NATIONAL CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INNOVATIVELY SUPPORTS LOCAL BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITY

By Robin A. Williams

Meet Brian Clapper, a lifelong resident, and Volunteer for the National City Chamber of Commerce. He strongly believes that business is the foundation of the community, with the Chamber acting as its hub. Brian joined the Chamber upon encouragement from his good friends and has been a dedicated member for 23 years. He started as a regular member, then joined the Board, and now serves as the Chairman for the second time.

One of Brian’s fondest memories was when he became friends with the folks from the 32 street naval bases. Being the son of a Navy veteran, he has great respect for the Navy and is proud to be part of the ‘Tribute Salute to the Navy’ event, which is held annually. Brian has a particular admiration for Captain Roy Love, and his involvement with the Chamber provided him with this opportunity.

Brian shared that the Chamber sponsors the prestigious ‘Centurion Award’ for public servants who have done an exceptional job. The National School District of National City selects the deserving recipient, and a ‘Breakfast Awards Banquet’ is organized in their honor. The Chairman presents the award to the winner, or the recipient determines who presents the award.

For Brian, the most important aspect of the Chamber is the ‘Value to Membership.’ Just being a member is not enough; networking opportunities like mixers and other community outreach events are what make the Chamber successful. Brian enjoys getting everyone to mingle and encourages donations from businesses to spotlight their services and products. The Business Resource Group (BRG) ensures that all members are given time to speak and promote their businesses by featuring them in the Chamber’s communications.

Membership is valued at the Chamber, and Brian says that they step in to support members who are in trouble by giving them connections that can help bring in business and exposure. All members are given equal opportunities to shine. Brian has an impressive record of community service, including serving as the Board President of the National School. He takes pride in his active role in hiring the first woman Superintendent, Dr. Lee Angelia Brady, in the history of the National City School District. Brian also took the opportunity to connect a young woman who wanted to coach youths with Dr. Brady, giving her the best contact to fulfill her dream.

Overall, Brian Clapper’s dedication to the National City Chamber of Commerce and the community is commendable. He believes in the Chamber’s mission and works tirelessly to ensure that it provides value to its members.

Q: How long have you lived in National City?

A: 71 years with my wife Vilma.

Q: What’s your occupation?

A: Retired

Q: What’s the best part about living in your area?

A: I love this community.

Q: What’s the best reason to live here?

A: This is home.

Q: What would you change about where you live if you could?

A: More jobs for the residents.

Q: What shows, movies, streaming series are you watching?

A: Family Feud, Jeopardy.

Q: What percentage of your weekly transportation is?

A: walking 20%/ biking 10%/ driving 70%

Q: What’s your favorite lunch place?

A: Tita’s Kitchen

Q: What advice do you have for visitors?

A: We have great restaurants and stores.

Q: Do you have a favorite area event?

A: Padres Games

Q: What’s your best insider tip for your neighborhood?

A: Always help to better your community.

Q: What are one thing people would be surprised to find out about you?

A: I am one of thirteen children!

Q: Who is your personal Hero?

A: Pete Rose

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: Keep up the good work!

Q: If you weren’t in your current occupation – what would you be?

A: A motivational speaker.

Q: Please describe your ideal local weekend.

A: Serving my city and volunteering in youth sports.

David Grepe is the founder of a travel agency that he started 6 years ago. When he was advised to network through the chamber of commerce, he was eager to participate. He began volunteering and soon caught the attention of the CEO at the time, Jacqueline Reynosa, who offered him a new position. David’s favorite part of his job is being able to make important connections for chamber members with organizations they had been looking to connect with. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the chamber was greatly affected, and David knew he needed to do something extra to support it and bring it back to being a positive resource for the community. He worked hard to keep small businesses thriving and to educate the community about the economic development that occurs within it. David believes that networking and building healthy relationships with people in business is vital to the success of any business. He credits the chamber as a perfect place to incubate those ideals and values.

David believes that keeping jobs local, keeping taxes in the city, and keeping businesses thriving are important indicators of a good chamber of commerce. He is excited to be celebrating the chamber’s 113-anniversary annual dinner, knowing that he played an integral part in bringing it back to a better place. David knows that a crisis is not the time to give up but to continue working smarter to get things going in a positive way.

David Grepe Project Manager National

City Chamber of Commerce

P: 619-477-9339

901 National City Blvd, National City, nationalcitychamber.org / www.discovernationalcity.org