The Santee Magazine - V07.4 - Winter 2018

SANTEE

The Season of Giving Santee serves in so many ways

SEASON OF GIVING

The Santee Young Professionals would like to thank t hardworking teachers of the Santee School District for all they do for their students by giving them a $25 gift card to use for classroom supplies!

Staff Notepad...

History in Santee has been made: November 6, 2018 marked our first district-based election as we welcomed two incumbents back for additional City Council terms and one new face to the seat representing District 3. By now, all who ran can rest assured their hard work and efforts paid off, because whether they won or lost, they stood up for our City and what they believed to be best for Santee. Thank you, Candidates, for giving us options on our ballot for leadership in our hometown. Now that we are past the political push, we can reflect and truly be grateful for what our town has to offer.

In Santee, we have over 2,500 business licenses to provide products and services to our 57,000+ residents. When I’m reminded of these facts, I get excited going into the holiday season and reflect on how I “Shop Santee.” I choose to buy my coffee from my favorite family-owned shop, my family and I get our haircuts, dental/orthodontic services, eye exams and glasses from local stores, we purchase auto, home and life insurance from a Santee agent and have refinanced our home with a Santee lender, we have someone across from our children’s elementary school prepare our annual taxes, and I frequent local retailers to purchase groceries, goods and gifts all year long. I love being able to live, work, and shop Santee every day.

I encourage each of you to find out what makes Santee special to you, embrace it going into the holidays and find innovative ways to give back.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and looking forward to a prosperous 2019, here are a few of my (Santee Chamber) favorite things we promise to provide within the business community next year:

1. Business Resources

Networking Mixers, Lunch & Learns, Conference Room & Office Rentals, Small Business Development Center Counseling

2. Community Development

Santee’s Favorites Program and Business Awards Night, Local Heroes Luncheon, Santee Young Professionals Committee

3. Economic Development

Santee Street Fair, Taste of Santee, San-Tee Golf Tournament, Quarterly Issues of The Santee Magazine

4. Legislative Advocacy

Government Affairs Committee, Political Task Force, Political E-Newsletter, Santee Community Forum

5. Products & Services for Members

Benefits provided as a result of items 1-4

–Photo Courtesy Jay Renard East County Herald

Darlene Fenn 2018 Chairperson of the Board Santee Chamber of Commerce

It’s hard to believe 2018 is almost over. At this time each year I find myself reflecting on events of the year. This year my involvement in the Santee Chamber has allowed me to learn so much about our lovely city. I have met wonderful business owners and community leaders; and have witnessed incredible acts of kindness from these amazing folks.

Being involved in the Chamber has given me a whole new perspective on what it means to be a business in Santee. It’s not just about doing business, it’s also about doing community. There are many ways to give back to the community through Chamber involvement.

As we enter the holiday season, I look forward to yet another Chamber event that showcases the true meaning of community. On December 6th, the Santee Chamber, in partnership with the Santee Santas, will be hosting the Taste of Santee. The event is open to the public and is a great way to see our city at its finest. For a nominal entrance fee and a special gift or gift card, you help support our Chamber, the Santee Santas, and our community, all while experiencing an evening of local entertainment, a delicious variety of food and drink from Santee’s favorite eateries/breweries, and witnessing an entire community come together to do good in our own backyard. This is one of my favorite Chamber events and I am looking forward to watching this event blossom and grow for years to come.

I am so thankful to call Santee home. Santee is a wonderful place to live, work, play and, of course, shop, not just during the holidays, but every day.

If you are interested in getting more involved in the Chamber, contact our incredible staff - info@ santeechamber.com.

Hope to see you at the Taste of Santee!

2018 Officers

Darlene Fenn, Chairperson of the Board COHR Consulting – 858.518.3702

Bobbie Jo Lewis, Chair Elect Walmart – 619.449.7900

Tim Staump, 1st Vice Chair Elect

Staump Productions – 619.888.7445

Joe Mackey, Treasurer XL Staffing – 619.247.4918

Kristine Costa, Secretary

Waste Management Inc. – 619.596.5100

Mike Clinkenbeard, Past Chairman Farmers Insurance – 619.442.0415

2018 Directors

Travis Alegria Sharp Business Systems – 619.258.1400x1104

Melissa Dombo Raceway Electric – 619.596.1918

Darcy Fagerwold Expressions Dance & Movement Center – 619.596.3362

Laura Koval Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve – 619.258.4617

Ailen Lloyd Lloyd’s Collision & Paint Center – 619.448.8768

Erick Lundy Lundy Insurance – 858.408.1404

Dan O’Brien

O’Brien Insurance – 619.449.9075

James Peasley

Padre Dam Municipal Water District – 619.448.3111

Barbara Ryan Santee School District – 619.701.5751

Warren Savage

U.S. Naval Sea Cadets – 619.249.2282

Kyle Whissel Whissel Realty – 858.699.3895

Pamela White

City of Santee – 619.258.4100 Ext 223

Doug Whitney Whitney Promotions – 858.735.6128

Office Staff

Kristen Dare General Manager

Liz Shank Jennae Gonzalez Sydnee Cable Consultant Office Administrator Membership Director

Publisher

Chamber of Commerce

Editor

Kristen Dare

Graphic Design

Arli Wolfson

Contributing Editors

Lisa Arreola

Liz Shank

Arli Wolfson

Committee Members

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

Terry Rodgers

Eddie Wall Kristopher Shannon

Arli Wolfson

Contributing Writers

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

Darcy Fagerwold

Mike Falconer

Darlene Fenn

Greg Gagnon

Rick Griffin

John Minto

Deniese Ossey

Liz Shank

Kristopher Shannon

Arli Wolfson

Contributing Photographers

Melissa Dombo Jay Renard Terry Rodgers

Printer

Advanced Web Offset

Heroes and giving.

Joh n Minto Mayor City of Santee

Giving comes in all forms and you probably give regularly of your time and money without even thinking about it. Sometimes, all you have to do is help your neighbor. There are so many unsung heroes living in our city and they don’t even know it. You and I know who they are, because we have seen their countless good deeds.

Santee has so many ways for you to get involved to help others. The Santee Library has programs for children and seniors. There are service clubs like Kiwanis, Optimist, Rotary and the like. You might enjoy working at the Santee Food Bank or any other place that helps feed, clothe or make those in need more comfortable.

There are many reasons to engage in giving and helping others. Ask yourself, What talents do I possess? How can I give back to the community I live in? Is giving back to my community enough? Your choice defines your social agenda. It may even be the legacy you are remembered for.

At the very least, you are telling your family, friends, colleagues and neighbors that you care and want to be a part of providing a good life for those around you. If by chance you have asked yourself, “What do I get out of helping?”

Let me remind you of an old Chinese saying: “If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap. If you want happiness for a day, go fishing. If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.”

If you are breathing, you have something to contribute. I would challenge each and every one of you to look at yourselves and ask, “What can I contribute?”

Remember, happiness is found in helping others.

As always, have a great Santee day.

Mayor John Minto

In San Diego, there are a reported 158 different gangs with approximately 7,500 documented gang members. Our youth are being recruited as early as age 10. The entire county is negatively impacted in terms of unsafe neighborhoods, increase in drug and human trafficking, devaluation of property, gang graffiti, and increased costs in law enforcement and in our judicial and correctional systems.

With such shocking statistics in our own county, Rise Up Industries (RUI), located in Santee, has a long-term goal to correct conditions that lead our youth to gang involvement. Their mission is to minimize gang involvement in our communities through programs of gang prevention, gang intervention, and post-detention reentry services.

Rise Up Industries overall is modeled after Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, the most successful program of its type in the US. The RUI Reentry Program opened in Santee in March 2016 and RUI greatly appreciates the support that the Santee community has shown since its opening. It assists formerly gang involved members to successfully reenter society; thereby, reducing the gang population and the recidivism rate. It is an 18 month/40hour week program supplying counseling and other reentry services.

Rise Up often allows for groups to tour their facilities so the community can better understand the benefit they give to former gang members in their program. Visiting the warehouse, you will find a large full-service CNC machine shop complete with training offices. As you go through the shop meeting the gentlemen in the program and watching as they work, the feeling you get from them is happiness and gratitude.

This November, they will have their second graduate, George “Angel” Ramirez (pictured), who spent 40 years in prison. In meeting him, he showed appreciation for the RUI program and praised the instruction he has received during his time in the program. He reminisced about after being released not knowing how to do tasks that seem second nature to the current population, such as operating a cell phone and managing bills. Angel also spoke about feeling the urge to go back to his old ways. In both cases, he looked to Rise

Rise Up Industries:

Up for assistance. In his words, “Rise Up Industries does way more than teach us how to become CNC Machine operators. They teach us great values, work ethics, how to be productive citizens and successful in life.” Angel, together with other RUI members, take time to speak to groups of young people about the dangers and consequences of gang activity.

Earlier this year, Angel along with four other RUI members, worked with Leslie Willis, a graduate student from University of San Diego. She and Rise Up created a program called “Writing After Life” as a space to share stories with each other and the community. This program quickly became the focus of Leslie’s Master of Arts in Social Innovation capstone project. Angel and the three other members were helped by Leslie to write a book featuring some of their stories from life before, during, and after incarceration. The publisher of the book, Writing After Life: Stories from Those Who Served a Life Sentence, will give 100% of the net proceeds from the sale of the book to Rise Up Industries. You can purchase this book on Amazon and read more about Angel and other Rise Up members as they share their first-hand experiences and offer insight into the root causes of gang involvement and criminality, the process of personal transformation in prison, and the challenges and rewards of receiving a second chance at life.

One of the components of Homeboy Industries that Rise Up Industries is modeling is to provide work experience in a social enterprise. They currently have three social enterprises. The first, mentioned above, is RUI’s Machine Shop. The Machine Shop trains members to be Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machine operators—a technical skill in high demand. Through contract work for local and out of state customers, it also gives them real work opportunities and work ethic development. Santee customers include GondolaSkate, Vortex Engineering, and Computer Integrated Machining. They are seeking new customers, and you can help by becoming or referring customers to Dustin Greeves, Machine Shop Manager at 619.300.1314 or d.greeves@riseupindustries.org.

In addition, their two other social enterprises, RUI

A Place to Belong

Coffee, and RUI Silk Screen and Embroidery, are developing their customer bases with the objective of providing additional employment opportunities. Programs to implement the other two prongs of RUI’s mission—gang intervention and gang prevention—will be launched as resources permit.

RUI Coffee comes in three distinct flavors: African Malawi, Decaf Brazilian, and Costa Rican. Through the simple act of purchasing Rise Up Industries coffee, you are helping to give hope and instill faith in men who have seldom if ever experienced compassion, kinship, and a second chance... 100% of their net proceeds are invested directly back into Rise Up Industries’ programs. In San Diego County you can find it in Barons Market, Valley Farm, and Major Market, or you can purchase it online at riseupindustries.org.

RUI Silk Screen and Embroidery offers special event, company and organization recognition on t-shirts, polos, hats and other products. For your family, school, church, sport competition, or work needs you can order customized t-shirts and hats by calling 619.457.0790 or emailing n.arlettaz@riseupindustries.org.

The profits from all Rise Up Industries’ social enterprises help support their post-detention reentry services, including:

• Life and job skill training

• Member income while training

• Employment experience

• Work ethic development

• Counseling services

Rise Up Industries benefits our community in several significant ways:

• It provides formerly-incarcerated persons career training in a well-paying trade.

• It reduces the costs of recidivism by offering kinship and economic opportunity.

• Machine shop graduates help fill a skill gap in the industry.

• It provides the community a source of quality machine shop services.

To finance its aggressive strategic plan, RUI will need continued support from donors, grantors, as well as increased revenues from customers of its machine shop, coffee, silk screen and embroidery enterprises.

As we end the year in our homes and businesses by focusing on giving and giving back, consider helping Rise Up so they can continue to do their great work helping individuals like Angel take steps to better their lives and gain the needed skills to be engaged members of society. TSM

How can you help?

• Buy their coffee at riseupindustries.org and urge your faith community and local restaurants, hotels and motels to serve Rise Up coffee.

• Be a customer or refer a customer to their machine shop — contact Dustin Greeves at 619.300.1314 or d.greeves@riseupindustries.org.

• Order customized t-shirts and hats for commemorative family, school, church, sports competitions, and other events – contact 619.457.0790 or n.arlettaz@riseupindustries.org.

• Make Rise Up Industries an Amazon Smile recipient. Visit smile.amazon.com; select their organization to receive donations from your Amazon purchases.

• Participate in Giving Tuesday on November 27. Donations are accepted online or by check.

• Donate your spare change to Rise Up Industries every time you use your credit or debit card by simply downloading the Coin Up mobile device to your phone or tablet.

Hometown: Building a Business with Purpose

It takes an especially driven person to take a business idea that serves a greater purpose and turn it into their reality. From a humble childhood to a successful, impactful, community-rooted business venture — Darcy Fagerwold’s spirit is inspiring.

As a young girl, Darcy fell in love with dancing. At a pivotal time in her life, her family fell upon hard times and her family could no longer afford dance. At this time the owner of the studio where she danced, Suzanne Mollenhauer of Jean’s Dance Studio, helped her along. She recalls how amazing it was that this owner gave her opportunities to clean, assist with classes, and help out wherever she could so she could continue with her dance career. This scholarship of sorts seemed to set the tone for Darcy’s future. “This woman changed my life, because of her, I was able to see Broadway shows, continue to develop my talent, and even attend dance conventions. She gave me those chances that I otherwise would not have had within my reach. Dance was my outlet and a place I belonged.”

As a studio owner, she reflects on those influences and how she runs her business today. “Being a studio owner I see these children day in and day out. They are impressionable and amazing. I see that at the very least, they have their dance friends and dance family to always fall back on.” She continues, “Adolescent girls can easily lose themselves. They get to this point where their whole sense of self shifts—one day their world is all about them and the next is feeling like they have to please other people in everything they do. I want them to become more. I want them to know without a doubt that they can face challenges and overcome them. They can see all the things their body can do and express in dance. I want them to feel strong and powerful in their bodies. They need that so badly. I know the many gifts that dance gives beyond being an excellent dancer. They grow in confidence, learn how to work through emotions, how to express themselves, build relationships, and so much more.”

Darcy’s studio is part of More Than Just Great Dancing®, a group of affiliated studios that are committed to a higher standard of quality curriculum, teacher training, management practices, and community involvement. The studio is also currently going through the process to become a YPAD Certified Studio. YPAD (Youth Protection Advocates in Dance) is a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping kids healthy and safe in all dance environments

and speaking out for age appropriate music, costumes, and choreography. This entrepreneur walks the walk and passionately runs her business with purpose.

“Being a business owner is a fast track to self–development,” says Darcy. “I see my business as a mirror of myself. I have grown because of the challenges I have faced in this venture. My students and staff need me to lead by example. Managing my workload effectively, staying calm, and planning ahead is so important. My energy affects the energy of the studio and I know that. I have to constantly school myself so that the business runs calmly, see the good and recognize it, overcome obstacles and learn from them.”

Every week Darcy writes to her staff. This week her topic was reflections. Dancers spend a lot of time practicing in front of a mirror. This can lead to comparisons and self-consciousness. Darcy wants to teach how awesome, wonderful and inspiring our bodies are. “Dancers are amazing! I want them to take time to appreciate their unique reflections.”

Darcy’s focus remains the same as the day she opened her studio. The business was built on celebrating the uniqueness of every child and emphasizing that every child matters. “Today, I realize I can have greater impact on my community. I want to ease the burden of the parent. We see the amazing things their children can do. Parents feel safe here, kids feel safe here. I also have the power to provide meaningful employment. I have an impact on the lives of my staff by encouraging them to learn and grow through mentoring.”

Darcy opened her studio in 2011 and her vision and purpose have had such a positive impact on our community. Her studio, Expressions Dance and Movement Center, has raised enough money to bring in-school dance therapy for special needs children to Santee schools free of charge through an organization called Drea’s Dream. Through a partnership with Darby’s Dancers, Expressions is able to offer classes to children with special needs at no cost to their families.

Every year her students perform at local retirement homes and other community events around Santee. We are lucky to have this entrepreneur building a business with purpose in our hometown. If you want to learn more about Darcy and her studio you can visit ExpressionsDanceandMovement.com. TSM

Free Dance Classes for Special Needs Children

Expressions Dance & Movement Center believes that every child deserves the chance to shine and be recognized for their unique gifts and talents. Sadly, many children are excluded from participation in extra-curricular activities because of special needs. A partnership with the nonprofit organization, Darby’s Dancers, is helping Expressions offer classes to these kids at no cost to their families. Darby’s Dancers was started by Valerie and Patrick Jones in honor of their daughter, Darby, who passed away from Leukemia in 2013. Darby was born with Down Syndrome, a heart defect, and leukemia, and yet she lived a life full of passion, kindness, bravery, optimism, perseverance and loyalty. Darby was an avid dancer, musician, reader and writer. It is the belief of Darby’s parents that it would be

Darby’s greatest desire to have children like herself enjoy dancing like she did. Darby’s Dancers was created to carry on Darby’s beautiful legacy and to bring joy to as many children with special needs as possible. Expressions is proud to be a part of that legacy!

The costs associated with dance lessons can be prohibitive to families who are already over-burdened with the weight of caring for a child with special needs. Students in Expressions’ Darby’s Dancers program participate in weekly classes, community events, and recitals at no cost. These students receive their dance classes, dance attire, dance shoes, costumes, show tickets and more, free of charge. Fundraising to support this program happens year around and is generously supported by the amazing families at Expressions. Student volunteers dance side by side with Darby’s Dancers students. These volunteers gain empathy, build teaching skills, and form lasting friendships. Luke, a student volunteer, said, “Helping in the classroom has taught me that even though we may have different abilities we really aren’t all that different. We have a lot in common, we laugh at the same jokes, we like a lot of the same things, and we all love to dance.”

Candice Kvavle, The Darby’s Dancers teacher at Expressions, said of her class, “They are such joyful souls! Seeing them dance and express themselves through movement is delightful. It’s a special experience for all involved. They bring happiness wherever they go and watching them learn and progress is so rewarding!” Candice is a certified Rhythm Works instructor and has been trained to work with students with special needs.

Expressions Dance & Movement Center will be expanding and adding a brand-new dance room in January 2019. This addition will allow for the expansion of the Darby’s Dancers program. “I believe in this program and we are so excited to be able to open more classes for our students with special needs. We want all kids to be able to experience the joy of movement and we want all parents to breathe a little easier when they walk through our doors,” said Darcy Fagerwold, owner of Expressions.

If you would like more information about how to register for classes, volunteer, or donate to Darby’s Dancers at Expressions please email info@ expressionsdanceandmovement.com. TSM

Congratulations to the winners of the 2017-2018 Santee School District Foundation

Innovative Grants totaling $24,059!

On October 22nd, the Santee School District Foundation heard presentations from applicant finalists from schools all around Santee! These presentations were then voted on and approved by the Board of Directors for the Foundation for funding ranging from $302 up to $4,000!

The Foundation is proud to give back to our local schools, students and hard-working teachers.

Cajon Park - $1,822

Middle School Media Literacy & Journalism

Cajon Park - $2,567

Fourth Grade Photography

Carlton Hills - $2,281

Middle School Pedal Karts

Carlton Oaks - $1,000

K-8 Trauma-Informed Care

Carlton Oaks - $2,500

K-8 Ceramics Program

Chet F. Harritt - $1,590

Kindergarten Coding

Hill Creek - $302

Third Grade STEM Bins

Hill Creek- $566

Fifth Grade Weekly Student Newscasts

Pepper Drive - $679

Kindergarten-First Grade Coding

Santee School District FOUNDATION

Vision:

To help Santee Schools produce good citizens and future leaders for our community.

PRIDE Academy - $4,000

K-8 Garden and Outdoor Learning Area

Rio Seco - $4,000

K-8 Garden and Outdoor Learning Area

Santee Success Program - $1,700 Outdoor Learning Center

Sycamore Canyon - $1,052

Kindergarten-First Grade STEM Challenges

Mission:

The Santee School District Foundation supports literacy, arts, technology, and school site grants through fundraising and donations.

Grant check presentation at the Santee School District Board meeting on November 6, 2018.

Rotary Motto: Service Above Self

What is Rotary?

Rotary is a volunteer organization of 1.2 million business and professional leaders united worldwide to provide humanitarian service and help build goodwill and peace. They are your neighbors, friends, and problem-solvers who share ideas, join other community leaders and take action to create lasting change. Founded in Chicago in 1905 as the world’s first volunteer service organization, Rotary quickly expanded around the globe. Rotary’s global presence allows ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Today club members meet weekly to plan service projects, discuss community and international issues, and enjoy fellowship. Clubs are nonpolitical and open to every race, gender, culture, and creed.

Why Rotary?

The Santee-Lakeside Rotary club was established in 1960 to represent and serve over 100,000 people in the Santee and Lakeside communities. Today the club is comprised of the ‘movers-and-shakers’ in the community and contrary to popular belief, not all of our members are retired or business owners. Santee-Lakeside Rotarians can be found holding public office, managing cities and water districts, educating our youth and running multi-million dollar organizations.

The club is involved in numerous international and local community activities that respond to poverty and health conditions, youth in crisis and programs which promote youth leadership, literacy and higher learning. You will also find Santee-Lakeside Rotarians out in the community helping support other service organizations such as: Santee Food Bank - funded purchase of new freezer; Santee Santas - district grant provided new laptops and scanners for intake, sort and box canned goods, assemble boxes, help deliver food and gifts to families and seniors; Grossmont Healthcare District - fingerprint children for emergency identification at Kids Care Fest; US Postal Service - unload and collect all food donated to our local post office and deliver to Santee Food Bank in order to keep all donations in Santee.

Last year the Santee-Lakeside club collaborated with the Rotary Club of Ensenada on a ‘global grant’ to provide a state-of-the-art computer center for the Rancho Santa Marta Orphanage in Mexico. During our annual Rotarians at Work Day, our club has planted trees at Santee Lakes,

cleared campsites in Mission Trails Regional Park and partnered with the city on the beautiful Rotary Grove at West Hills Park.

In 1991, the club started a Mentoring and Scholarship Program that identifies students who need additional support and encouragement to graduate high school with their class. Rotarians then mentor these students one-on-one for two years. Since the program started, the club has assisted over 155 students from Santana, West Hills, and El Capitan with an 82% graduation rate. 63% of students which graduate go on to attend college. Our annual Concert at the Lakes event each July is the major fundraiser that benefits this program.The club also sends a select few high school juniors each year to the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA), a weekend long program that focuses on developing and enhancing youth leadership skills.

How Can I Join?

If you are interested in getting involved or would like to learn more about Rotary, join us for a complimentary lunch at one of our upcoming meetings. Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club meets every Thursday at San Diego Christian College, 280 Riverview Parkway in Santee, from 12 - 1:30 pm.

TSM

To learn more and view our upcoming programs, visit our website at santeelakesiderotary.org

– Kristopher Shannon

Did You Know?

Rotary International is responsible for reducing cases of Polio by 99.9% worldwide. Before Rotary’s Commitment to Polio eradication in 1979, 125 countries were tormented by this paralyzing disease. Today, there are only three.

Did You Know?

Eight lives are saved for every $1000 donated to the Rotary International Foundation. Whose life are you going to save?

Giving is the Glue

How the Art of Giving is a Generous Gift to Us All

Have you ever felt that ‘buzz’ in the air during the holidays? I’m not talking about the eggnog and delicious sweets kind of buzz... I’m talking about that enticing energy of goodness and kindness that seems to waft through the air like fresh baked gingerbread during the Holidays.

Well, we can thank our friend oxytocin for that! What is oxytocin? No, no - it’s not a mystical long-lost reindeer. It’s this unique and fun little chemical. One that is directly linked to an increase in generosity among humans. And here is the best part... OUR brains make it naturally. Sign me UP!

Commonly referred to as a “helpers high” or the “hug” hormone, this powerhouse chemical has the potential to do some amazing things. Throughout history, people in tribes would live and die by how effective they were as a group, a community of support to one another. The bonds between them set the stage for success. Hunters would gladly share meat, mothers would tend to kids and shamans would be happy to heal...you get the idea. This deeply ingrained human need to support is what makes communities, like Santee, THRIVE today!

It’s as simple as this: Do something giving or generous

= Feel-good chemical oxytocin floods the body (yummy buzz) = Cycle starts over... and then some..

It can be as easy as a small hand-written note to brighten someone’s day, buying a gingerbread latte for the person behind you, or volunteering time to a local shelter, food bank or organization that supports those less fortunate in the local community. The BUZZ that I mentioned, the one that seems to fill the air like an apple pie? Well, that’s the fantastic domino effect of our friend oxytocin. Science has recently shown us that when a person chooses to be generous, it not only boosts the oxytocin levels in that person, but also boosts the levels in the person receiving the generosity... and in every human that witnesses the action. Whoa! That’s a WHOLE lot of buzz-buzz, feel-good, holiday-cheer dominos.

So, this holiday season, as you enjoy all the merriment, I encourage you to be generous to others. Support your community and tribe! ... and it’s ok to be seen doing it.

Here are 3 great places to start spreading that oxytocin cheer:

* Santee Santas

* Santee Food Bank

* Santee School District Foundation

And speaking of giving... at The UPS Store, we will be giving away a FREE BOX for every gift you have us pack up and ship in the month of December! Why?? ... because we are oxytocin addicts. Just mention this story, or the code word “giving.”

Also, we do UPS Carbon Neutral Shipping. Because we love to support the Earth. That means your shipments are 100% Carbon Offset for the Holidays. Sending Happy Holiday Vibes to you all! TSM

– Greg Gagnon, Owner, The UPS Store Santee • Lakeside • San Carlos

A N T E E R E S T A U R A N T G U I D E

Santee Chamber of Commerce members are listed in blue... consider patronizing Chamber members’ businesses in appreciation of the support they give to our community

Carl’s Jr 10009 Mission Gorge

Cazadores Mexican Food 9331 Mission Gorge

Chicago Pizza Company 8528 Magnolia Ave

Chick-fil-A................................ 9418 Mission Gorge

Chipotle Mexican Grill 9828 Mission Gorge #C

Cotijas Taco Shop 9121 Mission Gorge

D Wings & Ribs 10769 Woodside #110

Daphne’s California Greek ....... 9828 Mission Gorge #B

Del Taco 9822 Magnolia Ave

Domino’s Pizza 10251 Mast Blvd

Domo Sushi & Grill 9625 Mission Gorge

El Pollo Loco 9714 Mission Gorge

El Rancho ................................. 8001 Mission Gorge

Emma’s Mexican Food 8781 Cuyamaca

Estrada’s Mexican #1 8528 Magnolia #107

Estrada’s Mexican #2 9292 Carlton Hills

Estrada’s Taco Shop ................. 9630 Carlton Hills

Everbowl 9862 Mission Gorge

Ferny’s Mexican Grill 10320 Mission Gorge

Finest City Kettlecorn/Sweets 8729 Blue Lake Dr

Giant New York Pizza 8933 Carlton Hills

Giant Pizza King 9614 Carlton Hills

Growler’s Sub Shack 214 Town Center Pkwy #B

Hilberto’s Mexican Food 9805 Prospect

In-N-Out Burgers 9414 Mission Gorge

Jack in the Box #1 .................... 9337 Mission Gorge

Jack in the Box #2 8500 Magnolia

Jack in the Box #3 10330 Mast Blvd

Jersey Mike’s Subs 9331 Mission Gorge

KFC .......................................... 8890 Cuyamaca

Kravings Fruit Bar 9740 Mission Gorge #205

L&L Hawaiin Barbecue 9621 Mission Gorge #107

Leela Thai Restaurant 9725 Mission Gorge

Leo’s Taco Shop 9828 N Magnolia

Little Caesars............................ 9720-C Mission Gorge

Little Lando’s Mexican Food 8918 Carlton Hills

Loreto’s Mexican Food 8667 Fanita Dr

Los Amigos 10251 Mast # F

McDonald’s ............................ 8876 Cuyamaca

Panda Express 9862 Mission Gorge

Panera Bread 9955 Mission Gorge

Pho Ca Dao Resturant 9535 Mission Gorge #A

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers 8867 Cuyamaca

Round Table Pizza 9824 N Magnolia Ave

Rubio’s Coastal Grill 130 Town Center Pkwy #D

San Diego Blenders Eatery 235 Town Center Pkwy

Sandwich Bags Deli 10767 Woodside

Santana’s Mexican ................... 10050 Mission Gorge

Sonic Drive-In 10515 Mission Gorge

Soriana’s Mexican 9470 Cuyamaca #130

Star Market 10502 Mission Gorge

Submarina ............................... 9713 Mission Gorge

Subway 9890 Magnolia #F508 50 Town Center Pkwy, 7757 Mission Gorge

Sultan’s Bar & Grill 10769 Woodside Ave #105

Taco Bell 9825 Mission Gorge

The Chicken Shop .................... 8929 Carlton Hills

The WrapShack....................... 9490 Cuyamaca

Wendy’s 9655 Mission Gorge

Wienerschnitzel 9650 Mission Gorge

Consider shopping from these Santee Chamber of Commerce business members. Locally owned businesses provide more jobs and support more local non-profits. When you shop local, more of your money stays here, strengthening our local economy and community.

Santee’s High School Standouts – Campus Edition

Santana High School West Hills High School

With our “West Hills Way” and our core value of academics first, West Hills continues to be a school of excellence in all ways. With many distinguished faculty and staff, we are proud of our comprehensive school programs and services, from our academic and social-emotional support of our Guidance department, to our many course offerings in the Honors and Advanced Placement programs, to our Career Technical Education pathways, we are dedicated to meeting the needs of all students.

With excellent athletics, performing and visual arts programs, along with award winning teachers, we have a terrific Wolf Pack tradition of success and are listed consistently amongst the U.S. News and World Reports as one of the best high schools in the United States.

– Robin Ballarin, Principal

At Santana, we are committed to providing an exceptional learning experience to our diverse student population. This is exemplified by the variety of opportunities students have to connect with their school. From the AOK (Acts of Kindness) Club to the Robotics Club, the Digital Fabrication Pathway to our growing band program, there really is something for every student to get involved. In the event there is a need for a club that has not yet been created, every student has the opportunity to create their own, with the endorsement of a teacher to oversee it, which creates a sense of ownership among the students.

Overall, Santana boasts over 40 student programs to encourage participation in the greater school-wide community beyond that of academia, and over 23 CIFsanctioned Varsity and Junior Varsity sports. These programs would not be possible without Santana’s highly supportive staff and exceptionally talented student learners. Combined, the staff and students are the fabric of what makes Santana and the Santee community a great place.

A group of Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) volunteers mentored Santana High School’s robotics team to the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics World Championship in Houston, Texas April 18-21.

Made up of 25 or more students from grades 9-12, FIRST Robotics teams work together to build and program robots to perform challenging tasks against a field of competitors. Additionally, teams must raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills and perform community outreach.

“In robotics you learn a lot of skills that will help you in the future,” said Emily Parise, a student and FIRST Robotics team member. “You learn about all kinds of things — engineering, how to write a grant, how to communicate. It brought me out of my shell and forced me to do things I didn’t think I could do.”

The team competed against more than 400 teams from 74 countries, winning their division and making it to the world championship semi-finals. Supported by their coaches, mentors, sponsors and parents, this was Santana High School’s third appearance at the World Championship since forming in 2012.

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Create Your Own f i

SA N T EE FO O D BA N K

SA N T EE FO O D BA N K

Years Serving Santee:

The Santee Food Bank is an all-volunteer, independent non-profit organization that has served the Santee community for 35 years.

2017 Statistics:

The Santee Food Bank is an all-volunteer, independent non-profit organization that has served the Santee community for 35 years.

2017 Statistics:

Years Serving Santee:

In the calendar year 2017, they served 12,289 individuals equating to 4,360 families. One-third of these families include households with children and another one-third are senior citizens.

In the calendar year 2017, they served 12,289 individuals equating to 4,360 families. One-third of these families include households with children and another one-third are senior citizens.

Santee Food Bank's clients receive an emergency two-day supply of food. The majority of the food is provided by local businesses, churches and community residents.

Santee Food Bank's clients receive an emergency two-day supply of food. The majority of the food is provided by local businesses, churches and community residents.

Location & Hours:

Housed on the grounds of the Carlton Hills Evangelical Church at 9715 Halberns Boulevard, the Santee Food Bank is open from 9:00am-11:00am every Wednesday, Friday, and the first and third Saturday of each month. Please call 619.4 48.2096 for more information or visit TheSanteeFoodBank.org.

Location & Hours:

Housed on the grounds of the Carlton Hills Evangelical Church at 9715 Halberns Boulevard, the Santee Food Bank is open from 9:00am-11:00am every Wednesday, Friday, and the first and third Saturday of each month. Please call 619.4 48.2096 for more information or visit TheSanteeFoodBank.org.

Grocery Outlet Santee's annual Independence From Hunger Food Drive Customers donate either money or a pre-filled bag of groceries

This year they raised over $4,000 with 100% of the donations going directly to the Santee Food Bank.

Grocery Outlet Santee's annual Independence From Hunger Food Drive Customers donate either money or a pre-filled bag of groceries

This year they raised over $4,000 with 100% of the donations going directly to the Santee Food Bank

SA N T EE Sa n tas fo u n dat i o n

SA N T EE Sa n tas fo u n dat i o n

Years Serving Santee:

2018 will be their 65th year serving the Santee community. Over 2,000 volunteers help their holiday program in tasks such as food sorting and packing, toy sorting and wrapping and delivery day along with several other smaller events  during the holiday season.

2018 will be their 65th year serving the Santee community. Over 2,000 volunteers help their holiday program in tasks such as food sorting and packing, toy sorting and wrapping and delivery day along with several other smaller events  during the holiday season.

2017 Holiday Program Statistics:

2017 Holiday Program Statistics:

Years Serving Santee:

Donate, Volunteer, or Receive Assistance at SanteeSantas.org

The 2017 Holiday Program assisted a total of 218 families; these families consisted of a total of 822 persons, of which 97 were seniors and 415 children.

The 2017 Holiday Program assisted a total of 218 families; these families consisted of a total of 822 persons, of which 97 were seniors and 415 children.

The Holiday Program provides turkeys, dairy and produce to each family to prepare a holiday meal along with enough staple items to last at least 2 weeks during the holiday season. Additionally, they provide toys and books to children under the age of 11 and children over age 11 receive gift cards and books. They distributed a total of 54 bicycles, 5 tricycles and 10 scooters, all which were donated through various fundraising events. They provided 200 poinsettia plants to seniors living in our mobile home parks and many stuffed animals to the residents at Stanford Court Nursing Home.

The Holiday Program provides turkeys, dairy and produce to each family to prepare a holiday meal along with enough staple items to last at least 2 weeks during the holiday season. Additionally, they provide toys and books to children under the age of 11 and children over age 11 receive gift cards and books. They distributed a total of 54 bicycles, 5 tricycles and 10 scooters, all which were donated through various fundraising events. They provided 200 poinsettia plants to seniors living in our mobile home parks and many stuffed animals to the residents at Stanford Court Nursing Home.

iCan you guess the year Santee Santas Foundation was created? Answer below :rewsnA 2591

Annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive sponsored by the USPS A small army of 30-40 volunteers give up their Saturday afternoon & evening to help sort & store the donations collected by the Santee mail carriers

Can you guess the year Santee Santas Foundation was created? Answer below.

Annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive sponsored by the USPS. A small army of 30-40 volunteers give up their Saturday afternoon & evening to help sort & store the donations collected by the Santee mail carriers

Donate, Volunteer, or Receive Assistance at SanteeSantas org

The Making of a Hometown

Santee is so much more than just a city to me, it’s my hometown!

For more than 45 years I have called this home, and while I may be biased, I believe that this community is one of the best!

San Diego County is known as one of the most beautiful places in the United States as well as of the most expensive!

Santee, however, stands out for being one of the cities that provides affordable housing, a safe, fun community, and so much to offer both kids and adults of all ages. I love the numerous parks and walking trails, the summer concerts in the park. The aquatics center and the YMCA. What a great place to swim laps or take the kids for a few hours on a hot day! What about the shopping? You don’t have to leave this city anymore to get what you need.

Over the years, I have grown with this city. I have been a team mom, a Girl Scout leader, a volunteer at both Cajon Park and Santana, and currently I’m a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

Not only is this family-oriented neighborhood, Santee has made itself a city where businesses of all sizes look to move in and thrive, including my own real estate business.

Meeting people, hearing their stories of what brought them here and why they stay, keeps me intrigued. We are made up of multiple generations that have stayed here. Including three generations of my own family! I love learning and growing and believe each of them help make this town what it is.

I love Santee. I’m proud to be a part of this community and I’m thankful for all your continued

support, and please know that I am never too busy for your referrals! Give me a call at 619.251.7546 or visit MyNeighborhoodSearch.com for assistance with any of your real estate needs. TSM

Santee Santas Toy Drive

– Deniese Ossey, Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Grossmont Healthcare District’s Herrick Community Health Care Library Serves East County Residents

Have you visited the Dr. William C. Herrick Community Health Care Library, either in person or online? If not, you are missing an East County gem! The Herrick Library is a public library that specializes in health information for East County residents.

Do you get overwhelmed when you do a Google search for health or medical information? Do you know which of those millions of search answers are from reliable sources? The library staff can help you sort through that maze and find the right information for you.

Diane Mayorga, an East County resident and regular patron, said she values the support from library staff in finding answers to her health questions. “We all need to reach out to each other and share information, especially about health. I’m really passionate about sharing knowledge and so is the staff here.”

What else does the Herrick Library offer?

• Approximately 3,000 items including books, DVDs, magazines, newsletters, and free pamphlets.

• Checkout of most books and DVDs with a Herrick Library card, available to those who live, work, go to school, or receive medical care in the East County region.

• Magazine, journal, and encyclopedia articles from Gale

Cengage databases: Health & Wellness Reference Center, Health Reference Center Academic, and General OneFile.

• Monthly “Wellness Wednesday” health talk, 10 am– 11 am, 4th Wednesday, January – October.

• Monthly blood pressure checks, 2nd Tuesday, 10 am –11:30 am

• Website with extensive links to reliable and authoritative sites covering all major health topics.

• Ten computers for public use.

• Two small meeting rooms which may be reserved by health-related, community-based, nonprofit organizations for workshops and meetings.

• Support groups for addiction recovery, Alzheimer’s caregivers, cancer patients/survivors or caregivers, chronic lung diseases, chronic pain, and energy & healing.

“The Herrick Library is a tremendous community asset that is available to anyone who wants to access a broad array of healthcare resources and to gain a greater understanding of medical conditions and options,” said Nancy Greengold, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Sharp Grossmont Hospital. The Herrick Library is operated by the Grossmont Healthcare District and is located at 9001 Wakarusa St. in La Mesa, just east of Sharp Grossmont Hospital and next to La Mesa’s Briercrest Park. See the ad below for hours and contact information. TSM

ALL ELECTRICAL SERVICES INCLUDING:

Solar Ceiling & Whole House Fans

Panel Upgrades

Electrical Troubleshooting

Lighting Fixture Install Outlets/Switches

Residential & Commercial and more...

You are invited to a FREE Holiday Concert by the Santee Community Chorus

Celebrate the holidays with the Santee Community Chorus at a free concert in the Mission Trails Regional Park Indoor Theater on Sunday, December 16, at 3 pm.

Director Elizabeth Kimery will lead a concert of beautiful choral music and holiday favorites. Mission Trails Regional Park is located at One Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119. Make your holiday season complete with this concert of beautiful and festive music. Please join us!

For over 7 years the Santee Community Chorus has sung together and performed for the Santee community. A volunteer chorus of people from all over the county, they love to sing and make new friends through music. Throughout the year they perform a wide variety of musical genres – classical, pop, film and show tunes, and original pieces by various contemporary composers.

Pianist Jan Ault is a gifted musician who accompanies the singers, and shines as a soloist. The chorus always welcomes new members – practicing Tuesday evenings beginning at 7 pm at the Santee United Methodist Church, 8964 North Magnolia, in Santee. For more information, please contact Chorus Manager Anne Ault at janault1@cox.net.

Dr. Goodman & Staff

Dedicated to excellence. As a team, we will work with you to get the smile of your dreams and guide you every step of the way through your ortho treatment. Call to schedule your consultation in our state of the art office. We look forward to seeing you and your smile!

8840 N. Magnolia Ave #260, Santee • 619-749-4033

Event/Activity Calendar

Teen Things

www.SanteeTeenCenter.com Questions call - (619) 258-4100 ext.222

Santee Teen Center @ Big Rock Park

The Santee Teen Center is an after-school and summer break drop-in recreation program, open 2 – 6 pm, designed for pre-teens and teens 6 – 12 grade, up to age 17. Monthly Teen Center activities are FREE and no Teen Center membership is required.

Activity Dates

• December 14

• January 11

• February 1

• March 15

• April 12

• May 3

• June 12

Friday Night at Santee City Hall

The City of Santee is committed to bringing safe and engaging activities to pre-teens and teens within the community. Join us and the County of San Diego Parks & Recreation Department on a Friday night for music, games, team challenges and more. This program is FREE for all ages 10 – 17.

Activity Dates

• December 7

• February 22

• March 22

• May 17

• June 7

SD Nights at the Santee Teen Center

The San Diego County Parks & Recreation Department is bringing SD Nights to Santee! It is a drop in program that is FREE to all teens ages 10 – 17 and offers opportunities to recreate, develop life skills and build character.

Enjoying the programming at the Santee Teen Center? Consider becoming a member! Annual registration is only $44 for Santee residents ($59 for non-residents). Questions? Call (619) 258-4100 ext. 222

Year at a Glance Calendar

Recycle Your Tree

Trees can be recycled the first 2 weeks following Christmas through January 12, 2019. Residents with curbside collection can recycle their trees by placing them in their green waste carts on their regular pick-up day. Trees must be cut into 4 foot long sections and must fit completely inside the green cart. Ornaments, tinsel and tree stands must be removed before recycling. Flocked trees cannot be recycled, but will be collected if cut into 4 foot sections and placed inside the trash can.

Website Resources: CityofSanteeCa.gov

SanteeChamber.com

SanteeLakes.com

Key: COMPOC = Santee Community Oriented Policing Committee

SPARC = Santee Park and Recreation Committee

Santee Walmart

Proudly

serving the community for more than 20 years

The Santee Walmart opened its doors in 1993 and, two decades later, is honored to continue serving Santee residents and visitors alike as an integral part of the community.

Walmart is proud to support many local organizations including the Santee Girls Softball ASA, the Boys and Girls Clubs of East County, the Santee Food Bank and Santee Chamber of Commerce, and participate in local events like the Santee Street Fair.

Walmart understands that when we work together, we all live better.

Walmart is proud to support many local organizations, including the Santee Girls Softball ASA, the Boys and Girls Club of East County, the Santee Food Bank and Santee Chamber of Commerce, and participate in local events like the Santee Street Fair. Visit