health. As a U.S. Navy Medic, Cynthia learned to use art therapeutically to help with mental, emotional and pain symptoms and has personally watched and experienced the positive changes that art can bring. W.B., having served in the U.S. Navy during the Persian Gulf War, used art to successfully manage his PTSD symptoms. A self-taught artist, W. B. looks for the hidden beauty in all things, and uses Photorealism to concentrate on beauty in the most minute details.

Together, Cynthia and W.B. have dedicated themselves to serving the greater community with an emphasis on therapeutic art healing for veterans and active duty service members. They specialize in museum quality fine art, custom sip and paint parties and so much more. Learn more about the studio’s offerings by visiting www.cynthiasartisticexpressions.com or by calling (760) 421-4422.

DOMINIC'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Dominic’s opened in the 2000 as just a little, hole-in-thewall pizza place down in the Oceanside harbor. The holein-the-wall spot is now a full-service Italian Restaurant with plenty of indoor dining as well as a large harbor patio view. Their gourmet and hand-tossed pizzas have been internationally recognized and hold a variety of awards. Their appetizers, salads, soups, pasta, seafood, chicken and steak are sure to please even the most demanding palate.

At Dominic’s, you can expect a fine Italian meal. You’re encouraged to take time enjoying your meal and relaxing with the wine or beverage of your choosing. Reserve a table on the patio and dine “on the waterfront” while taking in the spectacular scenic views of the daytime

harbor or the ambience offered with the setting sun and fall of night. Day or night, you are certain to remember Dominic’s Italian Cuisine’s combination of great food, tasty drink, old world service and a spectacular setting.

The Dominic’s Italian Restaurant has recently expanded again, adding a wine bar with over 50 wines and 13 beers on tap, an Italian cafe, full cappuccino bar, Italian pastries, and authentic Italian gelato. The restaurant is located at 268 Harbor Dr S, Oceanside, CA 92054. See the full menu at www.dominicsoceanside.com or give them a call at (760) 754-1881.

FARMS

The first Frazier Farms store opened on Grand Avenue in Escondido in 1971. In 1978, that store moved to Center City Parkway. The popular store eventually expanded to four locations. After operating as a Boney’s Market and Henry’s Marketplace, in 2006, the Frazier family proudly returned the name to Frazier Farms and continued their family legacy of bringing passion for food and regard for good health to the community, and aim to bring that to their customers.

Frazier Farms has been a natural grocer since 1971. They’ve built their reputation on customer service, selling only the highest quality natural and organic products available anywhere at prices that represent great value. Whether you come in for certified natural grown beef, hearty whole grain baked goods, or a

sandwich from the deli, they want you to be delighted. The Frazier family understands that without quality there is no value. That’s the family’s standard and your family deserves nothing less.

From the Frazier Farms family to yours, good health, good food, good friends. Get your natural groceries at 1820 Oceanside Blvd. Oceanside, CA 92054. See specials or order from the deli at www.frazierfarmsmarket.com or give them a call at (760) 429-2092.

GOJUMP OCEANSIDE

GoJump was born in Oceanside, CA with the overriding ambition to give the safest Skydiving experiences in the most wonderful locations. After successfully completing 25,000 Tandem Skydives in Oceanside annually, while receiving excellent customer feedback, GoJump decided to spread their wings. The company now has locations in Oceanside, Las Vegas and Hawaii where they offer the same great adventure to all their valued clients. Today, GoJump has completed 145,621+ jumps at their three locations.

GoJump Oceanside loves to skydive. Their experienced, energetic staff aims to provide the best for themselves and their clients. With brand new, purpose built skydiving aircrafts, the latest in parachute technology and the perfect locations serving San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Hawaii, jumping with GoJump is a wonderful experience – once you have tasted it, you will look up into the sky as if you’ve fallen in love for the first time.

GoJump is located at 480 Airport Rd. Oceanside, CA 92058. For additional information, check out their website at www.gojump-america.com/oceanside or by calling (702) 900-4000.

LIGHTHOUSE FISH AND SEAFOOD MARKET AND OYSTER BAR & GRILL

Open since summer 2010, Lighthouse Oyster Bar and Grill is proudly owned and operated by the Lopez and Faith Families. Award winning Executive Chef Luis Lopez Sr. is the backbone to the operation, creating a unique blend of Mexican/American seafood cuisine. His 30+ years of experience and passion for food has led him to create a menu that satisfies all. Their ability to provide a “feel at home” environment at their harbor location has led them to be a local favorite in the Oceanside community. Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill offers fresh fish straight from local fishermen and the Great Pacific, a nice variety of half-shelled, delicious oysters, savory steaks and tender meats that pair perfectly with surf fair

FRAZIER

and delectable desserts and cakes that are a perfect finish to a perfect meal.

In 2015, Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill expanded their harbor presence to offer a full service Seafood Market directly below their oyster bar. The Market receives fresh fish daily, ranging from local Halibut, Seabass, Swordfish, Yellowtail, Mahi Mahi, Ono, and Ahi Tuna. Fresh Ahi Poke and Ceviche are made on site daily. The location also sells Clams, Mussels, and Oysters both locally caught and from the East Coast.

Lighthouse Fish and Seafood Market and Oyster Bar & Grill serve as the perfect dine-in or take-out experience. See their full menu at www.lighthouseoceanside.com or give them a call at (760) 433-1900.

MISSION MARKETPLACE

Mission Marketplace is conveniently located on the corner of College Boulevard and Highway 76 in the City of Oceanside, California. Mission Marketplace is a onestop experience for shopping, dining, events and more! With a variety of specialty stores, financial services and health services, there’s no need to go anywhere else.

Mission Marketplace is serving the community with passion and pride. Besides shopping, services, and even a movie theater, community members and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of events and giveaways hosted by Mission Marketplace. Their location is more than just a shopping center. But, an opportunity for you to bring your family and friends to enjoy everything they have to offer.

Mission Marketplace is located at 471 College Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92057. Learn more on their offerings including community events at www. missionmarketplaceoceanside.com.

RIDE O'SIDE

Ride O’side’s goal is to provide safe, eco-friendly transportation throughout Oceanside’s downtown district including the strand and harbor. Their scooters were designed for active, adventurous and eco-

conscious adults and are 100% electric. All rentals include a large 20Ah battery to ensure all day fun.

Ride O’side also has fat tire scooters! The 18”x 9.5” fat tire and the front hydraulic shock provide an unbelievably smooth ride, and the front and back electronic hydraulic disc brakes give you plenty of stopping power. You can also customize your fat tire scooter with a surfboard rack or a golf bag holder. Aside from creating special moments for birthdays, bachelor/ette parties, anniversaries and more, Ride O’side also provides a variety of group tours for special events. Ride O’side is located at the Northeast Corner of Cleveland & Pierview 306 N Cleveland St Oceanside, CA 92054. Learn more on their website at www.rideoside.com or give them a call at 760-583-8737.

San Luis Rey Bakery and Restaurant has been pleasing customers with delicious cakes for every occasion, fresh bread, scrumptious treats and tasty Mexican food for over 50 years. Their delicious Mexican dishes are made fresh for you every day. Your cravings will be satisfied whether you want breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert. Sit back and enjoy the most authentic Mexican restaurant experience in Oceanside. Dine in, take out, or deliver through DoorDash, GrubHub, Postmates, or UberEats.

San Luis Bakery also specializes in cakes for every occasion! Make your special day the sweetest with perfectly designed and decadently delicious cakes that will leave a lasting impression. Choose from their wide variety of designs or call to create a custom cake. San Luis Bakery even made the Chambers 125th anniversary cake! Take a look at some of their most recent designs on their cakes page at www.sanluisreybakery.com/cakes.

San Luis Rey Bakery and Restaurant is located at 490 N El Camino Real, Oceanside, CA 92058. Check out their full menu at www.sanluisreybakery.com or give them a call at 760-433-7242.

SAN LUIS REY BAKERY AND RESTAURANT

NORTH COASTAL PREVENTION COALITION TURNS 30

Reducing the harm of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drug use

remains critical

Written by Aaron Byzak President, North Coastal Prevention Coalition

2023 will mark 30 years since the North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC) was formed by a dedicated group of volunteers from Oceanside, (and originally called the Oceanside Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition). I first met them at their 10-year anniversary event held at the Flying Bridge while working for a local State Senator. I was drawn both personally and professionally to the collaborative approach to prevent youth substance use, and I’ve served on the Board of Directors of NCPC since 2003. Having grown up in the chaos of drug-using parents, I made the choice to never partake in alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs, and at 45 years old, my resolution is stronger than ever.

There is both good news and bad news when it comes to youth substance use today. First the good news –despite headlines implying otherwise, the number of teens reporting NO use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other drugs has actually been increasing, with over 2/3 of high school juniors in our region reporting no use in their lifetime.

media and electronic payment, substances are a few clicks away, typcially from friends or associates, and may be laced with fentanyl. The days of ‘youthful experimentation’ have turned deadly.

In 2020, NCPC adopted the ‘One Choice’ initiative based on national research conducted by the Institute for Behavior and Health. After analyzing data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) for teens ages 12-17, they documented that teens who use any one substance were significantly more likely to use another. “One Choice” was created to have a clear, consistent, and accurate prevention message for youth – the choice to avoid ALL substance use is possible, promotes healthy brain development, and dramatically reduces ones chance of developing a substance use disorder.

In addition to being the recipients of prevention messages, NCPC helps young people become advocates. One of the most impactful aspects of serving on NCPC’s Board is engaging with young people who are not simply making a choice to be drug free, but who are actively involved in improving their communities.

Every April 20, NCPC sponsors a 420 Remix –Celebration of Sober and Drug Free Life Choices PSA contest for middle and high school students in San Diego County. This provides young people an opportunity to inspire their peers to avoid substance use. Winners have been featured on local billboards and in movie theaters.

The bad news – and unfortunately tragic news for too many families – is that drugs have never been as deadly and easy to get as they are today. With social

NCPC teen volunteers have also hosted community forums, written op-eds to local media outlets, spoken at council meetings, and been interviewed by media outlets.

But youth grow up in the environment that adults create. As the push to legalize and commercialize

“One Choice” was created to have a clear, consistent, and accurate prevention message for youth – the choice to avoid ALL substance use is possible, promotes healthy brain development, and dramatically reduces ones chance of developing a substance use disorder.

various psychoactive substances continues to flourish, we risk rolling back decades of progress. The declines in youth substance use took collective action, commitment, resources and agreement that preventing youth access to alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other illicit drugs was a priority.

Until we look upstream to ensure policies don’t lead young people down a path of easy access to substances, including marijuana, I fear we will continue to suffer senseless tragedies.

For more information about North Coastal Prevention Coalition visit: https:// northcoastalpreventioncoalition.org.

Dorothy’s Military has been the trusted source for all uniform services for Camp Pendleton and North County San Diego's military for generations. You can trust our family owned and operated business to care for your uniform properly, and efficiently. It is truly our honor to serve you. •

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Oceanside High School ‘Be the Resistance’ Club members recognized for their positive social norms campaign posters: Hannah Charlice Catchillar, Arlette Dieguez and Paulina Vargas

DOWNTOWN OCEANSIDE TO HOST THE 1ST ANNUAL SOCAL ASIAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER FESTIVAL

In launch of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May, multiple non-profit organizations have come together to create the First Annual Southern California Asian & Pacific Islander Festival in the city of Oceanside. The festival will be an all-day event on April 29 at the Civic Center, and free to the public. The Artist Alley will be activated as a part of the experience along with various nearby small businesses.

Events to include two main performance stages, martial arts demonstrations, a family cultural activity center by Studio ACE, various ethnic food and artisan vendors, a

literacy program by the Oceanside Public Library, and an interactive experience by the Oceanside Museum of Art. In respect for our senior population, the event will have a quiet shaded lounge area to provide rest and refreshment.

A collaborative initiative begun last year from both Kevin Shin and Ilima Martinez, the vision was simple; to educate Southern California of the beautiful cultures and traditions that originated from the Asian and Pacific Islander communities.

The festival’s mission is an expansion of Umeke, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with a

vision to educate local communities of Hawaiian culture through cross-cultural learning, along with working towards the equity and advancement of all marginalized and underserved populations. The founder, Ilima Kam Martinez, established Kuhai Halau

The festival’s mission is an expansion of Umeke, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with a vision to educate local communities of Hawaiian culture through cross-cultural learning, along with working towards the equity and advancement of all marginalized and underserved populations.

O’Ilima (KHOI) in Vista, where she teaches about the Hawaiian culture primarily in the performance art of Hula. In addition to classes held at the hālau, she has served the Native Hawaiian community as the 2018 Director of Youth Enrichment and 2019 Director of Culture at Hui O Hawai'i of San Diego and a current member of ‘Ahahui Kiwila Hawai’i O San Diego Civic Club.

Kevin Shin is the owner of The Switchboard Restaurant in Downtown Oceanside, and saw an outpouring of support as he opened his HawaiianKorean fusion establishment in what could be considered the worst possible time, 2020.

As a member of the Executive Committee for the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, Shin has felt compelled to return the favor of generosity by giving back to the community. “As a Marine Corps veteran, we all have a deep-seated love for the City of Oceanside. There is no better place to hold this event where we can look out to the vast Pacific and know there is family here and on the other side.” Shin also serves as a board member of KOCT and participates with the various community organizations.

“As we enter 2023, this decade has presented so many challenges throughout our communities. That being said, we seem to be in a time where there is an incredible need to remember the traditions of our cultures, share a sense of humanity to a visceral level, and find commonality even when experiencing differences,” says Shin.

Oceanside is home to one of California’s fourteen cultural districts. With an eclectic and emerging art scene and a diverse population, the city of Oceanside is perfectly situated in between metropolitan San Diego and the Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside County regions. This is an ideal location for this event as almost every Asian and Pacific Islander nation is on the side of the Ocean.

TAKE ACTION!

The Green Oceanside team is gearing up for another fun, family friendly Earth Month celebration. From virtual challenges to in-person volunteer events, and corporate team building opportunities, let’s make this a memorable and sustainable Earth Month!

Win Prizes in the April Green Oceanside Eco-Challenges:

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter at @cityofoceanside and take the challenge on your own, or with your staff team and families each week to win cool prizes! Prizes include: Green Oceanside reusable water bottles, fanny packs, gift cards to local establishments, and more!

• April 3rd: Go reusable! Show us what (water bottles, straws, tote bags, containers, etc.) you use to keep disposables out of the landfill. The more the better!

• April 10th: Walk, bike, or carpool in an electric vehicle to get around town!

• April 17th: Join Creek to Bay Cleanup to help keep Oceanside beautiful or do a solo cleanup in your own neighborhood.

• April 24th: Sign up for the WaterSmart portal at Oceanside. watersmart.com and check for leaks inside or outside your home!

To enter, post your photo or reel and tag @cityofoceanside or email it to greenoceanside@oceansidecda.org for a prize.

Earth Day

Fun Zone at the Sunset Market:

Join us at the Earth Day Sunset Market on Thursday, April 20 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more about our sustainability efforts and enjoy games, activities, and prizes all centered around protecting our planet and community.

Snag a free Green Oceanside T-shirt or Stay Classy Fanny Pack!

Join the Annual Creek to Bay Cleanup:

On Saturday, April 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. celebrate Earth Day by joining the annual

Creek to Bay Cleanup, the largest environmental cleanup in San Diego County! Cleanup events are easy, fun, and impactful team building corporate day of service experiences. In partnership with I Love a Clean San Diego, Green Oceanside will host multiple cleanup locations along Loma Alta and Buena Vista Creek. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to participate and registration for Oceanside locations will open April 1st. Visit www.cleansd. org for more information.

For more information on the City’s Green Oceanside events and programs visit greenoceanside.org.

local non-profits

BLUE STAR FAMILIES

Blue Star Families empowers families to thrive as they serve and is committed to strengthening military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create vibrant communities of mutual support.

Maggie Meza, Blue Star Families San Diego Region Chapter Director, facilitates engagement opportunities that create cross-sectoral dialogue between military and civilian communities, which can help foster awareness and understanding of military lifestyle challenges.

Maggie connects military and Veteran families to beautiful Southern California parks and beaches through the Outdoor Explorer for All Program, provides Caregivers an opportunity to connect with one another through Caregivers Encouraging Caregivers events, brings awareness of local resources to military spouses through monthly Coffee

Connections, and encourages families to enjoy the Arts through the Blue Star Museum Program. Their Chapter volunteers are the heart of their work. Through their dedication, Blue Star Families is able to host food drives aboard Camp Pendleton through their Nourish the Service Program, participate in local Resource Fairs, and support military family days and back to school events. This year, three of their volunteers received the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

As a military or Veteran family, you should feel not only welcome, but also a genuine sense of belonging in your community. No matter where you are on your journey, let Blue Star Families serve as your home away from home.

Learn more about Blue Star Families at bluestarfam.org.

NORTH

COASTAL

PREVENTION COALITION

The North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC) is a non-profit organization that began in 1993 as the Oceanside Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition. NCPC is governed by a 9 member Board of Directors, and has partnered with Vista Community Clinic (VCC) since 1998 to manage grants, contracts and staffing. NCPC receives funding from the County of San Diego, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), and private donations to support its vision and mission. NCPC is housed within VCC’s Health Promotion Center which includes a variety of programs to improve community health.

North Coastal Prevention Coalition’s mission is to reduce the harm of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs in the cities of Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Vista through community action, education, support, and collaboration. Their vision is to create a connected community where youth are alcohol and drug-free, make responsible choices and reach their full potential. Based on data collected from local school surveys, it remains clear that alcohol, marijuana and tobacco are the primary drugs of choice for adolescents. For this reason, NCPC remains committed to changing social norms and policies that contribute to youth access to alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana.

Coalition efforts include the support of “social host” ordinances to reduce underage drinking at home parties, enforcement of regulations to eliminate the sale of drug paraphernalia, and tobacco retail licensing to hold businesses accountable for tobacco sales to minors. North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC) has adopted the ‘One Choice’ Initiative in the advocacy and work they do in the community. The ‘One Choice’ movement focuses on health and safety, no use of any alcohol, nicotine, marijuana and other drugs for youth under 21. NCPC has launched a three-part video series directed towards teens, parents/guardians and teachers/youth advisors to help promote the ‘One Choice’ movement. For more information about One Choice Prevention please visit onechoiceprevention. org.

NCPC meets the second Thursday of each month from 8:00 – 9:00 am. In addition to monthly meetings, NCPC sponsors various events including community forums and the annual emerging issues also require resident involvement. Learn more about NCPC and get involved at northcoastalpreventioncoalition.org.

SAN DIEGO/NORTH COUNTY FOOD BANK

The San Diego Food Bank and its North County Food Bank chapter comprise the largest hunger-relief organization in San Diego County. Last year, the Food Bank distributed 44 million pounds of food, and the Food Bank serves 400,000 people per month countywide.

By partnering with more than 500 nonprofit partners with feeding programs, the Food Bank provides nutritious food to individuals and families in need. This includes working-poor families, low-income military families, children living in poverty, fixedincome seniors and the unemployed.

The Food Bank has a variety of programs to help provide a safety net for all who may be experiencing food insecurity, including their Food 4 Kids Backpack Program. This program provides weekend food packages to more than 3,000 elementary school students from low-

income households every month who are at risk of hunger over the weekend when free school meals are unavailable. Each bag contains enough food to see the students through the weekend.

In addition to addressing hunger, the Food Bank is also a registered Diaper Bank through the National Diaper Bank Network to address diaper insecurity. The Food Bank’s Diaper Bank Program provides emergency diapers to working-poor parents. Last year, the Food Bank distributed 7.6 million diapers countywide through a network of 81 partners. By providing diapers to families in need, they are helping parents stay in work to provide for their children.

If you are interested in supporting the Food Bank and its programs, please visit SanDiegoFoodBank.org for ways to get involved and help feed hope in the San Diego community.

OPERATION HOPE NORTH COUNTY

Founded in 2003, Operation HOPE-North County (OHNC) aims to offer a safe, caring, and supportive environment to families with children and single women experiencing homelessness as they rebuild their lives and reclaim independence. Rising housing costs and inflation continue to have a significant impact on low-income families and those on the verge of homelessness, an issue that is continuing to grow in our region. Last fiscal year OHNC provided shelter to 188 individuals and 62% of that population were children. Nearly 20% of the population served last year at the shelter were Oceanside residents

In response to the many needs in the community, OHNC established aftercare services to assist shelter graduates and the community at-large. Their Pantry of HOPE program was created for graduates to ensure the sustainability of housing security to avoid reentry into homelessness by allowing them to come on a weekly basis to access fresh produce, proteins, dry goods, dairy, toiletries, hygiene products, and infant and toddler related supplies as well as case management and resources. This program has grown by nearly 400% since opening. OHNC also operates the New Beginnings Boutique. This unique space allows for families in the shelter, graduate families, and community members to have access to clothing and household items. The boutique creates a space for our clients to “shop” with dignity at no charge to clients.

As OHNC celebrates 20 years of service to the community, this year they are hosting their First Annual Swing Into Hope Golf Tournament in March. In partnership with North Coast Church’s Serve Your City Project they will be hosting a ribbon cutting event in June to celebrate their renovated shelter building. OHNC will also be hosting a ribbon cutting event in August for their renovated pantry and boutique spaces. In September, they will be hosting their 20 Year Anniversary Gala.

Learn more about Operation HOPE-North County by visiting operationhopeshelter.org.

PRO KIDS, FIRST TEE SAN DIEGO

Pro Kids was founded in 1994 by former AFL/NFL player Ernest H. Wright, Sr. and a group of community leaders, who saw the game of golf as a way to help underserved youth develop the character and life skills required to find success in school and in life. In 2012, a second location was opened in Oceanside. Ernie passed in 2007, but his passion for helping kids succeed in life continues. Since 1994, Pro Kids has seen more than 25,000 kids’ lives transformed through values intrinsic to the game of golf – honesty, confidence, and respect.

Pro Kids is part of First Tee, an international youth development organization founded by the PGA and other associations to advance the game of golf. First Tee modeled much of the founding programming after Pro Kids and in 1998, Pro Kids became a charter member therefore adopting the name Pro Kids, First Tee – San Diego. The mission of Pro Kids, First Tee –San Diego is to challenge underserved youth to excel in life by promoting character development, life skills,

and values through education and the game of golf. Through a set of programs that combine sport, study, and service, they provide youth grades 2-12 with access to opportunities that set them on a path to success in adulthood. Since its inception in 1999, more than $2.5 million in scholarships has been awarded to Pro Kids Scholars, many of whom are the first in their family to pursue higher education.

Pro Kids serves as a welcoming home to kids across San Diego with primary program locations in City Heights and Oceanside. They believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential – to become Pro Kids. 45% of their enrolled youth receive income-based or military status scholarships covering program membership fees, strengthening their promise to provide impactful educational and enrichment services to San Diego’s most vulnerable and challenged youth.

Learn more about Pro Kids, First Tee – San Diego at thefirstteesandiego.org.

VANC

Veterans Association of North County, (VANC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created and operated by Veterans as a one-stop resource center for all active-duty military, Veterans, and their families. They seek to honor and support those who have served our country, bridging the past, present, and future. VANC is a vibrant gathering place in North San Diego County, where all Veterans, active-duty military, and their families can reach out for help and community. VANC seeks to be a model for other organizations that serve the military community. VANC operates day to day primarily through volunteer support, with more than 8000 donated hours during 2022. Four of these volunteers are Veteran Service Reprentatives providing expert assistance in filing and navigating complex VA disability claims.

VANC serves local veterans and active duty service personal. In 2022 VANC provided monthly food distribution and dispersed nearly 500,000 diapers to over 34,000 personnel, 91% going to active duty members and their families. VANC has over 200 training programs for transiting service members, host massive toy drives and recently completed the construction/ landscaping of an Honor Wall and community event space. Currently, VANC has its sights on increasing its ability to close the gap of active duty service members in need of assistance; reduce its carbon footprint through solar initiatives and expand our annual golf tournament on Camp Pendleton scheduled for September 22, 2023.

Our generous local community continues to fund VANC. Remarkably, none of our services receives any state or federal assistance. Go to www.vanc.me for more details about VANC.

Chamber Leaders Provide Networking Training for Oceanside Students

In March, staff and volunteer leaders from the Oceanside Chamber partnered with the GEAR UP Oceanside program to provide high school students with training in networking. The hour-long session, hosted by Chamber staffers Scott Ashton and Porsche Copeland, along with Ambassadors Robyn Carlson, Gina Roman and Anthony Anselmo, provided students with an overview of how to effectively build a network as they approach their next steps after high school. Students rotated through five different stations and received coaching on a various networking related topics at each station. Topics covered included Preparation, Listening Skills, How to Share about

Yourself, Benefits of Having a Strong Network, and Building Long-Term Relationships.

A follow-up session was planned to allow the students to implement what they learned in a “live” networking session with local business leaders.

LATEST SOCAL WORKFORCE VIDEOS

HIGHLIGHT CAREERS IN FOOD SERVICES, CHILDCARE AND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRIES

The Chamber recently added several news videos to the regional workforce collaboration, www. SOCALWorkforce.org. SOCAL is a collaborative program between education and industry created by

Tri-City Medical Center, the San Diego North Economic Development Council and Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, Greater Escondido, San Marcos and Encinitas Chambers of Commerce. The vision is to give middle school, high school, post-secondary students and transitioning adults an opportunity to gain insights into career pathways, while allowing businesses and local organizations to participate in these students’ career exploration. The newest Oceanside videos feature team members from North County Roastery, Children’s Paradise and Mission Auto Care discussing their careers in the food service industry, child care and automotive. For information about

highlighting your business’ career opportunities on SOCALWorkforce.org, please contact Scott Ashton at 760-722-1534.

CHAMBER RECOGNIZES FOUR OF OCEANSIDE’S RISING STARS

At its February Rising Star Student of the Month breakfast, the Chamber had the opportunity to recognize four of Oceanside’s amazing high school seniors. The Rising Star Program aims to champion students that have overcome significant challenges in their lives while managing to keep on track with their education. The Chamber honors one high school senior each month from each of our area high schools at a breakfast event. The students are each given the opportunity to share their stories of resilience and persistence and will be invited to apply for scholarships through the Oceanside Chamber Foundation. Pictured above (from left to right)

Fofogaolepapa “Foga” Lolomatauama of El Camino High School, Angelique Paulson of Pacific View Charter School, Mayor Esther Sanchez, City of Oceanside, MyDuyen “Athena” Ngo of Oceanside High School, Ana Jarillo Sanchez of Surfside Academy. Currently the scholarship pool is close to $30,000. To contribute to the scholarship fund or learn more about the program, please visit www.RisingStarOceanside.com.

Mottino Family YMCA: Celebrates a Milestone of Service

The Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA has been a cornerstone of the Oceanside and Vista communities for nearly five decades. Established in 1973, the Santa Margarita Family YMCA was designated as an extension of the YMCA of San Diego County. Despite moving and operating at various locations over the years, the Y never wavered in its mission to serve North County.

Thanks to a significant capital gift in 2001, the Santa Margarita YMCA became the Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA and for the last 20 years has provided over 1 million experiences via membership and programs to the local community.

Today the Mottino YMCA is looking to the future and expanding its services to serve even more families and seniors in the community. This includes doubling their camp program, offering free-swimming lessons, distributing produce boxes for neighbors and redesigning their onsite childcare program.

“The way we go about delivering the mission, which calls us to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all, has evolved to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our communities,” said executive director Roby Trada.

A recent Community Needs Assessment identified financial insecurities, the need for subsidized care programs, health gaps and educational disparities as prevalent issues in Oceanside households. To address these needs, the Y is launching the Mottino Preschool, which will provide local childcare services. They are also working on expanding affordable childcare offerings as well as innovative senior and youth programs to address social isolation and mental health issues.

At the Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA, the staff believes in the power of dreaming big, and they are excited to see what the next 20 years will bring. They invite the business community to join them to create a larger impact and become a catalyst for change in the region.

A COLLECTIVE OF LIKE-MINDED INDIVIDUALS WITH ONE COMMON GOAL : TO DEVELOP BOTH PROFESSIONALLY + PERSONALLY

Why I love working in Oceanside: I love the people that come to the Y and helping those that might be intimidated with the fitness equipment. Showing that we are here to help them reach their goals in a way that they feel confident. It’s getting over the first hurdle of asking for help, and once that happens just recognizing them by their name and watching them go through the equipment with ease. That’s what makes working in Oceanside my love.

Cesareo Gomez

I love Oceanside for its stunning beaches and friendly community. The Mottino YMCA allows me to serve as a catalyst of positive change by providing access to health and wellness resources and programs that empower individuals and families to live happier and healthier lives.

Roby Trada

I have been in Oceanside for 17 years and what I love most is that there are so many diverse areas from the beach to the farmland with pockets of homes in between. The unique collection of people is what makes us a rich community of arts, culture, and experiences. I love Oceanside and all it has to offer.

Susie Ferrer

I love Oceanside because I was born and raised here, and all my family is here. I love this small community beach town, the diversity between us and the pride the locals have for this city. These are some of the many reasons why I want to continue to live here for years to come.

Tyra Darrow

I love Oceanside because Oceanside is like a small community. It has the soul and vibe that other coastal communities don’t have.

Melissa Rodriguez

Life is better connected! I love the Oceanside community because I love being a part of something where I can help connect our children, youth, and families with each other and with resources. I have never felt this inspired and connected before becoming a part of the Mottino Family YMCA in Oceanside.

Brittany La Mantia

I love Oceanside because we are all about community. Young men open doors for you, people smile and say good morning, women drop off food for someone who is sick, we share with the homeless, and do so much more. Oceanside is old-fashioned, yet very State of the Art. We have new restaurants, brand new athletic facilities, entertainment venues for the whole family,

Our City has so much to offer! Our friends at the Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA share why they love where they live and their passion for our community.

a 5-star rated Community College, and of course a beach known for world-class surfing. I’m fortunate to live in paradise!

cuisine; Oceanside has become my home. I truly cannot imagine living anywhere else besides Oceanside.

Gage Daniel

To learn more about the Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA, please visit www.symcasd.org/locations/ joe-and-mary-mottino-family-ymca

economic development update

GENENTECH’S NEW BIOLOGICS MANUFACTURING FACILITY

Genentech is investing $450 million in advanced manufacturing capabilities at its Oceanside campus, with. plans to add 150 local, full-time jobs. The new 80,000 sq. ft. biologic facility will be the first in the Roche global manufacturing network designed specifically for the fast and sustainable commercial production of biologics for smaller patient populations, including rare diseases and personalized medicines.

NEW MULTI-TENANT COMMERCIAL PROJECT

Construction has started on a 4,900 sq. ft., threetenant retail building located at 4126 Vista Way in the Pacific Coast Plaza Shopping Center. The building is divided into two 1,380 sq. ft. spaces for future retail tenants and 2,140 SF of space for a Starbucks with a drive-thru.

NOW OPEN

Heritage Barbecue and Beer Co. are open at 2002 S. Coast Hwy. in South Oceanside, serving Southern California craft barbecue and beer. Their San Juan Capistrano location is a 2021 Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand awardee.

Get Back Necklaces recently opened at 616 S. Coast Hwy. in Downtown Oceanside, making the Original St. Christopher Surf Pendants, necklaces, bracelets, rings, and accessories.

Genentech’s Oceanside facility, which was established in 2005, currently has seven buildings on 60 acres at 1 Antibody Way in the Ocean Ranch Corporate Centre. Genentech was founded more than 40 years ago, and is a leading biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious and lifethreatening medical conditions. For additional information about the company, please visit www. gene.com.

THE FLATS BY FABRIC INVESTMENTS

Construction has begun on The Flats, a boutique mixed-use project located at 1935 S. Coast Hwy. in South Oceanside. The project consists of 20 apartments with 2,775 SF of retail on the ground floor.

A1 Golf Carts recently moved into 1401 Oceanside Blvd. in the Loma Alta Station.

Ignite Coffee Company has opened at 605 Mission Ave. in Downtown Oceanside, serving coffee and pastries.

1022 Cafe & Gelateria has opened at 602 Mission Ave. in Downtown Oceanside, serving homemade artisan gelato, coffee, and pastries.

Pita Guys is now open at 4111 Oceanside Blvd., Ste 102, in the Del Oro Marketplace shopping center, serving family-style Middle Eastern food.

Saigon Soup recently opened at 4160 Oceanside Blvd. in the Plaza Rancho del Oro shopping center, serving authentic Vietnamese food.

Heritage SKTBDS is now open at 1019 South Coast Hwy, offering a selection of skateboards, clothing, and accessories.

Battle Lab Airsoft recently opened at 510 Oceanside Blvd. in the Seaside Crossroads center, offering a selection of airsoft guns, gear and accessories.

Fridas Taqueria is open at 2011 Mission Ave., serving tacos, mulitas, burritos, and quesatacos with pollo asado, birria, carnitas, and carne asada.

COMING SOON

Finney’s Crafthouse is coming soon to 212 N. Tremont St. in Downtown Oceanside, formally the location of the Cabo Grill. Finney’s Crafthouse features gastropub-style food.

Alohana Acai Bowl at 212 N. Coast Hwy. in Downtown Oceanside.

L&L Hawaiian Barbeque is coming soon to 510 Oceanside Blvd. in the Seaside Crossroads Center.

OYP Volunteers at North County Food Bank

OYP VOLUNTEERS AT NORTH COUNTY FOOD BANK

As part of their mission, to connect young professionals who are looking to grow their social circles, expand their network, and get involved in their community, the Oceanside Young Professionals (OYP) gathered at North County Food Bank in Vista to get involved and give back to their community. Together the group helped assemble 552 bags and 800lbs of produce to be distributed to local school districts as well as Brother Benno’s, a local foundation who - with help from volunteers and donations - provides hot meals and shelter to those in need. For more information on joining the Oceanside Young Professionals or to see a list of upcoming OYP events, visit OsideYoungPros.com.

As part of their mission, to connect young professionals who are looking to grow their social circles, expand their network, and get involved in their community, the Oceanside Young Professionals (OYP) gathered at North County Food Bank in Vista to get involved and give back to their community. Together the group helped assemble 552 bags and 800lbs of produce to be distributed to local school districts as well as Brother Benno’s, a local foundation who – with help from volunteers and donations – provides hot meals and shelter to those in need. For more information on joining the Oceanside Young Professionals or to see a list of upcoming OYP events, visit OsideYoungPros.com.

The Original Kebab Shop at 224 North Coast Hwy. in the Pier View Plaza

Flip Flop Shops at 206-216 N. Coast Hwy. in the Pier View Plaza in Downtown Oceanside.

Urbane Cafe at 2183 Vista Way, Ste B1, in the Pacific Coast Plaza.

Tengu Ramen at 2183 Vista Way, Ste B2, in the Pacific Coast Plaza.

CHAMBER TO HONOR LOCAL MILITARY FAMILIES

On Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 11 AM – 4 PM  the Oceanside Chamber will bring the business community and area residents together to provide a day of recognition to all active-duty military stationed on Marine Corps Base Camp Joseph H. Pendleton and nearby military bases. Thousands of active-duty military, their family and dependents are treated to a day of free food, entertainment and a fun zone for kids.  Whether you are a civilian who wants to show your gratitude and enjoy a day of fun, or a member of the military family, this is a day for you to show your appreciation or to be appreciated!

The event will be held at the Oceanside Pier Amphitheater.

This event is open to the public, and food and fun zone tickets available for purchase. The fun begins at 11 AM and lasts until 4 PM. The day consists of

activities including a children’s fun zone with inflatable jumps, rock climbing wall, kid’s crafts and face painting. All Active-Duty Military and their dependents must bring an Active Duty Military ID Card to get unlimited activities and a free lunch. More info at www.oceansideoperationappreciation.com.

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce

928 N. Coast Highway

Oceanside, CA 92054

125 Years

Emergency Care Emergency Care

tricitymed.org

Elevating your experience.

Tri-City Medical Center's Emergency Room remodel is reimagining the patient experiencing by improving the appearance, flow and function of this important resource

Construction begins Spring 2023.