Jenny Flores, Special Events & Graphics Coordinator
Jacil San Martin, Internal Services Coordinator
Fall into Action with the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce!
As the leaves start to change and the weather cools down, the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce is in the midst of an exciting and busy fall season! September was packed with events that bring our business community together, creating connections and celebrating local businesses.
We kicked off the month with our State of the County Address with over 300 attendees present. Guests received an update from San Bernardino County Officials in addition to powerful networking opportunities.
Our Members-Only Kemper Campbell Ranch Mixer was a delightful evening that offered a unique opportunity for our members to network in a beautiful, rustic setting. Kemper attendees enjoyed great conversations, delicious food, and a chance to strengthen ties within our business community.
To close September, we had a tee-rific time at our highly anticipated Annual Golf Tournament. It was a day filled with friendly competition, camaraderie, and perfect fall weather on the greens. The tournament provided a fantastic platform for business leaders to connect outside the office, all while supporting the Chamber’s ongoing initiatives.
e-mail: mark@ghdcc.com Visit us on-line at www.ghdcc.com
MANUSCRIPTS: The editor welcomes articles for possible publication. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for the care or return of any manuscripts. Articles are subject to editing and are included on an “as space permits” basis.
ADVERTISING: Advertising will be accepted from outside sources at the current member/non-member rates. The Chamber reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and/or sponsorship. The printing of an advertisement and/or content does not constitute or confer an endorsement of a product, business or service.
DISCLAIMER: All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in Insight Magazine. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce accepts no responsibility for damages arising directly or as a consequence of the use or publication of inaccurate information. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own, and are not necessarily shared by Insight Magazine, its staff, the Greater High Desert Chamber or advertisers. Editorial content is intended as general information, and not as specific legal or financial advice; for such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce assumes no liability resulting from advertising contained in this publication.
As we look ahead, we encourage all our members to stay engaged and take advantage of the many opportunities we offer to grow your network and business. Let’s embrace the season of change and continue to build a thriving business community together!
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2024 - 2025
Shannon Shannon – Chair of the Board – SaddleRock Reverse Mortgage
Dr. Lisa Lamb – Immediate Past Chair – Lewis Center for Educational Research
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024 - 2025 The GHDCC has a award-winning website! Visit WWW.GHDCC.COM to check it out! You might see some familiar faces and learn even more about your Chamber!
Clinton Alford – Farmers Insurance - Clinton Alford Agency
Laura Andre - The Mall of Victor Valley
Gwen Bedics – Global Credit Union
CJ Eversole – Pizza Factory of Apple Valley
Matthew Hawkins - Matthew Hawkins State Farm Insurance Agent
Randi Hunt – A Better Way - Victor Valley Domestic Violence
Arsalee Morales – Apple Valley Communications, Inc.
Sarina Muhammad – Goodwill Career Resource Center
Kevin Smilen - Victorville Motors
Dr. Kenisha L. Williams – TransFormNation Training & Development, LLC
1ST DISTRICT SUPERVISOR COL. PAUL COOK (RET.)
ABD OFFICE SOLUTIONSKYOCERA AUTHORIZED
PARTNER
EXCELSIOR CHARTER
SCHOOLS
The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (HDPAC) is proud to announce our endorsements for the November 6, 2024
Federal & State
United States Representative –District 23
Jay Obernolte (R)
State Senate – District 19
Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R)
State Senate – District 23
Suzette Valladares (R)
State Assembly – District 39
Paul Marsh (R)
Education
Victor Valley College – Area 3
Ken Bucnis
Victor Valley College – Area 5
Steve Tyrrell
Apple Valley Unified School DistrictArea 3
Gary Childress
Cities & Town
Town of Apple Valley – District 2
Art Bishop
City of Hesperia – District 1
Rebekah Swanson
City of Hesperia – District 5
Josh Pullen
City of Victorville – District 1
Tiffany Gaudin
City of Victorville – District 3
Elizabeth Becerra
Education
Hesperia Unified School District –Area 1
Maria Gomez
Hesperia Unified School District –Area 4
Martial Haprov
Victor Valley Union High School District – Area 1
Kyle Hovannesian
Local Agencies
Mojave Water Agency – Division 7
Michael Limbaugh
Hesperia Recreation & Park District District 4
Kenneth Nowicki
The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (HDPAC) is a voluntary, non-partisan committee that supports and opposes candidates for elective office and ballot propositions. This committee shall abide by the laws governing political action committees in the State of California.
GREATER HIGH DESERT
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JOINS THE INLAND EMPIRE CHAMBER ALLIANCE OPPOSING
AB 98: A CALL TO PROTECT OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY.
The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce joins the Inland Empire Chamber Alliance to urge a VETO of AB 98 (Carrillo), which has just passed the legislature. This bill imposes severe limitations on warehouse development and expansion across California, disproportionately impacting Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Despite its intention to protect community health and the environment, AB 98 lacked input from key stakeholders, including city and county officials, local chambers, businesses, and the environmental community. We believe the proposed measures are overly restrictive and could unintentionally harm California's economy and local communities.
Understanding AB 98
AB 98 aims to address concerns about health and environmental impacts from warehouse operations by imposing strict regulations on warehouse locations and operations. However, the requirements, such as mandating zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) standards by 2028, are not practically achievable due to current energy infrastructure constraints in California. This unrealistic timeline would impose significant burdens on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
Impact on the Inland Empire
The Inland Empire exemplifies the potential pitfalls of AB 98. Our logistics industry is a major economic driver, and the bill’s stringent buffer zone requirements and truck route mandates would drastically reduce available land for logistics use. This could push businesses out of state, leading to job losses and economic downturns in our region.
Local Solutions Over State Mandates
We believe that local communities are best equipped to make decisions that balance economic growth with environmental and health concerns. AB 98’s approach undermines local governments' authority to regulate land use and manage growth effectively. Instead of a one-size-fits-all state mandate, we advocate for empowering local governments to continue regulating warehouse development to serve their communities best.
Economic Implications
AB 98 would strain the state budget with its costly requirements and restrictive measures. The push for ZEV standards and other mandates could necessitate substantial state investment in infrastructure and incentives, with the added risk of businesses leaving California, resulting in job losses and reduced tax revenue.
Our Position
While the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce supports efforts to enhance environmental and community health, AB 98’s rigid restrictions present significant challenges and take away local control from our cities and counties. To protect the Inland Empire's businesses and communities, the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce has joined the IECA in requesting a VETO of AB 98. Governor Newsom has until September 30 to decide whether to sign or veto the bill, and at the time of writing this article, the Governor has taken no action.
Haven for Horses Rescue, Inc.
Happy Trails Funeral Parlor
BioLife Plasma Services
Eagle Villas 55+
CUTTINGS
#I Love theHD
Top Cat
High Desert PACE
Victorville Army Recruiting
Patricio and Sandra’s Bracero Haven (PSBH)
Love Beauty Suites
MarSell Wellness Center Victorville
Toppings (optional)
Ingredients
From Jessica Borzilleri with Bellview Hospice Care, Inc.
1-Costco rotisserie chicken pulled apart
1/2 yellow onion, diced
2-3 cloves garlic minced 24oz Chicken broth
2-15oz cans, great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
2-4oz cans diced green chilies (hot or mild)
1-15oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
Give athese try!
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cumin
3/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup half and half
Sliced jalapeños, Sliced avocados, Dollop of sour cream, Minced fresh cilantro, Tortilla strips or crumbled chips, Shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese
Directions
Add a tbs of butter and a tbs of olive oil to a large soup pot. Heat over medium heat, add onions, cook for 4-5 minutes, then add garlic for one minute stirring often.
Add salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne Pepper stir Add chicken broth.
Bring to a boil, add softened cream cheese, stir until all is smooth, add half-and-half, and stir well. Let simmer for a few minutes.
Add great northern beans, green chilies, corn, and rotisserie chicken, stir well and serve with toppings of choice. Enjoy!
Directions
Ingredients
From Stefanie Montoya with Options For Youth
1 Bottle Whipped Vodka – If you can’t find whipped, try vanilla.
1 Bottle Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé
1 Bottle (2 liter) Cherry 7-up –You can also use Sprite Cranberry Zero, Cranberry Ginger Ale, or any berry lemon-lime soda.
Fill a punch bowl or large pitcher with ice. Add cranberries for a festive touch.
Stir in your 3 ingredients. Pour, sip, and enjoy!
Cranberry-Rosemary Ice Cubes (Optional)
Place fresh cranberries and small sprigs of rosemary into each compartment of a large square ice cube mold. Fill the mold with water, covering the cranberries and rosemary. Place the mold in the freezer and freeze until the cubes are solid.
Ingredients
2 Cups noodles
From Brandi Lewis with Fit-2-Clean
1 Large can of tuna
1 Can/jar of mushrooms
1 Can of peas
1 Can mushroom soup
1 Can evaporated milk
Salt and pepper to taste Cheddar/Swiss cheese
(Both optional)
Ingredients
7 (Regular size) cans of chili - With or without beans is up to your personal preference
3 Bars of cream cheese
Directions
Cook noodles. Drain tuna and mix it with the remaining ingredients.
Top with grated cheese. Cook for 30 minutes at 350°.
From Jenny Flores with The GHDCC
Directions
In a large crock pot, add cream cheese and chili.
Cook on high for 2 hours or until the cheese is soft melted, stirring occasionally.
Serve with tortilla chips or any other chip of choice and enjoy!
MAYORS’ MESSAGES
MAYOR GABRIEL REYES - ADELANTO
The City of Adelanto continues to make great progress across multiple sectors, with economic development remaining a top priority in our efforts to create a vibrant and sustainable community.
Recent milestones include the entitlement of over 3 million square feet of logistics and manufacturing warehousing, along with the construction of an 18inch, one-and-a-half-mile water pressure line to service the new industrial park. This project is set to generate over 500 temporary and permanent jobs for the City of Adelanto and surrounding areas. Investments like these, combined with the development of new community amenities such as the park at Chamberlaine Way and Jonathan Street, demonstrate the City’s dedication to fostering both economic growth and quality of life for residents and businesses alike.
The groundbreaking of the new park on September 28th marks yet another step forward. Featuring a splash pad, basketball court, jungle gym, exercise equipment, and shaded areas, the park will serve as a premier destination for families and visitors, further enhancing Adelanto’s appeal for future development. As the City continues to grow, these projects build the foundation for a thriving, family-friendly community. The City is also making significant strides in housing development through our application for the Prohousing Designation Program under the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). Over the last two years, Adelanto has worked diligently to align our local policies with state housing goals. This designation would increase our eligibility for competitive state funding for housing and infrastructure projects, further strengthening our development capabilities and supporting future business and residential growth. Adelanto is poised for a bright future, and we look forward to the continued support and partnership of our local business community. Learn more at ci.adelanto.ca.us
MAYOR SCOTT NASSIF - APPLE VALLEY
As always, the Town of Apple Valley continually supports our business community. We remain committed to fostering growth, creating opportunities, and making Apple Valley “A Better Way of Life” for all who live and work here.
Significant progress is being made on the High Desert’s first ground-up Sprouts Farmers Market, with grading already underway at the site on Bear Valley Road, just east of Apple Valley Road. In addition, plans have been submitted for Hobby Lobby, Marshalls, and Five Below. These exciting and highly anticipated businesses will soon call Apple Valley home, bringing new shopping options to our community.
We are excited to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for Captain Joseph McConnell Jr., USAF Park, taking place on October 9th at 8 a.m. This long-awaited park, made possible through grant funding, will be a significant addition to our community, providing new recreational opportunities while honoring the legacy of Captain McConnell, a triple jet ace.
As part of the upcoming November ballot, Measure P will be presented to Apple Valley residents. This is a public safety and town infrastructure measure. To ensure residents have a clear understanding of Measure P and its potential impacts, the Town will be hosting two additional town hall meetings: one tele town hall on October 1st at 6 p.m. and another in-person meeting on October 10th at 6 p.m. in the Apple Valley Conference Center. These meetings will provide detailed information and answer any questions from the community.
We look forward to seeing you at our holiday events, including the Spooktacular, Holiday Craft Fair, and annual Tree Lighting. Visit www.applevalley.org to check out all the events we have planned for the final quarter of 2024. As you enjoy the festivities, we also encourage you to support our local small businesses by choosing to Shop Local this holiday season.
Learn more
MAYOR LARRY BIRD
- HESPERIA
This year marks a significant phase in urban planning with the City’s first General Plan update in a decade. The plan, shaped through extensive community input, outlines the City’s development strategy for land use, housing, transportation, and environmental management. Set for final adoption later this year, this plan is designed to steer Hesperia toward sustainable growth and enhanced community well-being.
As part of this commitment to growth, the City continues to attract new businesses and industries that contribute to local economic development. In mid-April, the City Council approved the development of the Kiss Logistics Center, a 655,468-square-foot manufacturing facility that will produce various beauty products. Located west of Highway 395 near Phelan Road, this multi-million-dollar investment is expected to create approximately 1,100 construction-related jobs and, once complete, over 620 permanent full-time jobs for residents.
In line with this expansion, the City has launched efforts to attract more retail businesses based on community feedback. Earlier this year, the City conducted a survey to assess retail preferences, and residents expressed a desire for more family entertainment, sit-down restaurants, and major retailers. This valuable input is shaping the City’s current retail attraction strategies. Retail space transformations continue to enhance the local commercial landscape. The vacant space formerly occupied by Carrow’s and The Country Kitchen on Main Street and I Avenue is now home to a new IHOP restaurant. The approximately 4,733-square-foot building underwent significant exterior and interior renovations, including replacing the existing kitchen and dining areas. New coffee ventures are set to brew in Hesperia. A Starbucks drive-thru is planned to be constructed in the Stater Bros. shopping center on Main Street and Maple Avenue, and Dutch Bros Coffee will replace the former China Palace location at the Cardenas shopping center on Main Street and Eleventh Avenue. On the City’s west end, McDonald’s and Popeyes will soon join the dining options at Mariposa Road and Fashion Court. As Hesperia continues to grow, these developments highlight the City’s dedication to enhancing local amenities and providing more opportunities for residents.
MAYOR ELIZABETH BECERRA - VICTORVILLE
In this update, I’m pleased to report on the progress of our 110-unit Wellness Center at the heart of our strategy to reduce homelessness in Victorville. Since the Center opened last December, we’ve already transitioned more than 75 people to permanent housing.
Another important evaluation of the Center is the number of people who have entered the Center to receive the many wraparound services designed to help them stabilize their lives. So far, we’ve had 433 intakes. This includes 417 adults and 16 children.
Of these clients served, 67 percent have been disabled adults, 36 percent have had a substance use disorder, and 48 percent have been chronically homeless – meaning they were homeless for more than one year and have some sort of disability such as a mental illness, chronic health condition, or physical disability.
Our Homeless Engagement Team continues to outreach to Victorville’s homeless to connect them to the Wellness Center and other helpful resources. Recently, the Wellness Center received a boost in the form of a $200,000 grant from the Kaiser Foundation to support the recuperative care services offered at the Center. With so much positive work undertaken already, it’s hard to believe the Center has been operational for just nine months. We are very excited to continue these efforts to reduce homelessness for the benefit of our Victorville Community.
We’re also continuing with our plan to build a new police station in Victorville, which will enable us to make further additions to our police force. Our City Council recently approved an update to the contract with LPA Inc. for the design of the new police station and civic plaza to be located in the vacant land across from the car dealerships on Civic Drive. We’re grateful to the County of San Bernardino for their contribution of $3.7 million to cover the cost of the land acquisition and design.
NEW CHAMBER INVESTORS
A.C.C.E.P.T. Family Counseling, Inc. (760) 949-2819
SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS FOR YOUR REFERRALS!
Valerie Barros – Neutral Zone Divorce & Family Mediation, Inc.
Gwen Bedics - Global Credit Union
Cassie Martin - Paradise Family Realty, Inc.
Dana Hernandez – Rock’n Our Disabilities Foundation
Resa Barillas - Assemblyman Juan Carrillo, 39th District
Chris Lamoreaux - Coldwell Banker Home Source
* Dan Tate - Majestic Land & Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation
Paul McClain - High Desert Venues
Purple Wendy Ramey - Coldwell Banker Home Source
Carol Martinez - Saint Martin High Desert
Suzan Wilcox-Hobby - High Desert Boss Moms
* Brandee Zaragoza - Moses House Ministries
Liz McGiffin - Choice Medical Group
Jessica Borzilleri - Bellview Hospice Care, Inc.
*THESE MEMBERS REFERRED MORE THAN ONE BUSINESS!
No, this isn’t another article about how you can turn your hobby into a side hustle. But having a hobby can be great for your existing business. It may not feel like you have enough time for a hobby, but here’s why you should prioritize hobby time (or time spent cultivating one).
Why You (and Your Business) Need a Hobby - Hobbies aren’t time sucks. Having a hobby can significantly enhance your business and your well-being. “Hobbying” does not steal you away from your work. It contributes to it in several ways, including:
Enhancing Your Creativity and Innovation - Hobbies allow us to play in something we enjoy. They are ideal outlets for creative expression, which can translate into innovative ideas for your business. When you explore activities outside of your work, you can develop new perspectives and solutions that may not arise in a traditional business setting. Increased creativity can lead to unique products or services that differentiate your brand. When you take time for something other than work, your mind relaxes, and you can become better at problem-solving.
Relieving Stress and Improving Well-being - Hobbies provide a necessary break from the pressures of running a business. They can reduce stress, improve mental health, and increase overall happiness. A balanced mental state enhances decision-making and productivity. The change in focus from business to pleasure helps you unwind and use different parts of your brain.
Improving Networking Opportunities - Participating in hobbies (and the events surrounding them) can introduce you to new people and potential customers. These social interactions provide valuable networking opportunities, collaborations, and even new business ideas. Building relationships in a relaxed environment can foster trust and loyalty among potential clients. To meet new people, you could take a class in your new hobby, go to a hobby-based meet-up, join a Facebook group around your hobby, or teach a class on your hobby.
Developing New Skills - Hobbies often require learning new skills, which can benefit your business. You may also learn from other creators on social media and apply some of those ideas to your business’s social media. Additionally, hobbies can improve skills such as time management, organization, and problem-solving, which are crucial for running a successful business.
Validating the Market - If you consider turning your hobby into a business, it can serve as a form of
market validation. If friends and family are interested in purchasing your hobby-related creations, it indicates a potential market demand. This initial interest can provide the confidence needed to take the next steps toward entrepreneurship or launching an additional product or service in your current business.
Sometimes a hobby can have a strong tie into your business. For instance, a graphic designer may use their own photography hobby to generate images for clients.
Which leads us to…
Adding Financial Benefits
Transforming a hobby into a business can also lead to financial gains. Many people have successfully monetized their hobbies, creating a profitable income stream while doing something they love. If managed effectively, hobbies can provide financial relief and evolve into a significant income source.
Even if you don’t monetize your hobby, it may lend itself to creating a differentiator for you with your existing business. For instance, if you’re a plumber who enjoys painting, you could paint a mural on your van or send thank you cards to clients on one of your watercolor cards. Standing out in the market helps people remember you.
You may be thinking this is great, but you don’t have time for anything but your business. We know you’re busy but as we’ve just seen, taking a break is beneficial for your business. Here are a few ways you can find the time for a hobby.
You DO Have Time for a Hobby - Reclaim your precious moments with these ideas:
Think in Weeks, Not Days. Instead of squeezing hobbies into a daily schedule, look at your weekly calendar. Identify a few hours each week when you can dedicate time to something you love. Then schedule them in as a standing appointment.
Learn to Say No. If your schedule is overflowing, it’s okay to decline additional commitments or delegate tasks. This frees up time for the activities that bring you joy. Understand the difference between being busy and being productive. Prioritize the things in your business that move the dial the most.
Re-evaluate Autopilot Mode. We all have moments when we zone out on social media or TV. (Hello, Netflix, my old friend.) Be mindful of how you spend this downtime, and see if you can swap some of it for hobbies. The problem with TV and screen time is that you can spend hours doing those things and still not feel like you’ve had a break. We tend to be unaware of that time. Instead, switch some of it for hobbies. Not only will you feel like you’ve had a break, you’ll get some mental health benefits from it as well.
Embrace Micro Breaks Short breaks during the workday can boost productivity. Your day is likely full of moments when you’re waiting for something—a meeting, an appointment, a call, etc. Use these moments to do something enjoyable, like listening to music or reading during lunch. The key to making this happen is having your hobby/relaxing activity ready to go when you have micro break time. If you don’t have it ready, you’ll likely reach for scrolling through social instead. And that’s not a break.
Balancing the zaniness of running a business with a hobby can lead to many benefits for your mental health and your business. Don’t think of a hobby as time away from work. Think of it as a way to investme in your top employee—you.
Christina Metcalf is a writer/ghostwriter who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She loves road trips, hates exclamation points, and she knows her reading hobby makes her a better writer. | Medium: @christinametcalf | Facebook: @tellyoursto getemtalking | Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor | LinkedIn: @christinagsmith
FIRST WEDNESDAY IN DECEMBER
VICTORVILLE CONFERENCE CENTER 7:30 AM
SPONSOR BENEFITS
Podium time at event (5 minutes)
Customized Step & Repeat banner with Presenting Sponsor logo & Chamber logo
Special logo recognition on event signage, media advertising, and inside Insight Magazine
Full page ad (5.5”W x 8.5”H)
150 word description in event program
Recogonition at Valley Morning Insight
PRESENTING SPONSOR
EXECUTIVE SPONSOR TOAST SPONSOR
Special company name recognition on event signage, media advertising, and inside Insight Magazine
1/2 page ad (4.25”W x 2.75”H)
Billboard Ad for VMI (10”W x 7.5”H)
CHAMBER CALENDAR
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
NO COFFEE BREAK - Indigenous Peoples’ Day Weekend
Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening - Be Unique Ice Cream, LLC.
12:00pm
Ribbon Cutting & New Location - Neutral Zone Divorce & Family Mediation, Inc.
12:00pm
Legislative Action Committee Via Zoom
9:00am
Coffee Break *NEW LOCATION*
Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
State of the City - City of Hesperia Reservations Required Courtyard by Marriott 11:30am
Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening - Sol Radiology 4:00pm
Coffee Break
Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
Open House & New Location - Keystone Industrial Medicine 12:00pm
Coffee Break Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
Valley Morning Insight - Reservations Required Victorville Conference Center 7:30am
Coffee Break Update - Reservations Required Via Zoom 9:00am
Veterans Day - GHDCC Offices Closed
Ambassador Committee MeetingClosed Group TBD 12:00pm
Coffee Break Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
Legislative Action Committee Via Zoom 9:00am
Coffee Break Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
Thanksgiving Holiday - Chamber Offices Closed
Valley Morning Insight - Accolade AwardsRerservations Required Victorville Conference Center 7:30am
Coffee Break Update - Reservations Required Via Zoom 9:00am
Ambassador Committee MeetingClosed Group TBD 12:00pm
Coffee Break Choice Medical Group - Apple Valley 7:00am
