Rocky Qualin Padre Dam Municipal Water District 619.920.3089
Barbara Ryan Santee School District – 619.258.2300
James Sly East County Economic Development Council 619.729.1413
Eddie Vandiver Sportsplex USA – 619.334.1000
Pam White City of Santee – 619.258.4100 x223
Sarah Wood Allegiance Heating & Air Conditioning 619.244.4584
Shaylin Fagerwold Expressions Dance & Movement Center 619.490.7000
@SanteeChamber @SanteeChamber
@SanteeChamber @SanteeChamber
HELLO SANTEE!
After more than 11 incredible years with the Santee Chamber of Commerce, I find myself writing these words with a heart full of gratitude and emotion. As I step away from my role as President/CEO, I want to express just how deeply honored I have been to serve this remarkable community.
What began as a job soon became the most unique and fulfilling role of my life. Being at the helm of this organization allowed me the extraordinary privilege of connecting with countless business owners, civic leaders, volunteers, and residents—all of whom have helped shape the spirit of Santee. I’ve had the joy of watching new businesses open their doors, long-standing establishments evolve, and entire neighborhoods grow with pride and purpose. For me, this meant many things. On the surface, it meant having a career that I genuinely loved and cared about. Beneath the surface, it meant working with a team of staff and volunteers I admire, respect and trust as they’ve taken on the burdens of their own business worlds in addition to mine, turning setbacks into strengths and always pushing forward in unison.
Together, we’ve celebrated milestones and navigated challenges. From ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking ceremonies to some of my favorite community events like the Santee Street Fair, Veterans Appreciation initiatives, and educational programs— we’ve worked hand in hand to build a stronger, more thriving local economy and an even tighter-knit community. These memories will remain with me always.
To every supporter of the Chamber—past, present, and future— thank you. Our work would not be possible without your belief in the mission and your investment in our collective success. Your support has been the cornerstone of this organization’s impact and growth. To the many members I’ve had the pleasure of working with, thank you for your passion, your partnership, and your trust. To our community stakeholders and partners in progress, thank you for your collaboration and vision. And to the people of Santee—thank you for supporting me, encouraging me, and walking alongside me throughout this journey.
Please give a warm welcome to my successor, Amanda Daugherty; I know she will do big things (see page 29 for more). I am so grateful my next journey is with a well-established community partner which will allow for some overlap in the near future. Thank you again, I will always be proud to call Santee my hometown.
Publisher Santee Chamber of Commerce
Editor
Kristen Dare
Graphic Design
Nick Ossey
Committee Members
Kristen Dare
Jennae Gonzalez
Susie Parks
Andie Reyes
Contributing Writers
Curtis Anderson
Kristen Dare
Jennae Gonzalez
Jake Houlihan
John Olsen
Susie Parks
Andie Reyes
Contributing Photographers
Nikki Hildebrand Photography
Scott Lagace
Lynda Marrokal
Jon Mottola | CreativVisuals
Printer
Advantage Color Graphics
- Kristen Dare, ACE
CHAIR'S MESSAGE
Hello Santee!
On behalf of the Board of Directors, it’s my privilege to share an important moment in our Chamber’s journey. After 11 years of outstanding leadership, Kristen Dare is completing her service as President and CEO of the Santee Chamber.
Kristen has been a passionate advocate for our city and local businesses. Her heart for Santee and tireless dedication have helped shape the Chamber into the strong, community-focused organization it is today. We are deeply grateful for her faithful service and lasting impact.
Thank You to our Strategic Partners
As we thank Kristen, we are also excited to welcome Amanda Daugherty as our new President and CEO. Amanda brings fresh vision and enthusiasm, and we’re confident she will build on our strong foundation with the full support of our dedicated and collaborative Board of Directors.
Looking ahead, we’re especially excited about what summer holds in Santee! One of our favorite annual events—the Santee Street Fair—is just around the corner, and we hope to see all of you there. It’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate our community, support local vendors, and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Santee.
We’re also gearing up for a series of grand opening celebrations and networking mixers, offering a relaxed environment to reconnect with colleagues, make new connections, and strengthen the ties that keep our business community thriving.
Thank you again, Kristen, for your years of outstanding leadership. And welcome, Amanda—we're excited to walk into this next chapter with you at the helm.
Here’s to a great summer and an even greater future. See you around Santee!
- Susie Parks
Santee Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Board
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” ~Seneca
Community Conveners
Community Champions
Community Catalysts
A LEGACY PAVED IN FAITH AND FAMILY
BY ANDIE REYES
In a city known for its strong roots and even stronger values, Superior Asphalt has quietly paved its way into the heart of Santee—not just with machines and manpower, but with integrity, consistency, and a legacy deeply rooted in faith and family. For more than 50 years, this family-run business has laid more than just roads— it’s laid the foundation for what it means to serve a community with purpose. Today, under the leadership of brothers-in-law Jake Houlihan and Curtis Anderson, that legacy continues stronger than ever.
The story begins with Jake’s grandfather, Cyril Houlihan, who founded the company in 1969. With a bobtail dump truck, one hired hand, and a simple dream, Cyril began paving residential driveways throughout Santee. For decades, the company relied solely on word of mouth to grow—earning trust one driveway, one handshake, and one satisfied customer at a time. His wife, Shirley, was the matriarch of the family—an unwavering support system who helped raise their children and supported the entire Houlihan family as the business took root and grew.
Soon, Cyril’s sons, Ronnie and Paul, joined the crew and learned the trade by working alongside their father. Cyril was known for doing things the right way, and his reputation was one of trust, quality, and kindness. That legacy would soon be passed on.
In 2001, Cyril tragically passed away after suffering a fall. His son Ronnie—Jake’s father and Curtis’s fatherin-law—stepped in to carry on the family business. But he didn’t just maintain what was built—he expanded it. "Ron had a different vision for where it should go," Curtis says. "He set goals to go after bigger projects, commercial road work—and he was able to grow the business beyond what it had achieved at that point." Under Ronnie’s leadership, Superior Asphalt evolved into a full-service commercial paving operation, tackling larger contracts and more complex jobs across the region. Even after a devastating electrical fire in 2015, the company endured. Ronnie not only grew the business but made sure its structure and reputation were solid—laying the groundwork for a smooth transition to the next generation.
When Ronnie retired in 2023 and moved to Idaho, he left the company in the trusted hands of Jake and Curtis, who officially took over in January 2024. Jake was a natural successor—he grew up immersed in the business and began working summers in the field as a teen, learning the trade firsthand from his father and grandfather. For Curtis, the transition carried a different kind of weight. It took a tremendous amount of trust from Ronnie to hand over the company—not just to his son, but to his son-in-law as well. The result wasn’t just a shift in leadership; it was a powerful act of faith in their shared vision and commitment to carrying the family legacy forward.
“Curtis married into the family, and my dad trusted him with everything,” Jake says. “That meant a lot.”
Although Curtis never got the chance to meet Cyril, his presence is still deeply felt. “To this day, I’ve never run into one person who knew him that didn’t have the nicest things to say,” Jake adds. “Not one bad word—just that he was the greatest guy. We communicate.”
Still based out of the same yard —the original lot Cyril purchased decades ago—Superior Asphalt has grown to a team of nine and now runs with a fleet that includes a paver, multiple rollers, and skid steers. The business has scaled, but the values have stayed the same.
Jake leads the execution side of operations, managing crews, overseeing job sites, and ensuring that every project meets the company’s high standards. Curtis focuses on project estimating and business development, helping shape the company’s direction and growth. “We bring different strengths to the table,” Curtis says. “Jake knows the field inside and out, and I bring the business vision—and we trust each other completely.”
That trust is rooted in shared values. Both men put faith and family first. They’re active members at Foothills Christian Church and committed fathers and husbands. Jake’s wife, Emma, is a nurse he first met as a child. Years later, after Emma returned home during the pandemic while taking a break from college, the two reconnected as adults and began their relationship. Her love and constant encouragement have grounded Jake, especially as he balances the demands of running a business and raising a family. They married in May 2022 and now have a lively baby boy named Jackson. “He’s already full of energy,” Jake laughs. “I’m not going to push him into taking over the asphalt business, but I’ll definitely support him if he wants to be part of it someday.”
Curtis adds with a smile, “Madison might just beat him to it,” noting that his oldest is already curious about what her dad and uncle do.
Curtis and his wife Katie met at church in 2009. Today, Katie owns Salon Thrive in Santee and manages their busy household with kids Madison (9), Hudson (6), and Tyson (2). “Katie’s been running a business while raising three kids for over a decade,” Curtis says. “She’s the rock that keeps us thriving.”
Superior offers a range of services, from residential overlays to commercial paving and airport asphalt work. One of their most rewarding moments came from participating in a special project of relocating the first commercial hangar at the San Diego International Airport. “We got to be a part of history,” Jake says. “They moved an entire hangar and reassembled it—and we paved the parking lot. That kind of opportunity doesn’t come around often.” Their approach to every project is always custom. “Every job is different,” Curtis explains. “We look at what it really needs—grading, grinding, sealing—and bid it responsibly.”
They also stress the importance of maintenance. “Seal coating is vital to the upkeep and longevity of the asphalt,” Curtis explains. “It’s like putting wax on a car—it adds a layer of protection. We always recommend doing it every three to five years to help preserve the work we do.”
So what sets them apart? For Jake and Curtis, it’s all about connection. “Our customer service is personal,” Curtis says. “We communicate, we care, and we believe success is a by-product of healthy relationships”
Jake adds, “We’re not just laying asphalt—we’re building trust. Every job is a reflection of our family’s name, and that means something to us.”
Margie, had nothing but praise for her experience with Superior Asphalt.
“This company was BEYOND 5 stars. Not only did they provide excellent pricing, but they were professional, courteous, and kind during the entire process. Ours was a complicated private road with 14 homes, so during this project, I got to know them a bit and was so impressed by their work ethic and honesty. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone.”
Outside of work, Curtis serves on the Santee Chamber Board of Directors and is Chair of the Membership Committee. He also coaches his son’s Santee National Little League team, and both he and Jake regularly support Youth Venture Teen Centers, including sponsoring and helping organize their annual golf tournament.
“Be patient with yourself, with others, and in all areas of life,” Curtis says. “Not everyone is meant for college— and that’s okay. There’s so much value in trades like construction, plumbing, or firefighting. We want to support kids who are drawn to real, honest work and help them discover what makes them come alive.”
Jake agrees. “When I was 15, I didn’t think I’d end up here. But once I realized the opportunity, and what it meant to my family, I wanted to be part of it.”
When Jake and Curtis took over in 2024, one of the biggest changes they made was embracing technology.
“When we stepped in, it was still being run like an old-school business,” Curtis says. They launched a website, built an online presence, and began advertising for the first time ever. The result? A fresh identity that honors the legacy while helping the company reach more clients and grow strategically.
While the business may evolve and the jobs may grow, the foundation will always stay the same.
“Every day, I wake up knowing I’m carrying on my family’s legacy,” Jake says. “It’s a blessing.”
-AndieReyes
SATURDAY MAY 24 | 10AM-6PM
RIVERVIEW PARKWAY
CARNIVAL RIDES - RETAIL VENDORS
LOCAL PERFORMANCES - FOOD & BEVERAGE
DOG FRIENDLY 21+ BEER GARDEN WITH DJ
SUMMER STARTS HERE
DIVE INTO THE 15TH ANNUAL SANTEE STREET FAIR WITH SAN DIEGO POOLS
There’s something about Santee that just feels like summer. For many locals, the unofficial kickoff to summer happens on a single day when thousands of residents pour into the heart of town: the Santee Street Fair.
This year marks a major milestone—the 15th annual Santee Street Fair, happening Saturday, May 25 on Riverview Parkway. What started as a humble celebration of community has grown into East County’s largest single-day festival, welcoming over 30,000 attendees with live music, a craft beer garden, hundreds of vendor booths, a wide variety of food, and a kids’ zone packed with activities. “It’s a celebration of everything that makes Santee special,” says Kristen Dare, CEO of the Santee Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the event. “We’re proud to bring families, friends, and businesses together each year in a way that feels both exciting and uniquely local.”
A NEW SPLASH THIS YEAR: SAN DIEGO POOLS AS TITLE SPONSOR
Adding an extra splash of excitement to this year’s fair is the event’s title sponsor, San Diego Pools. If the street fair is Santee’s way of saying “summer is here,” then San Diego Pools is how many local families make summer last. The company has been building custom in-ground swimming pools throughout the region for over 40 years, helping homeowners create their own personal paradise right in their backyards.
A family-owned business from the beginning, San Diego Pools brings decades of experience, award-winning designs, and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. For many Santee residents, their pool isn’t just a place to cool off—it’s a centerpiece for birthday parties, weekend gatherings, and making memories with loved ones.
“We love being a part of the Santee Street Fair this year because we know how much this community values quality time together,” says Josh Holman, Vice President at San Diego Pools. “That’s what we’re all about — building spaces where families can relax, reconnect, and enjoy Southern California living to the fullest.”
The connection between the pool company and the street fair feels like a natural fit. Both embody the spirit of summer fun, and both serve as trusted anchors for families looking to enjoy more of what life has to offer.
SHOP SANTEE
Welcome to the Santee Chamber! Be sure to Shop Santee and support some of our newest Santee Chamber members.
Medrano & Associates
PIMedrano.com
Mike Medrano is a licensed Private Investigator in San Diego with over 33 years of experience in the legal and investigative fields. A native San Diegan and former Federal Police Officer for the Department of Defense, Mike offers unmatched local expertise and discretion. Since founding Medrano & Associates in 2010, he has specialized in surveillance, particularly for child custody, visitation cases, infidelity investigation and worker compensation fraud. Having served over 35,000 legal papers and worked cases involving high-profile individuals, he uses top-tier hidden cameras, GPS devices, and covert vehicles for precise, undetectable investigations. Dedicated to privacy, honest communication, and excellence, Mike provides trusted investigative services across San Diego County.
AJ Tota with Thrivent Financial connect.thrivent.com/aj-tota
A.J. Tota serves as a Financial Advisor with Thrivent in Santee, California, where he is committed to helping individuals and families achieve financial clarity and confidence. Licensed in both California and Oregon, A.J. partners with clients to develop customized financial strategies that align with their personal values and long-term goals. As part of Thrivent—a membership-owned, not-for-profit financial services organization—he emphasizes wise financial stewardship and inspires generosity toward meaningful causes
Expert Plumbing and Repipe sdrepipe.com
Expert Plumbing and Repipe proudly serves San Diego County with over 15 years of industry experience in residential plumbing solutions. Specializing in copper and PEX repiping, water heaters, gas lines, sewer lines, and water filtration systems, their team is committed to delivering honest, precise, and high-quality service on every project.
Available 24/7, Expert Plumbing and Repipe prioritizes customer satisfaction and offers free, no-obligation quotes to help homeowners maintain safe and efficient plumbing systems.
Tint Tech Window Tinting
tinttechwindowtint.com
Tint Tech Window Tint specializes in professional window tinting services for automotive, residential, and commercial clients. Known for using high-quality materials and expert installation techniques, Tint Tech enhances comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency through customized tint solutions. Their team is committed to delivering outstanding service and long-lasting results, helping customers protect their interiors, reduce glare, and improve overall aesthetics.
Macy's macys.com
Macy’s Santee Trolley Square offers a curated selection of apparel, beauty products, accessories, and a dedicated Toys "R" Us section for children’s toys. As Macy’s first small-format store in California, it’s designed to provide a personalized shopping experience with services like Buy Online Pick Up InStore, curbside pickup, and personal styling. The store also actively engages with the local community by hosting pop-up events in its lobby, showcasing regional artisans and small businesses. Macy’s Santee combines convenience, community connections, and a unique shopping experience, bringing a fresh retail approach to the area.
1 of 100
THAT’S A WRAP!
Districts Nationally Recognized
Recognized by Harvard University’s Center for Education Policy Research and Stanford’s Educational Opportunity Project (2025), Santee School District is one of only 100 districts nationwide demonstrating higher academic achievement in reading and mathematics compared to prepandemic levels.
6,100 Students Promoting 8th Graders
650 Employees 898 Students Enrolled in Expanded Learning Programs 1,151
2.5 Million Minutes
Speech Therapy Minutes of Specialized Academic Instruction
767,896
126,325 Occupational Therapy Minutes
53,883 Adapted Physical Education Minutes
2,900
Hearing Screenings
1,200
Teacher Collaboration Hours
*Numbers included in this graphic are approximate.
3,100
Multilingual Students Reclassified as Fluent in English >50 Vision and Color Screenings
The Board of Education and District leadership are committed to strategic financial management that supports student achievement, engaging learning environments, staff development, and overall well-being — ensuring every dollar advances our vision of providing an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people. Days of School 180
22 Board Meetings
80 Board Advisory Committee Members
1 Million
and Benefits
- Books and Supplies Free Meals Served
in estimated savings for families
2,040
Bags
1,300
MY HOMETOWN
ERIC TERAN OF ARCANE PLUMBING: PROUD TO CALL SANTEE HOME
For Eric Teran, owner of Arcane Plumbing Service and Repair, Santee isn’t just where he lives—it’s where his heart is. He’s raising his kids here, running his business, and soaking in the little moments that make this town feel like home.
“I grew up in East County, and now I get to watch my own kids grow up here,” Eric says. “There’s just something about Santee—the way people look out for each other, the pride in the community—it means a lot to me.”
Eric’s business is a reflection of that same down-to-earth, peoplefirst mindset. When someone calls Arcane Plumbing, they don’t get a receptionist—they get Eric. “It’s me answering the phone, figuring out the issue, and getting it fixed. I like it that way. You build real trust when people know exactly who they’re working with.”
His favorite part of the job? Helping people he grew up with. “Joining the Santee Chamber was a turning point. I ran into old teachers, classmates, even neighbors—and now I’m helping them in a whole new way. It’s a cool full-circle feeling.”
When he’s not working, Eric loves getting outdoors with his family—hiking the local hills, walking the dogs, or just enjoying time together. One tradition that sticks out is watching the Fourth of July fireworks. “I remember seeing them at Cuyamaca as a kid. Now we watch them from the backyard with friends and family. It’s one of those simple traditions that makes life here so special.”
His advice to anyone starting out? Keep it real. “Be consistent. Be honest. Treat people right. In a place like Santee, people remember how you make them feel. If you do good work and care about your community, it all comes back around.”
Eric’s go-to local spot is Coffee Corner—“They know my order before I even say it,” he laughs—but he admits he’s probably keeping In-N-Out in business, too. And when it comes to local businesses, he has big respect for other tradespeople hustling every day to take care of neighbors and keep things running. Asked to describe Santee in one word? Eric doesn’t hesitate: “Home. It’s where everything important in my life comes together.”
– Andie Reyes Santee Chamber of Commerce
Do More Recreating in Santee
CONNECTED
Total Altruism Project (T.A.P)
Exciting news! The Total Altruism Project is making it easier to keep our parks clean! On April 12th, T.A.P and the City of Santee installed litter grabbers with attached nets at stations in Big Rock Park, so you can easily pick up trash while you enjoy your walk in the park. Together, we can keep Santee beautiful!
Learn more at www.totalaltruismproject.org.
Brush 5 Joins The Fleet
We’re proud to unveil our new Brush Rig, Brush 5! This addition ensures that Santee will always have a dedicated brush rig available, even when our other unit is assisting neighboring communities through our mutual aid program. The purchase of Brush 5 was made possible thanks to a generous grant from the San Diego Regional Fire Foundation and the San Diego River Conservancy. We’re grateful for their support in strengthening our wildfire response capabilities!
Wondering how to get a pothole filled, a streetlight fixed, or graffiti removed? Use the MySanteeCA app on your Apple or Android device to submit a service request! The app provides access to the service requests, SanteeTV, special events and more!
Land Use Element Update
We want to hear from you! Hearing from the people who live in Santee is important to create a Land Use Element that works for everyone. We want to hear your ideas, and there are many ways you can learn more and share your thoughts! Together, we can create a future for Santee that reflects our values, meets our needs, and keeps our community thriving.
5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE
Whether they’re building new spaces, creating careers, or helping neighbors, these contractors represent the best of local business. The Santee Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate these members and all who help build our hometown—one beam, bolt, and blueprint at a time.
1. Check out a Redevelopment Project in a Well-Known Space
TC Construction Company, located on Prospect Avenue in Santee, has been instrumental in various infrastructure projects, contributing significantly to the city's development including the recent redevelopment of the Santee School Site and future home to Sedano Auto Group. Be sure to drive by and see the progress being made on Mission Gorge Road.
2. Update your Work Space with Eye-Catching Windows or Doors
La Mesa Glass, situated on Railroad Avenue in, that’s right, Santee, specializes in glass installations and has been a strategic partner in numerous community projects throughout the county. Sunset Finish Door & Trim can help change your space with a door upgrade you never knew you needed until you see their work!
3. Give your Home a Modern Electrical and/or Solar Upgrade
Raceway Electric & Solar, a second-generation Santee business since 1993, can help you focus on electrical and solar PV projects for your home. Their commitment to sustainable energy solutions positions them as leaders in eco-friendly practices among local contractors. It’s never too early to install permanent holiday lighting that can be used yearround!
4. Give your Outdoor Living Space a Summer Refresh
Check out Del Sol Pavers on Prospect Avenue for some inspiration on how to revitalize your outdoor spaces and create bold, entertainment spaces and curb appeal with their helpful team of hardscape experts. Order materials from RCP Block & Brick to get them going or venture into some DIY projects with one of their fire pit kits.
5. Cool Down Indoors with a New or or Tuned-Up HVAC System
Beat the heat with a new or revitalized system from longtime Santee business Allegiance Heating & Air. With free online estimates and financing options, this second-generation, family-owned operation will keep you cool through our tough summer heatwaves. Need a walk-in cooler or freezer or specialized wine refrigeration to upgrade your space? Paradigm Mechanical can get you there!
SANTEE SCOOP
Hi, I’m John Olsen, a longtime resident and business advocate of Santee. As an active member of the Santee Chamber I often showcase upcoming development projects and events around town.
Be sure to follow me for more on Facebook.com/SanteeUpdate
As a real estate agent, my clients often ask me for referrals to reliable trades professionals to help repair, renovate, or prepare their homes for sale. Here are a few trusted experts I’ve recommended time and againwith excellent results:
Fresh Coast Heating and Air Conditioning - 619-647-3407
David Quevedo, CEO of Fresh Coast Heating and Air Conditioning, brings years of experience in both residential and commercial HVAC. His team handles everything from routine maintenance to full system replacements. If you want dependable service from a highly rated local business, give David at Fresh Coast a call.
Quality Garage Doors, Inc. - 619-562-7223
Paul and Mike launched All-Pro Quality Garage Doors in 1989 and have been serving the community with outstanding workmanship ever since. Their dedication to quality and customer service has earned them multiple accolades, including the Angie’s List "Super Service" Award seven years in a row. Whether it’s repairs or a newinstallation, All-Pro is a name you can trust.
For over 30 years, Steve has counted on referrals from satisfied customers to grow his family business. He provides emergency drain repair and cleaning, as and all other residential and commercial plumbing services. Steve and his crew provide professional quality workmanship, and strive for 100% customer satisfaction on every job.
If you or someone you know is feeling stuck with a tired rental, inherited a home that is stressing them out, or are simply looking for a quick, hassle-free sale, I would love to help.
Visit my website (iBuySantee.com), or give me a call or text, and we’ll make a plan that works for you.
619.855.1151
AMANDA DAUGHERTY APPOINTED AS NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO OF SANTEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Board of Directors of the Santee Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Amanda Daugherty as its new President and CEO, effective Wednesday, May 14th.
Amanda brings more than 15 years of executive leadership experience in nonprofit and business development, with a strong focus on community outreach and Chamber of Commerce advancement. Her expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, and building collaborative partnerships makes her exceptionally well-positioned to guide the Chamber in achieving its mission.
As President and CEO, Amanda will lead the Chamber in its ongoing commitment to "creating opportunities to build successful businesses while enhancing economic and community development for Santee." Her leadership style, grounded in innovation, inclusivity, and service, aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s vision for continued growth and regional impact.
Amanda previously served with the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce, where she was instrumental in launching highimpact initiatives such as the Women in Business Program and the Spotlight Seminars and Podcast series. These programs significantly strengthened member engagement and delivered valuable resources to the local business community.
Amanda holds a Juris Doctorate from Western Sierra School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University. She also continues to serve as a liaison with the Mother Goose Parade Board, championing youth programs and cultural traditions in East County.
Amanda shared her excitement for the role and the community:
“After attending last week’s Heroes Celebration, it became even clearer to me just how incredibly supportive and close-knit the Santee business community is. It was such a joy to witness the way this community comes together to celebrate one another’s growth, success, and service. That spirit of camaraderie and pride is something very special, and I am beyond proud to be entrusted with the role of representing such an inspiring and unified city.”
– Susie Parks, Chair of the Board
From Couch Mode to Stage Mode: Discover the Joy of Music at Staump Music School!
Ever catch your kids stuck in “couch mode”—endlessly swiping YouTube shorts, glued to video games, or scrolling aimlessly? Staump Music School in Santee offers a vibrant, rewarding alternative: shifting gears from couch mode to stage mode!
At Staump Music School, music education means more than just hitting the right notes. It’s about building confidence, sparking creativity, and forming lasting friendships. Our student-centered approach turns lessons into adventures, helping kids ages 4–17 swap screen time for stage time. Harvard and MIT studies show music boosts brain development, memory, focus, and academic success. The University of Vermont found it reduces anxiety, improves emotional regulation, and builds resilience. Our interactive lessons support both cognitive and emotional growth in a positive, hands-on environment.
In our popular Rock Band Classes, kids develop social skills through teamwork, communication, and leadership—while having a blast performing with peers. Playing instruments also enhances motor skills and coordination.
From live shows to professional recording at Staump Studios, students don’t just learn notes—they thrive. Ready to trade the screen for the stage? Enroll now and get a free month of lessons to kick off the journey!
– Tim Staump, Staump Music School
BUSINESS AWARDS NIGHT
In March we held our annual Business Awards Night at Sycuan Casino Resort. It's our largest celebration of members each year, our biggest networking opportunity, and a "fan favorite" when it comes to some of our signature events. We honor our Strategic Partners and the winners of our Santee's Favorites program, surprise a winner with the Chair Award (congratulations Karl Burris of Live Life Physiotherapy), and showcase our Business of the Year (Awesome Family Chiropractic).
This year, I was humbled and grateful for the break in our regular program as staff and board members snuck in a moment for me, after my announcement to step down as CEO after 11 years with the Chamber. A quick thank you to those who helped me celebrate and wished me well, especially Jennae Gonzalez on our staff and my two longtime committee members and friends (pictured), Eddie Vandiver and Mike Clinkenbeard. For more pictures from the evening, check out the images captured by CreativVisuals on our Facebook Page.
The 2024 Santee's Favorites Winners Include:
BUSINESS AWARDS NIGHT
SOCIALIZING SANTEE - SYCUAN CASINO RESORT
Business of the Year | Awesome Family Chiropractic
In February, we were thrilled to announce Awesome Family Chiropractic as they were named the 2024 Business of the Year by the Santee Chamber of Commerce!
With a passion for personalized care and a deep commitment to our community, Awesome Family Chiropractic has made a lasting impact in Santee over the past two years. Their dedication to helping individuals and families achieve better health is evident in their customized chiropractic solutions and their active involvement beyond the clinic. From sponsoring and participating in beloved local events like the Santee Street Fair, Holiday Tree Lighting, and Brews and Bites, to supporting local schools at the Santee School District Health Fair, their generosity knows no bounds. Their appreciation for our military community shines through their veterans and active-duty discounts, as well as their continued donations to the Veterans Golf Tournament.
At Awesome Family Chiropractic, better health is their mission, and Santee is their home. We are honored to recognize their dedication and celebrate their wellearned title as Santee’s 2024 Business of the Year! Thank you to Dr. Dawn for acknowledging “Dr. Awesome” and nominating their team for this prestigious award.
Person of the Year | John Olsen
Every year, the Santee Chamber of Commerce honors an individual who embodies dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to our community. As we reflect on last year, we are proud to name John Olsen as our 2024 Person of the Year.
John is more than just a familiar face in Santee. He has spent years fostering connections, supporting local businesses, and keeping the pulse on what makes our city thrive. His passion for Santee is evident in everything he does, whether it’s through his real estate career, his extensive volunteer efforts, or his engaging podcast, now entering its fifth season.
On April 24th, we celebrated John at our annual Santee Heroes Celebration at Off Broadway Live, where we recognized his contributions and honored his well-deserved title as Santee’s 2024 Person of the Year. John, thank you for your years of service, your endless enthusiasm, and your deep love for Santee. Our community is better because of you, and we are thrilled to celebrate you this year!
SANTEE HEROE'S CELEBRATION
In April, the Santee Chamber proudly hosted its annual Santee Heroes Celebration, an evening dedicated to recognizing outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Santee community through leadership, service, and dedication. The event was graciously hosted by Steve and Jennifer Rolf at their charming venue, Off Broadway Live.
This year’s ceremony honored twelve local heroes across a variety of sectors, including education, public safety, military, healthcare, and civic engagement. Each recipient was celebrated for their contributions that go above and beyond, representing the spirit of service that defines the Santee community.
John Olsen Person of the Year
Lee Wilson Community Hero
Elana Levens-Craig Community Hero
Adam Smosna First Responder Hero
Nick Koons Law Enforcement Hero
Michelle Chase Education Hero
Andrea Sims Education Hero
Shayla Tropiano Education Hero
Mike Aiken Military Hero
Amy Wade Civic Service Hero
Dean Velasco Civic Service Hero
Dr. Stacey L. Coleman Healthcare Hero
The celebration featured heartfelt moments, personal tributes, and emotional speeches, including a special recognition of outgoing Interim President/ CEO Kristen Dare. Honorees Dean Velasco and John Olsen took time during the ceremony to express their appreciation for Kristen’s leadership and dedication to the Chamber and the community at large. This annual event continues to serve as a meaningful reminder of the extraordinary people who shape Santee every day. It was a night full of gratitude, connection, and celebration — one that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
