A publication of the Santee Chamber of Commerce WINTER | 2024
INSIDE:
Healing Santee: Dr. Sarah Wilkes of Barker Chiropractic Leads with Care and Expertise
2024 Chamber Officers
Susie Parks, Chair of the Board Coffee Corner – 619.368.5525
Daniel Buksa, Chair Elect Mission Realty Group – 619.368.8371
Curtis Anderson, 1st Vice Chair
Superior Asphalt San Diego 619.456.7146
Darcy Fagerwold, 2nd Vice Chair Expressions Dance & Movement Center 619.490.7000
Mike Aiken, Secretary Carlton Oaks Golf – 619.540.3295
Melissa Dombo, Treasurer & Past Chair Raceway Electric & Solar – 619.596.1918
2024 Office Staff
Kristen Dare, ACE President / CEO
Jennae Gonzalez Operations Manager
Andie Reyes Operations & Membership Coordinator
Bethany Cook Bookkeeper
Nick Ossey Magazine Graphic Designer
Tina Firestone Retention Specialist
2024 Chamber Directors
Karl Burris Live Life Physiotherapy – 619.800.8173
Greg Gagnon The UPS Store – 619.249.6657
Bryan Koci Whissel Realty – 619.244.0339
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
Tim Staump Staump Music School – 619.888.7445
Pam White City of Santee – 619.258.4100 x223
Sarah Wood Allegiance Heating & Air Conditioning 619.244.4584
Stephanie Wooding Best Day Ever Weddings + Events 858.522.0504
@SanteeChamber @SanteeChamber
@SanteeChamber @SanteeChamber
HELLO SANTEE!
As we move into the winter season, I want to take a moment to recognize a sector that plays a vital role in all thriving communities, especially ours: healthcare. From small chiropractic offices to major medical facilities, and everything in between, our healthcare businesses offer essential services, jobs, and economic strength to our town.
In Santee, we are fortunate to have a diverse range of healthcare providers. Our dental and orthodontic offices, family practices, vision centers, and wellness clinics are all throughout our shopping centers and corners of our community. Each provides personalized, hands-on care to meet the daily health needs of our residents. Businesses like Barker Chiropractic (page 8), showcase the unique care and attention boutique providers bring to our town. These practitioners not only prioritize our health but also invest in their patients' overall well-being and support local causes.
Publisher Santee Chamber of Commerce
Editor
Kristen Dare
Graphic Design
Nick Ossey
Committee Members
Larger facilities, like Sharp Rees-Stealy, operated by one our region’s hospital networks, offer access to advanced care, ranging from pediatric care, to dermatology, to diabetes education to specialized treatments for Lymphedema care. Their impact extends beyond immediate care, as they employ hundreds of people, support local vendors, and attract businesses that rely on a healthy workforce.
Healthcare businesses are often unsung heroes in the economy. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep us well and ensure our city has a stable workforce. At the Santee Chamber, we are committed to supporting these providers, advocating for policies that help them thrive, and encouraging the development of even more healthcare options in Santee. This winter, we honor and celebrate all our local healthcare providers. Thank you for all you do to keep Santee strong and healthy!
-
Kristen Dare,
ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce, CEO
Kristen Dare
Jennae Gonzalez
Susie Parks
Andie Reyes
Contributing Writers
Kristen Dare
Jennae Gonzalez
John Olsen
Susie Parks
Dr. Sarah Wilkes, B.S., D.C.
Contributing Photographers
Scott Lagace
Lynda Marrokal
Jon Mottola | CreativVisuals
Printer
Advantage Color Graphics
Hello Santee!
CHAIR'S MESSAGE
As we enter this holiday season, our hearts and minds naturally turn toward compassion and giving, reflecting on the blessings we have and the ways in which we can extend that goodwill to others. The Santee community really shines during this time of year! Everywhere you look there are fun donation boxes, toy drives, food drives and bicycle collections. One year, a local family was having a rough time to the point of homelessness. Our Coffee Corner customers, staff, and Chamber friends came together to make sure they had clothes, food, a place to stay and even donated a reliable car!! Santee social media pages are filled with individuals reaching out to offer help to their neighbors. I am so proud to be part of this amazing community!
Speaking of giving back, do you know that the entire Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors are volunteers? Completing this first year as Chair, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to work with this incredible team of individuals. My fellow board members are dedicated volunteers who contribute their time, energy, and expertise to create growth and collaboration opportunities for our Santee businesses. You can find them at every event~networking, mentoring, organizing, setting up, and even on trash duty. This role has been both challenging and inspiring, and it’s been a privilege to work alongside such passionate and committed individuals who share a common vision for our organization’s future. Together, we've made significant strides, and I look forward to continuing our work with the same spirit of unity and dedication in 2025.
I wish all of you a meaningful holiday season!
See you around Santee,
- Susie Parks
Santee Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Board
"Happiness is not so much in having as sharing. We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ~ Norman MacEwen
Thank You to our Strategic Partners
Community Catalysts
Community Conveners
Community Champions
DR. SARAH HAS YOUR BACK!
BY DR. SARAH WILKES, B.S., D.C.
That’s me! Hi, I’m Dr. Sarah Wilkes, a local pediatric and prenatal family chiropractor here in Santee, CA. I’m proud to give back to the community where I was born and raised, helping families thrive through holistic, nervous system-based care. Health & wellness is a journey with many ups and downs and, believe it or not, your nervous system plays a gigantic part! This is where I nerd out and can’t help but spread the word about nervous system based, chiropractic care and how it can benefit every single person, no matter your age or where you are at on your wellness journey!
Let’s take it back to the beginning… I didn’t always know about chiropractic care or what it was. I was raised going to the traditional medical doctors when I needed to for checkups, immunizations, and along the way, for chronic ear infections leading to 14 ear surgeries, all while enduring the longterm effects of antibiotics! As a young adult, I was working as a bank teller at a local credit union and I met Dr. David K Barker, the founder of Barker Chiropractic Clinic. He mentioned needing another chiropractic assistant and I eagerly jumped on the opportunity to shift gears to an office receptionist position. To say that “God had a plan for me” is an understatement. This is where my
life changed. I got to witness what I call “chiropractic miracles”, where patients were coming in sad and leaving happy, coming in with pain and leaving relieved, coming in diagnosed infertile and under regular chiropractic care, conceiving a baby! That was my lightbulb moment- I wanted to change people’s lives the way that Dr. Barker had. At 21 years old, I moved away from my hometown and family to pursue my Bachelors of Science degree and then my Doctorate of Chiropractic degree, not worried about the mound of student loan debt I would incur because it would allow me to live my newfound passion! I also completed my post-graduate certifications specializing in perinatal chiropractic and pediatrics to expand the range of people I am able to treat. With my foundation and continued support from Dr. Barker the entire way, I was invited back to utilize my skills, knowledge and determination to change the world, one nervous system at a time!
Upon my return, I was greeted by Dr. Barker and his longtime, established patients, some that already knew me from five years prior as the friendly face they saw when they walked into the office. Remember when I mentioned God‘s plan for me? Imagine this reality- I graduated in April of 2014, Dr. Barker got diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer in May, just one month later. His decline was rapid and we celebrated his 74th birthday and his 39th year in practice in September and then he passed away on December 16, 2014. So, all in one year, at 26 years old, God’s plan for me became clear- honor Dr. Barker and his legacy and continue his commitment to this amazing Santee community. God continued to provide me direction on how to be the best doctor I can be, while learning how to run a business and be the best boss like Dr. Barker was to me. It was only with the loving support from my dad, family and now husband that carried me through the toughest time in my journey- helping me adjust to my new reality, no pun intended.
With the immense pressure of continuing his art and passion for wellness, I knew I had big shoes to fill, literally size 12 shoes, haha! Learning from him and his practice style and techniques, his approach to each patient and their individual needs proved to be successful. So, why change a thing? I was given the right tools, training and guidance to continue the same incredible treatment to those patients even after he passed then was determined to help even more of my community by focusing on treating the entire family- mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and especially the kiddos and babies!
You may ask yourself what is chiropractic all about? What can it help with? Why would a newborn baby need a chiropractor? Is it only for back pain and car accidents? These are all valid questions I’m happy to chat your ear off about! To start- I often respond with “If you have teeth, you have a dentist that you see regularly. If you have a spine, you have a chiropractor that you see regularly.” We all have a brain and spinal cord. It is the most protected organ in the entire body, more protected than your heart, your lungs, and any other organ! Your brain talks to your body and your body talks to your brain via the spinal cord. The spinal column, consisting of 24 vertebrae stacked on top of each other, protect this communication pathway so that we can breathe, move, talk, digest, and so much more. When any part of the spinal column or any specific vertebrae is displaced slightly or misaligned at all, the communication of your brain to every other system is negatively impactedyou won’t digest nutrients as well, you won’t move symmetrically, your ability to fight pathogens and viruses will weaken, your reproductive system can go wonky, your sleep can become inconsistent, and your metabolism can slowwwww. I can keep going with more incredible reasons to protect and care for your spine but I’ll spare you!
Now that I’ve told you what can happen from a spinal misalignment, let me share with you a few of the incredible successes and miracles that have happened while treating patients in my community. Did you know that gentle chiropractic care can help expectant mothers with prenatal wellness and support which may include round ligament pain, pelvic floor strengthening, hip pressure, back pain and all things pregnancy related! It also vastly helps with the postpartum journey, especially hormone balance and pelvic floor healing! In addition, chiropractic adjustments also help mamas and babies with breastfeeding and latching support! I also get to help babies with reflux and constipation on a daily basis! I’m even known to be the local “PO*P doctor”! These are just a few reasons families are seeking pediatric and prenatal certified chiropractors like me!
[I’ve had the privilege of providing chiropractic adjustments to mamas in active labor and even adjusting the sweetest little newborns spines just minutes old- allowing them to adapt to this wild world immediately.] More conditions that can benefit from a proper functioning nervous system and spinal column are sleep disturbances (zero to 100 years old), growing pains, ADD, ADHD, ASD, ear infections, headaches and migraines, vertigo, TMJ dysfunction, joint and muscle pain and even BREECH BABY PRESENTATIONS. To expand on that, a properly aligned spine and pelvis of a pregnant mama is crucial for her adaptation to her growing body! Along with the consistent hip pressure and pain and to the relaxation of the all the pelvic ligaments, and much more. In terms of her sweet baby’s position, my extra training allows me to confidently assess and adjust hercreating a symmetrical and aligned pelvis which is a perfectly round shaped bowl, inviting a baby’s head into the innate head-down position for birth. Pretty rad, huh?
I can go on and on for 1,700 more hours on why chiropractic rocks and how honored I am to serve you all; however, those I helped would say, “you’re going to learn what GOOD feels like, and you never want to go back”! And as I always say, “In order to give 100%, you need to feel 100%.” This translates to every role you play- parenthood, relationships and your mission in life! I’d be honored to help you achieve your 100%. I’m Dr. Sarah and it’s been a pleasure sharing my story with you.
Visit Barker Chiropractic at 9308 Carlton Hills Boulevard
Monday: 9 AM–6 PM
Tuesday: 6:30 AM–12 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–6 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 9 AM–2 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed – Dr. Sarah Wilkes, B.S., D.C.
EMPOWERING FUTURES:
GUHSD’S HEALTH CAREER PATHWAYS PROGRAM DRIVES LOCAL HEALTHCARE INNOVATION
The Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) celebrates the growth and success of its Health Career Pathways program, an initiative addressing the healthcare needs of San Diego’s East County. With substantial support from the Grossmont Healthcare District (GHD), the program offers students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, a chance to secure entry-level clinical positions and launch meaningful careers in one of America’s fastestgrowing industries.
This rigorous three-year program includes courses such as Community Health Biology, Community Health Chemistry, and Physiology. Students can earn certifications, including the American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS), and gain hands-on experience through internships and immersive learning. Signature offerings include Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) and Medical Assistant (MA) certification courses at GUHSD’s Health Occupations Center (HOC) and the Health Exploration Summer Institute (HESI), a three-week internship at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.
During the 2023-24 school year, more than 5,000 students from eight GUHSD high schools enrolled in Health Career Pathway qualifying courses. Completion rates have surged 180% since 2020, with nearly 500 students completing the program last year. The summer of 2024 saw 48 students participate in the MA, CNA, and HESI internship programs, with these numbers expected to grow in the coming year.
“Health Career Pathways provide our students with a solid foundation for success in the healthcare sector,” said Todd Linke, GUHSD Health Career Pathways Coordinator. “The combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and certifications equips graduates with a competitive edge, whether entering the workforce directly or continuing their education.”
The program’s success is bolstered by its partnership with the Grossmont Healthcare District. GHD’s financial investments have enabled GUHSD to expand the program’s reach and resources. Sharp Grossmont Hospital provides physical space and staff support for the HESI internship, while the HOC offers facilities, teaching staff, and assistance with state testing.
“The Grossmont Healthcare District is dedicated to improving healthcare access and outcomes,” said Christian Wallis, CEO of GHD. “By investing in the Health Career Pathways program, we’re not only filling critical roles in our local healthcare system but also providing life-changing opportunities for students,” Wallis added.
The program also benefits from Federal Title 1 funds and California Educational Trust Grants, ensuring accessibility for all students regardless of their background.
“The Health Career Pathways program exemplifies the impact of collaboration between educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders,” said Eileen Bagg-Rizzo, Director of GUHSD’s College & Career Readiness Department. “Thanks to the ongoing support from the Grossmont Healthcare District, our students are not just entering the workforce—they’re thriving in it.”
For more information, visit the Grossmont Union High School District website or contact Collin McGlashen, Executive Director of Communications, at cmcglashen@guhsd.net.
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Collin McGlashen Grossmont Union High School District
SHOP SANTEE
Welcome to the Santee Chamber! Be sure to Shop Santee and support some of our newest Santee Chamber members.
La Mesa Glass www.lamesaglass.com
La Mesa Glass is a proud family-owned commercial glazing contractor. Continually operated under their original business license since their inception, they are known for their highly quality technical glazing skills and for exceeding expectations on complex and demanding projects. They have been professionally installing glass in San Diego since 1977, and they are here to stay.
Arcane Plumbing Service and Repair www.arcaneplumbing.com
Arcane Plumbing Service and Repair is a trusted and highly regarded plumbing company located in Santee. At Arcane Plumbing Service and Repair, they understand that plumbing issues can be a major inconvenience and source of stress for homeowners. That’s why their team of skilled plumbers is ready to tackle any plumbing problem with expertise and efficiency. No plumbing job is too big or too small for their expert plumbers.
Elev8 Arts Foundation www.elev8arts.org
Elev8 Arts Foundation was founded with the mission to help build a world where every child has access to arts education. They provide financial assistance for arts training through a variety of memorial and opportunity fund scholarships to children in San Diego. Scholarships are awarded to students ages 5 to 18 who demonstrate leadership, a positive work ethic, school and community involvement, academic achievement, and the potential to benefit from training in the arts.
Lightspeed Restoration of Santee www.lightspeedrestoration.com
Lightspeed Restoration of Santee specializes in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and indoor air quality solutions. Their skilled team is equipped to handle any water-related challenges, from extraction to drying and restoration. In the unfortunate event of fire damage, they’re here to assess, clean, and restore your property. When it comes to indoor air quality, their services include mold remediation, air duct cleaning, and moisture control.
Sedano Auto Group www.sedanoautogroup.com
Sedano Auto Group is a respected automotive retailer group in San Diego dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences. With a strong commitment to community involvement, the group prioritizes supporting local organizations and initiatives. Owner/Principal, Manny Sedano is thrilled to bring Sedano Chevrolet to Santee, creating opportunities for local residents and contributing to the community's prosperity. As a local San Diegan and a Veteran, he is proud to invest in the area and provide jobs for fellow veterans and families.
– Kristen Dare, ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce
MY HOMETOWN
BUILDING STRENGTH, CONFIDENCE, AND COMMUNITY WITH KARL BURRIS
Karl Burris, owner and physical therapist of Live Life Physiotherapy, draws inspiration from a deeply personal experience: witnessing his grandfather regain vitality through strengthening exercises despite complications from diabetes. This transformative moment sparked Karl’s passion for redefining healthcare, particularly for older adults often overlooked by traditional medical interventions.
Located in Santee, Karl’s mobile physiotherapy practice is more than a service—it’s a mission. By bringing care directly to patients’ homes, Live Life Physiotherapy removes barriers like transportation while fostering strength, balance, and confidence in clients. Karl emphasizes the importance of community, describing Santee as a unique blend of small-town connection within a big-city environment. This connection drives his approach, treating patients like neighbors and tailoring care to individual needs.
One of the challenges Karl faces is educating residents about mobile physiotherapy and its benefits, including its acceptance of Medicare. However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Hearing a client express newfound strength or confidence reminds him of the profound impact his work has on the community.
Live Life Physiotherapy focuses on addressing pain relief, mobility, and fall prevention, ensuring seniors maintain independence and quality of life. For Karl, providing care within his hometown offers a sense of fulfillment, allowing him to give back to a community that has supported him and his family. Outside of his practice, Karl and his family actively participate in local activities such as summer concerts, youth sports, and community events. These experiences deepen his connection to Santee and highlight the values of raising children in such a close-knit environment.
Looking ahead, Karl hints at exciting plans to expand services for seniors, aiming to keep them active and thriving. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? Build authentic relationships and understand your community’s unique needs—a philosophy that has guided him and strengthened his business. From revitalizing lives to fostering community spirit, Karl Burris is making a lasting impact on Santee, one patient at a time.
– Kristen Dare, ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce
www.SanteeRec.com | 619-258-4100 x222
Our winter programs include tiny tots, karate, musical theatre, dance and more! Don’t forget that financial assistance is available for Santee residents who qualify. View the full recreation guide and learn more at SanteeRec.com.
Teen Center Seniors
Picnic Shelters & Facility Reservations
Need an affordable space for a special occasion, banquet, or meeting? We have numerous facility options. Online reservations for City park picnic shelters and information about City Hall/Civic Center room reservations are available at SanteeRec.com or by calling 619-258-4100 x222.
Greening Santee
Santee residents who have a house with a parkway in front of it may qualify for a free tree. The City will plant and trim the approved tree at no cost to the resident; the resident just needs to water the tree. Contact Eric King, Parks & Landscape Supervisor at 619-258-4100 x303 to learn how to get your free tree!
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!
Artists Wanted
The City is looking for local artists and arts-related businesses to help us develop plans for public art in both the Arts & Entertainment District, currently under development, and citywide. If you are interested in participating, please contact Bill Crane at bcrane@cityofsanteeca.gov.
Get Involved: Sponsorship, Vendor & Volunteer Opportunities
Our community events would not be possible without the support of our wonderful sponsors, vendors and volunteers. If you would like to get involved in our events, visit SanteeSpecialEvents.com to learn more or email SpecialEvents@CityofSanteeCA.gov.
5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE
The healthcare industry is the backbone of every community, and as we approach 2025, there’s no better time to celebrate the people, services, and resources that help us thrive. From preventative care to fitness initiatives, Santee is full of opportunities to prioritize well-being and step into the new year feeling our best. Whether it’s scheduling check-ups, exploring alternative therapies, or supporting local health businesses, these five ideas will help everyone in Santee embrace a healthier lifestyle while celebrating the incredible healthcare providers in our midst.
1. Prioritize Preventative Care
Visit a local clinic like AFC Urgent Care or Neighborhood Healthcare or your doctor’s office at places like Children’s Primary Care, Grossmont Hospital, Santee Family Medicine or Sharp Rees-Stealy for routine check-ups. Update your eyeglasses and contacts prescription at Santee Family Optometry.
2. Explore Alternative Therapies
Try chiropractic services with Awesome Family Chiropractic, Barker Chiropractic, or Dilliard Chiropractic to address pain management or improve posture and mobility. Chiropractic care can help individuals maintain an active lifestyle during the holiday season and into the new year.
3. Shop Local for Health Products
Visit local pharmacies like All Care Pharmacy, health food stores, and wellness boutiques like Aloe Life for your healthcare needs. Look for products from nearby businesses, like vitamins, fitness gear, or wellness treatments.
4. Get Active and Stay Strong
Join a physical therapy program or fitness initiative like F45 Training. Members like Live Life Physiotherapy even offer tailored programs to improve strength, balance, and mobility, helping seniors and other residents stay active and confident.
5. Enhance Oral Health for the New Year
Schedule a dental cleaning or consultation with Coastal Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics, Santee Children’s Dentistry, or Santee Dental Team to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Take it the next step at an orthodontic office in town, ensuring you start 2025 with a confident smile, with places like Gechoff Orthodontics, Goodman Orthodontic, or Saint Orthodontics.
– Kristen Dare, ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce
SOCIALIZING SANTEE
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF LOVE IN SANTEE
Back in October, I had the privilege of joining Santee-Lakeside Rotary leader Elana Levens-Craig for a heartwarming visit to Sidney and Mildred Griffin, a charming couple who recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
Sidney and Mildred Griffin, who are longtime Santee residents, receive Meals On Wheels deliveries from Levens-Craig and have become friends with her over the months of interactions.
When Elana learned of their milestone anniversary, she immediately felt compelled to make a few calls to help expand on her celebrating their special day. She was able to get the Mayor to create a proclamation from the City of Santee, officially declaring their anniversary "Sidney and Mildred Griffin Day." Council Member Ronn Hall took time out of his day to present them with the proclamation which they were thrilled over. We each gifted them some flowers and sweet treats and they happily accepted, yet humbly noted it was so unexpected. Mildred, now 88 years old, is an inspiring example of dedication, having worked five days a week until the age of 85. Sidney mentioned how he recognized me from The Santee Magazine and told me how he enjoys reading each issue, cover to cover. It only seemed appropriate that I add him into this issue and remind people that we have loving neighbors all around us.
Their love and commitment to each other over seven decades is a testament to the power of partnership and perseverance. It was a joy to honor this incredible milestone with them and to recognize the Griffins as cherished members of our community. Thank you, Sidney and Mildred, for opening your home to a stranger and making a new friend. We wish you many more years of happiness!
– Kristen Dare, ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce
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
Ulta Beauty
Santee just got a little more beautiful as we welcome another new business to the Mission Gorge Shopping Center: Ulta Beauty! Ulta, as a chain, is the largest beauty retailer in the US, and they provide a wide variety of products ranging from hair care, to skin care, cosmetics, and fragrances! In addition to the products they sell, they also provide salon style services, including Brow, Hair, and Makeup services, as well as ear piercing, and more!
With the addition of Ulta Beauty alongside Trader Joe’s, we are seeing our local shopping centers get a much needed revitalization, and hopefully we will get to see that positively impact the surrounding local businesses, big and small, especially as we head into the holiday season.
The Stand - American Classics Redefined
If you are looking for a new lunch location in Santee, look no further! The Stand, an LA based burger spot, is coming to the old U.S. Bank location over by Sprouts in Spring 2025. The Stand is a family-owned and operated chain that has its roots in SoCal. Founded in 2003, they are celebrating their 21st year with the addition of their Santee restaurant as their 21st location! They boast a variety of American Classics Redefined, available with dietary/ allergy safe alternatives. With a clear devotion to quality, The Stand advertises fresh baked bread daily, locally sourced produce, and professionally blended proprietary ground beef.
To ensure that the community thrives alongside them, The Stand Santee will be donating 25% of sales generated to local charities and organizations that host dine-and-donate events at The Stand during their first 3 months! As we eagerly await their grand opening, be on the lookout for more updates as we enter 2025. Learn more at www.thestand.com
Santee Animal Shelter
We saw ground broken last month for the new County Animal Shelter here in Santee. This facility is projected to be completed in early 2026 and will be 23,000 square feet. This new shelter has the goal to have Zero Net Energy and will be large enough to provide animal intake & care as a fire evacuation site during local disasters, increased housing for long-term animals waiting for adoption, and provide affordable services, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, licensing, and basic pet wellness checks. Keep an eye out for more updates as construction progresses, and I’ll keep you posted as I know more!
Interested in learning more about buying or selling a house in today's market?
I’m always happy to help. Give me a call: 619.855.1151
Brought to you by:
Accountants
SAS Tax & Consulting Solutions Phone: (619) 876-2036
Advertising/Promotions
Advertising Edge, Inc. Phone: (619) 258-9773
Attention Getters Design Inc. Phone: (619) 441-8901
Esho Printing Phone: (619) 729-8219
Image On Phone: (619) 312-0941
Indoor Billboard Network (IBNSD) Phone: (619) 844-1123
S&S Trophies Phone: (619) 449-8007
TCB Embroidery Phone: (619) 562-2320
Airport
County of San Diego Airports - Gillespie Field Phone: (619) 956-4800
Automotive
Horsman's Automotive Phone: (619) 596-8826
Toyota Certified of Santee Phone: (619) 270-2901
Lloyd's Collision & Paint Center Phone: (619) 448-8768
Saga Security Services, Inc. Phone: (619) 208-1953
Senior Living & Services
Lantern Crest Senior Living Phone: (619) 258-8886
My Senior Travel Buddies Phone: (619) 823-1130
Shredding Services
Data Disposal Phone: (619) 585-0184
Sporting Goods
Al's Sport Shop Phone: (619) 562-4263
Pedego Santee Phone: (619) 738-2500
Storage
American Eagle Self Storage Phone: (619) 562-8831
Rockvill RV and Self Storage Phone: (619) 631-7707
Utilities
Padre Dam Municipal Water District Phone: (619) 448-3111
Republic Services Phone: (619) 562-9325
SDG&E Phone: (619) 441-3895
Waste Management Phone: (619) 596-5198
Interested in Advertising?
Interested in Advertising?
Interested in Advertising?
The Santee Magazine is a quarterly publication delivered by mail to every ho business and post office box in Santee
The Santee Magazine is a quarterly publication delivered by mail to every hom business and post office box in Santee.
The Santee Magazine is a quarterly publication delivered by mail to every home, business and post office box in Santee.
Print Distribution: Print Per Issue | 25,000 Pieces
Print Distribution: Print Per Issue | 25,000 Pieces
Direct Mail | Approximation 24,500
Print Distribution: Print Per Issue | 25,000 Pieces
Rack & Event Placement | Approximation 500
Direct Mail | Approximation 24,500 Rack & Event Placement | Approximation 500
Direct Mail | Approximation 24,500
Rack & Event Placement | Approximation 500
Online Distribution:
Online Distribution:
Online Distribution:
Each issue of The Santee Magazine is available on the Chamber website and in our Weekly Update email distribution (roughly 1,800 subscribers) for several weeks after mail distribution.
Each issue of The Santee Magazine is available on the Chamber website and in our Weekly Update email distribution (roughly 1,800 subscribers) for several weeks after mail distribution.
Each issue of The Santee Magazine is available on the Chamber website and in our Weekly Update email distribution (roughly 1,800 subscribers) for several weeks after mail distribution.
Ad Space starting at just $150/issue! Purchase space now by emailing: magazine@santeechamber.com
Ad Space starting at just $150/issue! Purchase space now by emailing: magazine@santeechamber.com
Ad Space starting at just $150/issue! Purchase space now by emailing: magazine@santeechamber.com
SOCIALIZING SANTEE
Elev8 Launch Party | elev8arts.org
The Santee Chamber has an amazing Board of Directors. Two in particular (Darcy Fagerwold, EDMC and Tim Staump, Staump Music School) came together and formed the Elev8 Arts Foundation and gave our CEO, Kristen Dare, the privilege of now serving on a board with them! At the end of August, they hosted a launch party at the workplace of another director (Bryan Koci, Whissel Realty Group) and were joined by several others from our board who came out to show their support. Elev8 Arts Foundation was founded with the mission to help build a world where every child has access to arts education, providing financial assistance for arts training through a variety of scholarships to children in San Diego.
Joint Mixer at Lantern Crest | santeechamber.com
In September the Santee CHamber held our annual joint mixer at Lantern Crest Senior Living, showcasing a wonderful collaboration between the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce and the Santee Chamber of Commerce. Attendees enjoyed an array of delicious food, which really elevated the atmosphere and encouraged mingling. Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to connect with one another, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations. The highlight of the night was the raffle, featuring an assortment of enticing baskets, which added an exciting element to the event.
The Santee Chamber of Commerce hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for Sedano Chevrolet, the city's first new-car dealership. Owned by East County native Manny Sedano, a Veteran who grew up in Lakeside and attended El Capitan High School, the dealership represents a significant development for the community. The dealership is being built on a historic property, once home to Santee’s original schoolhouse, Cowle’s School, which was later renamed Santee School in 1893 before closing in 2003. The property also housed the Santee Chamber's offices from 1978 to 2018. Longtime Santee company, the Cameron Brothers, partnered with the Sedano Auto Group to make this project a reality. The Chamber is excited about the revitalization of this iconic site and the new opportunities it brings, especially among so many automotive related businesses in the area!
Youth Business Fair | momentumtutoring.org
This was the Chamber’s second year working in collaboration with Momentum Tutoring and the Kiwani’s Club as we hosted over 60 youth entrepreneurs in the gym at Santana High School.. Kids had their booths set up and on display as we welcomed the public to come in and shop with them. Many of them have been working with Momentum Tutoring for the past several months in preparation for this event via their Kids Biz Club. If you have a kiddo in your life aged 7-17 who might be interested in starting their own business, get them into the kids club at Momentum so they can join us at next year’s fair!
Santee Voters Forum | santeechamber.com
The Santee Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum for candidates running for State Congress District 48, State Assembly District 75, County Supervisor District 2, Santee City Mayor and Santee City Council District 4 in the November general election. Candidates were able to meet the audience as participants had an opportunity to ask questions and research candidates. This event was free to the public and held at the Carlton Oaks Golf Course.
Manufacturing Expo | eastcountyedc.org
Manufacturing Day offers manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors to the public and showcase the promise of modern manufacturing. Through this exciting exhibition, manufacturers connect with future generations, tell the story of modern manufacturing, and come together to help their communities thrive. Several dozen east county businesses participated and promoted open jobs and rewarding careers to consider.
Joint Mixer at Sportsplex | sportsplexusa.com
The Santee Chamber had the pleasure of hosting a joint mixer with the East County Chamber of Commerce at the Santee Sportsplex USA. It was a fantastic evening of networking, where our members and partners came together to build connections and strengthen relationships. Sportsplex USA has been a cornerstone of our community since 2012, not only providing a premier venue for youth and adult leagues in softball, baseball, and soccer, but also serving as an economic driver for our region by hosting numerous tournaments that bring in visitors from across the area. Thanks to our neighboring chamber for these joint opportunities and to the staff at Sportsplex who help put together a wonderful night.
– Kristen Dare, ACE Santee Chamber of Commerce
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