Chair’s Message

It’s official, fall is right around the corner, and that means that schedules are hectic, the weather is STILL hot, and time seems to go by faster than ever. With over half of this year behind us, we have so much to reflect on. I am in awe that we are about to say hello to fall. Kids are back in school and business is humming. Now is a great time to stop and evaluate. It allows us the opportunity to reflect on this year thus far and see where we have succeeded and where we have struggled.

One of our celebratory moments was the return of the Santee Street Fair and Craft Beer Festival. A successful event after a two-year hiatus. We saw over 150 merchandise and service vendors—offering thousands of items for sale from artisans, home services, fashion, and more. There was something for all ages. Kids rides were back alongside live performances from Expressions Dance & Movement Center, Staump Music School, and many more as MC Clint August carried us through the day. For the 21+ crowd, over a dozen local breweries and distilleries showcased their craft in the beer garden complete with a live DJ hosted by Deano’s Pub. In honor of Memorial Day we presented alongside the local Santee VFW Post 9327 a generous gift from Sycuan to this year's Gold Star Family. Our local fire station flew a giant American Flag above the stage and the festivities spanned the entire day. I’d like to personally thank our sponsors that helped make this day happen, Gechoff Orthodontics, Staump Music School, and Sycuan Casino Resort.

I'd be amiss if I didn't acknowledge that our Chamber of Commerce had a tough loss this summer. Board member Jim Peasly passed away. I met Jim through the Chamber of Commerce and I’d like to say I will truly miss his presence in this organization. He was the best cheerleader, he led with fair and tough questions and always finished with a positive, encouraging outlook. He was full of great conversation and business advice and truly added so much value to the chamber.

As we look ahead to the remainder of 2022 our organization continues to reassess, shoot higher, and think about the future. We promise to continue to measure our goals, remember our “whys” and pursue being a proud advocate for a well-balanced community, supported by a healthy, expanding business community.

Have you taken note of our East County Young Professional (ECYP) group as of late? They are working hard to put together great events for young professionals who'd like to get more involved and network. Up next: Young Pros Mixer at the Padres game in September.

The Chamber is eagerly looking forward to a robust November! We kick off the month with our Veterans Appreciation Golf Tournament and finish it with our Taste of Santee event. Our annual Taste of Santee will be held on a new date, Giving Tuesday! This event will feature local eats and local non-profits. For our local food vendors who are interested in highlighting their cuisine please register now on our website. We will be hosting this event in The Plaza at Lantern Crest, who graciously donated their space for this year’s event. If you haven't seen this space, you are in for a treat – it’s gorgeous! Tickets and vendor registration are available on our website at www.SanteeChamber.com.

Please take a look at The Santee Chamber’s calendar on www.SanteeChamber.com for details. As always, I hope to see you at the next Santee Chamber of Commerce event.

- Melissa Dombo

Santee Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Board

Thank you 2022 Chairman's Circle Members

Community Champions

Community Conveners

Community Catalyst