The Best of Oceanside Special Edition Business Journal - Stories of Unity and Resilience

Best of

SUM MER 2020

OCEANSIDE Q U A R T E R LY

J O U R N A L

e c n e i l i s e R d n a y t i n U f o s e i r o t S BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY NEWS

6

4

Resilience: A Ship to Weather the Storm

Healthcare Heroes

18

Frontwave Credit Union: Values in Action

34

20 Flowers of Gratitude

Pryor Products Partners With General Motors and Martinrea To Meet Demand For Ventilator Rolling Cart Units

EDITION SPONSORED BY

26

ProduceGood and Our Community During the COVID-19 Pandemic

A PUBLICATION OF THE OCEANSIDE CHA MBER OF COMMERCE

ScrippsHealthExpress HealthExpress Scripps Same-day, Same-day,walk-in walk-inclinics clinicswith with eveningand andweekend weekendhours hours evening With our Scripps HealthExpress Oceanside locations you can walk in,in, call ahead toto speak toto triage With our Scripps HealthExpress Oceanside locations you can walk call ahead speak a triage With our Scripps HealthExpress Oceanside locations you can walk in, call ahead to speak to aa triage nurse, oror visit usus online toto view the number ofof people waiting toto bebe seen and hold your place inin line. nurse, visit online view the number people waiting seen and hold your place line. nurse, or visit us online to view the number of people waiting to be seen and hold your place in line.

Open seven days week for minor illnesses and injuries: Open seven days a week for minor illnesses and injuries: Open seven days aa week for minor illnesses and injuries: Scripps Coastal Medical Scripps Coastal Medical Scripps Coastal Medical Center, Oceanside Center, Oceanside Center, Oceanside 4318 Mission Ave. 4318 Mission Ave. 4318 Mission Ave.

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Leaders Shine in Time of Crisis

By Scott Ashton, CEO Oceanside Chamber of Commerce

QUARTERLY JOURNAL OCE A N S IDE CH A MB E R OF COMME RCE QUA R T E R LY NE W S LE T T E R S UMME R 2 0 2 0

Recent months have been a painful time for much of our business community. But with that pain, has come the opportunity for leaders to emerge and for businesses to learn flexibility and adaptation.

Oceanside Quarterly Journal is published by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce in 4 editions: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall.

This newsletter is available at the Chamber office, local businesses, libraries, Sunset Market, and in digital format on the Chamber’s website.

CONTACT US

928 N. Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 722-1534 info@oceansidechamber.com www.OceansideChamber.com Produced and published by the staff of the Oceanside Chamber Copyright Oceanside Chamber of Commerce All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2020 Design: Scott Ashton and Tiffany Smith

INSIDE THIS EDITION

Healthcare Heroes Resilience: A Ship to Weather the Storm 11 Home Sewn Heroes 15 Local Gym Owner Fearlessly Advocates for Oceanside’s Small Businesses Community 16 Boys and Girls Club of Oceanside: Filling the Need 18 Frontwave Credit Union: Values in Action 20 Pryor Products Partners to Meet Demand for Ventilator Rolling Cart Units 23 Economic Development Update 26 ProduceGood and Our Community During the COVID-19 Pandemic 32 Genentech Donates $50,000 to North County Cares 34 Flowers of Gratitude 4 6

In this edition of the Best of Oceanside Quarterly Journal, we have shared a few of those stories, but please know there are many more stories of unity and resilience in our City. If you follow us on social media, you will have seen dozens of these stories in recent weeks.

On an internal level, I am extraordinarily proud of the Chamber staff’s ability to quickly adapt our organization to the changing needs of our business community. By mid-March, it became quite evident that the Chamber’s current business model was going to need to radically change in order for us to guide our business community through the COVID-19 crisis. Our stellar staff members did not miss a beat, and I want to take some time to recognize their efforts.

Our Membership/Advertising team, made up of Emerald Lowe and Hunter Shepard, quickly transitioned to an Outreach Team, allowing us to make contact with several hundred businesses to learn about their needs and make them aware of our vast array of informational resources.

Our Finance and HR Manager, Tracy Chin, became very well versed in many of the HR issues and loan programs that were suddenly very relevant and important to our businesses. Our Event Coordinator, Kristi Hawthorne has put events aside for now and has taken on the role of our primary writer for the Best of Oceanside Journal. I hope you’ll read every article she wrote for this edition.

Hana Gilbert, our Communications Coordinator took the lead on arguably the most critical role that a Chamber can play in a time of crisis, syphoning through and disseminating key information to our business community in a timely manner. This has included creating a special weekly “COVID-19” Enewsletter, regularly updating the COVID-19 resource page on our website and sharing critical information through our various social media channels. continued on page 8

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following Chamber Partners for their generous financial contributions to the Chamber’s program of work.

EMERALD PARTNER

PLATINUM PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

BRONZE PARTNERS

GK Asset Management, LLC

For more information about how your company can participate in the Partner Program, please contact Scott Ashton at 760-722-1534

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SDG&E® is proud to be your energy partner. In addition to delivering renewable, safe and reliable energy, we also support many savings programs for our residential and business customers.

To learn more visit sdge.com. © 2020 San Diego Gas & Electric Company. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. © 2020 San Diego Gas & Electric Company. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Executive Committee:

Debra Allen Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary & Crematory, FD-234 Chair Haley Wonsley Intesa Communications Group Chair Elect Bill Birnie Frontwave Credit Union Immediate Past Chair Marva Bledsoe Non-Profit Management Consulting Secretary/Treasurer Joshua W. Van Orden Oceanside Therapy Group Vice Chair Bob Waite AFLAC - Bob Waite Vice Chair Kevin Witowich BBVA Compass Investments Vice Chair

Board of Directors:

Charlie Anderson Privateer Coal Fire Pizza Nazeli Dertsakian Genentech Julie Hiltsley GM Mortgage Kristen Huyck MiraCosta College Christine Lee California State University San Marcos Robert Lustig Military Automotive Assistance Program (MAAP) Maria Mingalone Oceanside Museum of Art Ernie Prieto Oceanside Sea Center Katie Scanlan San Diego Gas & Electric

Jessica Shrader Tri-City Medical Center Rick Wright MainStreet Oceanside

Advisors:

Col. Philip Antekeier United States Marine Corps Jonathan Borrego City of Oceanside Leslee Gaul Visit Oceanside Conference & Visitor Bureau

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce 928 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 722-1534 • www.OceansideChamber.com www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Staff:

Scott Ashton Chief Executive Officer Tracy Chin Finance and HR Administrator Kristi Hawthorne Director of Events Hana Gilbert Communications and Customer Service Coordinator Emerald Lowe Director of Membership and OYPN Hunter Shepard Membership Development Representative

@OsideCaChamber

@OsideCaChamber

@OsideCaChamber

@OsideCaChamber

@OceansideChamber

@OceansideChamber

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 3

TRI- CIT Y MEDIC AL CENTER ’ S

Healthcare Heros

By Kristi Hawthorne For nearly 60 years, Tri-City Medical Center has provided high quality healthcare services for the sick and injured of our region. Located adjacent to Highway 78 at the intersection of the cities of Oceanside, Carlsbad and Vista – the “Tri” in Tri-City – the medical center is renowned for its heart attack, stroke care and orthopedics programs, a testament to the incredibly talented and dedicated individuals who choose to work there and serve patients 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in March, our society was forced to face a challenge unprecedented in our lifetimes and a light was shined on the important work of the men and women who make up our healthcare system. Banners and signs thanking our frontline healthcare heroes appeared throughout the community and on social media. When a national

4 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) became apparent, the business community and local residents sprang to action, retooling their machinery to build life saving equipment, donating surpluss medical supplies, and sewing homemade face masks.

Meal donations poured in to Tri-City and other medical centers from restaurants, businesses, and thankful community members—a show of gratitude to those healthcare providers who put their lives on the line every day to care for those in greatest need.

In an effort to put a name and a face to some of those frontline heroes, the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce would like to highlight several of the physicians, nurses, and support staff who have committed their lives to provide compassionate care for those suffering from COVID-19 and who go above and beyond the call of duty every day to serve our community.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Dr. Richard Smith – Infectious Disease (ID) Dr. Richard Smith is an infectious disease expert who has been leading Tri-City Medical Center’s physician advisory council. In this role, Dr. Smith monitors the everchanging scientific literature regarding COVID-19 and brings forward best practice treatments to help Tri-City physicians provide the highest quality care for all COVID-19 patients.

Dr. Smith began working at Tri-City Medical Center with a specialty in infectious disease medicine nearly 15 years ago after completing his fellowship from the University of California, San Diego. For the past three months Dr. Smith has been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic response, stating, “This is what we train for, but I never thought we would face Lauren Griffin, RN – Emergency Department (ED) Lauren Griffin studied nursing at San Diego State University and started working at Tri-City Medical Center in 2015 as a registered nurse. Lauren consistently volunteers to care for COVID-19 patients in the Emergency Department’s isolation unit, wearing full PPE for many hours at a time, and provides outstanding care to some of the sickest patients in our community. Lauren is recognized for her dedication to her patients, coworkers, and the community alike.

Vilma Polanco Diaz – Environmental Services (EVS) Vilma’s work ethic and smile comfort patients and staff at the medical center. Working at Tri-City for over a year and a half, Vilma brings a smile to her patients’ faces. “Patients are happy to see me come into their rooms to clean,” according to Vilma. “The work I do is very important to me and I’m so happy to be working here serving patients.” www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

a pandemic, especially a novel virus.”

Describing the past several months as “scary, interesting and stressful,” Dr. Smith notes that the virus has brought on a new way of thinking, explaining that he must do whatever works, sometimes involving multiple treatments approaches at the same time. “Since this is a new virus that we have never seen before there is never 100% certainty,” he added.

Dr. Smith, along with Tri-City’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Gene Ma, formed a COVID-19 Committee that meets regularly to discuss relevant info, to study and share papers and publications, and to stay upto-date on all new regulations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Smith urges the community to “keep up our vigilant behavior because this is not over. We must continue to take care of each other.”

Dr. Smith is still seeing new COVID-19 patients daily.

Mariana Garcia De Maldonado – Environmental Services (EVS) Mariana works in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Vilma Polanco Diaz works in Telemetry at TriCity Medical Center, areas where the majority of the contact isolation patients— including COVID-19 positive patients—receive care. As environmental services workers, both are responsible for cleanliness within the medical center. According to their manager, Hope Chaney, Mariana and Vilma provide an incredible level of service to keep the sickest patients’ rooms exceptionally clean every day. They care for the patients’ surroundings like all patients are their family members.

Mariana, who has worked for Tri-City for 14 years, says of her role in the pandemic response, “My job is very important to me. I work to provide a clean and safe environment not only for the patients but for staff as well.”

For more information about Tri-City Medical Center’s COVID-19 response efforts, visit tricitymed.org/covid19

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 5

resilience North County Food Bank: A Ship to Weather the Storm

By Kristi Hawthorne The North County Food Bank has been feeding hungry people and families for years. It’s what they do and they do it well. They distribute food to senior programs, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, students and school programs. When the COVID19 crisis hit and food demands grew overnight, their staff and volunteers didn’t panic. As the need grew, they simply rose to a whole new level of readiness.

Jim Floros, CEO, said he has been so impressed by his staff and volunteers and their ability to overcome obstacles and adapt to the rising need. Their great reputation in the community and their preparedness has paid great dividends as they adapt to meet new challenges.

Floros and the Food Bank’s vice presidents collectively have 47 years of non-profit experience, with 800 years of collective experience in the entire staff. The North County Food Bank is considered one of the top two non-profits in the State of California. He credits this to their like mindedness towards a common goal, feeding people. They seek to hire people who have the mindset to create and cultivate a culture of productivity and purpose, while providing people both food and dignity. Floros also credits the excellence in which their nonprofit is run. Poorly run organizations

6 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

can eek out an existence in the best of times, but flaws are exposed in crisis. However, his staff pivoted quickly to meet the crisis head on. The Food Bank went from providing food to 350,000 people a month to 600,000 nearly overnight.

Because their sites are essential and exempt from executive order, staff and some volunteers have been working 14 to 16 hours a day since the crisis began to help meet the demand. When the crisis first began, the impact was immediate and the public started to “freak out”, hoarding toilet paper, bottled water and clearing food off grocery shelves the team realized that one aspect of their purpose would be to convey poise and respect to all those in need. Jim Floros says “we are the buffer” from the chaos and anxiety.

The Food Bank saw lines doubled, and in the midst of the crisis they sought to remove barriers to distribution. The team knew their level of preparedness and together said, “We got this”. They reached out to their network of 500 partners and sought to open supply chains. They developed a plan for four mass distribution sites in stadiums, fairgrounds, etc. at which people could drive through to receive food. They distributed 700,000 pounds of food in just two weeks and encountered 1,000 cars at a time, turning away another 2,000 to 3,000.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

families a day. Food Bank staff has developed a popup drive through for people, which is a mellow, well organized and orderly operation, handling 200 to 300 cars a day. Floros said they want a “dignified and calm approach” to feeding people, not a desperate frenzy.

The public response has been great with letters and emotional notes expressing thankfulness.

Some, who have never had to ask for help, now find themselves in a position of great need. Others, who once had to ask for help, are sending in donations and paying it forward.

Adversity brings out the best and the worst in people, and the North County Food Bank is doing their best to be the best. When the storm of demand and panic set in, Floros knew they had built “a ship to weather the storm”. Their goal was to not only distribute food, but to serve clients with dignity. They brainstormed and went to their super partners with a grass roots approach to develop a plan to help them meet the 67 percent increase of demand for food items. From March through April they distributed 6 ½ million pounds of food…. In a typical year they would distribute $1 million worth of food.

Because so many are out of work due to the shutdown, people are in greater need for food than ever before. In the first 8 weeks of the shutdown they have distributed $3 million and expected to reach $5 million by the end of May. The Food Bank distributes USDA products, donations of food and food they purchase wholesale, including “ugly produce.” They also implement a unique repacking program wherein they receive large totes of rice, beans and oatmeal, which they repack for distribution. The machine within their facility can repack 2,000 bags of food an hour. To meet the increased demand, they are looking into purchasing a new machine that would repackage 5,000 bags an hour.

Floros said this isn’t a race, “This is a marathon,” and they are in it for the long haul. They have 70 employees and have added staff. They have over 20,000 registered volunteers – with 30,000 volunteer visits a year. The value of their volunteers equals $1.8 million in free labor which is essential to keep the organization operating smoothly and serving so many.

They are also proud of the fact that 93 cents of every dollar goes back to the community. The gold standard for non-profits is 80 percent.

Floros says the work is exhausting, exciting and exhilarating. One personal challenge for him is not being burned out and taking time off to regenerate.

And while rest is necessary, he knows that many have stepped up in huge ways with great sacrifices of time because they have the same heart and goal… dedication to making the world a better place and leaving a legacy of giving.

The North County Food Bank updates their website every week with over 100 distribution sites. If people need help they can visit sdfoodbank.org/gethelp or simply call 2-1-1.

If you are able to help at this time The North County Food Bank will use your donation wisely. For every $1 donated, 5 meals are provided.

www.oceansidetherapygroup.com

“Where Families Come First” • Pediatric Speech/Language Therapy • Pediatric Occupational Therapy • Pediatric Physical Therapy

760.529.4975

760.529.4761 fax info@oceansidetherapygroup.com 3355 Mission Avenue, Ste. 123, Oceanside, CA 92058

Four years ago they opened a 30,000 square foot facility in Vista and tripled their amount of service.

Their “client choice pantry” before Covid-19 saw 10 www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 7

Leaders Shine in Time of Crisis.. continued from page 2 Our partnership with other North County business organizations was a tremendous bright spot for us as well. We teamed up with 8-10 other organizations, mostly Chambers, to advocate for businesses at every level of government. Most importantly, advocating for more small businesses to be allowed to open under the County health guidelines.

One of the partnerships that I am most proud of is the North County Cares program created in conjunction with the Vista Chamber of Commerce and San Diego North Economic Development Council. The purpose of the program is to support both families in need and the North County restaurants who have borne the brunt of the impacts of mandated closures and social distancing orders.

Donations have been used to purchase gift cards at participating Oceanside and Vista chamber member restaurants. The gift cards are distributed to representatives at the Oceanside and Vista Unified School Districts who are using the cards to provide meals to families in need in our community. You can read more about this program in this edition of our Quarterly Journal.

Additionally, I would like to recognize our elected officials at all levels of government for their leadership and accessibility during this crisis. Congressman Levin, Senator Bates, Assemblymember Boerner Horvath, Supervisor Desmond, Mayor Weiss and Councilmember Keim all participated in one or more of the Chamber’s Emerging Issues Forums to provide important updates to our businesses on the COVID-19 crisis.

Our City leadership, including Council and Staff have been inspiring in their dedication to helping our business community weather the COVID-19 storm. Beginning with the quick formation of the Oceanside Economic Recovery Task Force, our leaders determined to remove any roadblocks that businesses might face in the recovery process. Michelle Geller, the City’s Economic Development manager has been a key leader in the City’s efforts to make sure Oceanside maintains a business friendly environment.

Our Chamber staff has been grateful to have such a responsive point of contact at the City when our businesses are in need of answers.

It has been an honor and privilege to see our community and our region come together so effectively to serve our businesses during this crisis.

It gives me great hope for what we can accomplish together in better times.

VIRTUAL

Networking Events

Virtual Networking Events are open to both Oceanside Chamber members and prospective members. We are offering these events free of charge, however, encourage attendees to enjoy local takeout. *Virtual events are subject to change according to health orders. Please visit OceansideChamber.com for up-to-date information and registration.

VIRTUAL FIRST TUESDAY COFFEE

Connect with like-minded businesses over coffee, tea or whatever your morning fix is on-the-go. Attendees will have the opportunity to share a 1-minute introduction and exclusive access to the participant list following the event. This event is currently powered by Zoom and is open to both members and prospective members.

Online Event via Zoom • 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM July 7, August 4, September 1

VIRTUAL BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Grab your favorite beer, wine or spirit from somewhere local and engage in a casual, virtual meet-up with other likeminded businesses in the area after work. This event is free and open to all businesses in the area. The only cost to you is your choice of beverage! Registrants will receive Zoom meeting details upon registration.

Online Event via Zoom • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM July 14, September 8

VIRTUAL BUSINESS MIXER

Join us for an evening of virtual networking. Attendees will have the opportunity to safely socialize with others and have exclusive access to the registration list to connect following the event. You’re encouraged to support our local restaurants, wineries and breweries. We are pleased to offer this event free via Zoom, however, ask that attendees consider a donation to our select nonprofit of the month.

Online Event via Zoom • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM August 27, October 22 Check upcoming dates at www.occmixer.com 8 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Grows

the economy, food, schools, families and more.

An approved farm community designed for Oceanside, North River Farms creates a new, sustainable farm and a local fresh food supply chain. It will create approximately 700 permanent jobs and contribute millions in funding for local schools, parks, public services and traffic improvements.

www.oceansidegrown.com

Ad paid for by Oceansiders for Jobs, Health, and Safety, a coalition of Farmers, Firefighters, Business Leaders & Affordable Housing Advocates, sponsored by The NRF Project Owner. Committee major funding from The NRF Project Owner. www.oceansidechamber.com | Spring 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 9

local

Sew O’side: Home Sewn Heroes

By Kristi Hawthorne Amanda Gerard’s adaptability and creativity are attributes that she has put to good use. As an avid sewer and designer, she founded a custom clothing boutique in 2018 featuring unique designs with colorful fabrics.

Decades ago sewing was taught at school in classes called “Home Economics” and generations of students learned to sew by hand and machine. Those classes have gone the way of shorthand and typing classes (if anyone remembers shorthand and typewriters!)

Amanda saw both a need and an opportunity to help others learn to sew.

Sew O’side was Gerard’s inspiration to teach sewing through workshops, lessons, “sewing camps” and even sewing birthday parties. She opened a studio off Mission Avenue where children and adults are taught the fundamentals of sewing. Machines are provided and choices of fabrics and projects can be selected.

Sewers of all abilities are encouraged to use their imagination.

With the advent of COVID-19, Sew O’side was no

10 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

longer able to offer classes. However, Amanda saw a need and switched gears. She began providing materials for home sewers to make their own masks due to the scarcity of the facial coverings needed by essential employees.

With the requirement of all persons 2 years and up required to wear masks implement on May 1st, demand has been even higher. The CDC has recommended the wearing of cloth face coverings in public settings as surgical masks or N-95 respirators are needed for healthcare workers and first responders. They also recommend that cloth face masks be washed on a regular basis.

By the first week of May Sew O’side had produced over 4,000 masks and donated over 1,500 to local medical and essential facilities. In addition, they have handed out 1,000 face mask kits and sent out close to 5,000yds of elastic. Amanda says she cannot even begin to tally the yards and yards of fabric used to make the masks.

Amanda and her team are proud to be a supplier of masks in a variety of colors and patterns that are comfortable to wear, easy to clean and at an affordable price.

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At work with loved ones We workyour togetherfamily with you asand a teamyour to treat your addiction and the onesMindful to customize aRejuvenation holistic treatment planwe for your recovery.

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How do we start?Our With acustomized visit to our our clinic. We customized recovery plans a areholistic comprised of treatment a unique combination of underlying to customize plan for your traditional rehabilitation synergistically paired with holistic treatments, are located on Pier View Way in downtown Oceanside, just a few recovery plans are comprised of a unique combination of traditional including activities such as Meditation, Pilates, Art and Music Therapy. blocks from the beach. Please schedule a visit with us and learn about rehabilitation synergistically paired with holistic treatments, including As a fully accredited behavioral health outpatient clinic, we are our alternative treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. activities such as Meditation, Pilates, Art and Music Therapy. As a fully We treat the whole you. Not just the addiction.

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blocks from the beach. Please schedule a visit with us and learn about Please schedule a visit with us and learn about our are our alternative treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. alternative treatment for drug and alcohol addiction.

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including such as Meditation, Pilates, Music We work together with you as a team to treat Art yourand addiction andTherapy. the t plan for your recovery.

Our activities

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Withoutpatient a visit to our our clinic. We ed of a unique combination of underlying As a fully accredited behavioral health clinic, we

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 11

oypn 5 Things You Need to Know to Stay Productive While Working from Home

By Emerald Lowe Director of Membership and Oceanside Young Professionals

We have seen many changes to the business climate in our region over the past few months due to the mandated closures and stay-at-home orders. While some businesses were forced to halt their operations, we are hearing that others are busier than ever.

Many have changed the product or service they provide entirely, while others have adapted their daily business practices to meet the growing demand from consumers. As meetings move virtual, saving time and becoming more effective than traditional 1. Dedicate and Designate a Workspace – The best thing you can do to increase your productivity while working from home is to set up a designated space for work. For some, this might be a separate room in your home but for others this could be a space in your kitchen, living room, or bedroom.

The important thing to remember is that this space is somewhere you can feel organized and have access to everything you will need for your role.

2. Make Your Calendar Work for You – No matter which platform you use, your calendar is one of the best resources you can use to measure time and stay on track. It can be easy to lose notes and files when you’re scheduling appointments or meetings from home, so make sure you have an calendar set up that’s easily accessible from whichever device you’re using whether you’re at home or on-the-go. Your calendar can help you get a better vision of your schedule for the week if you are working reduced hours, but it can also serve as a reminder for important tasks or projects.

3. Schedule Your Own Rest Breaks – It can be easy to lose the entire concept of time while working from home. Our lives are hectic enough at the 12 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

face-to-face interactions, telework is becoming increasingly more popular. While the practice started out of necessity, many employees are proving they can maintain or improve on their in-office productivity from home. Remote work offers more flexibility and the convenience of not having a daily commute. While the practice will not work for every industry, we have put together a few tips to help your employees stay on track while working from home. office and bringing work home can pile on an entirely new problem – burnout. As mundane as it sounds, scheduling out your own breaks will help you keep your focus on the task at hand. You will always perform at your best when you take time for self-care.

4. Eliminate Distractions – We cannot avoid distractions like dogs, children, or delivery drivers but we can take proactive steps to mitigate distractions that come our way. Ask family members to respect your privacy and keep interruptions to a minimum and be sure to make a conscious effort to refrain from endlessly scrolling through social media feeds.

5. Communicate with Your Team – You may not see your team at the office daily, but you should still be checking in. Make sure your manager is aware of what your remote working hours will be, so they know when you are available. Be sure to reach out to fellow team members when you can to see how you can help. The more positive interactions you have from a distance, the better your employee morale will be when it is appropriate to return to working in closer settings.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

membership NEW MEMBERS March 10, 2020 – June 8, 2020 Coldwell Banker Realty 7020 Avenida Encinas Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 560-6139 https://johnredford.cbintouch.com/ Real Estate Sales Eco Industrial Solutions 180 Roymar Rd., Ste. A Oceanside, CA 92058 (760) 994-8990 www.spillbully.com Environmental Supply F45 Training Oceanside Pier 349 N. Cleveland St. Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 916-2245 www.f45training.com/oceansidepier Health and Fitness Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen 626 S. Tremont St. Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 453-2940 www.flyingpigpubkitchen.com Restaurants - American Nailuscious 3772 Mission Ave. Ste. 124 Rm. 133 Oceanside, CA 92058 (760) 583-5858 https://is.gd/nailuscious Nails Senior Care Options Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 696-3542 www.seniorcareoptions.org Senior Services SpotOn 300 California St., 4th Fl. San Francisco, CA 94104 (760) 607-2438 www.spoton.com/socal Credit Card Processing Think Marketing Results Oceanside, CA 92056 (760) 525-5058 www.thinkmarketingresults.com Marketing

RENEWING MEMBERS March 10, 2020 – June 8, 2020 41-45 Years As Member Oceanside Marine Centre Inc. 36-40 Years As Member Frontwave Credit Union Oceanside RV Resort 31-35 Years As Member AT&T Inc. Mission Animal & Bird Hospital 26-30 Years As Member Oceanside Marina Suites at Oceanside Harbor Quality Inn & Suites 21-25 Years As Member Boat Rentals of America Central Michigan University Global Campus Mastertech, Inc. Merrill Gardens at Oceanside Walmart #2494 Warner’s Truck Rental Weese Family Trusts 16-20 Years As Member BeachFront Only Vacation Rentals Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms California Bank & Trust Oceanside Rotary Club Prince of Peace Abbey Robert W. Davis, C.P.A. 11-15 Years As Member Beran and Marelly Lincoln Military Housing Motel 6 #679 Oceanside Firefighters’ Association TENTEN Oceanside Veterans Association of North County (VANC)

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

6-10 Years As Member 101 Bagels & Subs All Day Heating and Air Conditioning LLC Brookdale Carlsbad Buffalo Wild Wings California Coast Credit Union Epiphany Legal Fratelli’s Italian Kitchen Lawyer Referral Service of the San Diego County Bar Association NOVA Biologics, Inc. Prohibition Brewing Company Inc. San Diego Coffee, Tea & Spice, Inc. San Luis Rey Bakery and Restaurant Spirit of Sharing (SOS) 1-5 Years as Member Amerillum Brands - A • Light Audeo Charter School Bubbles By The Beach Center for Stress Recovery and Resilience Cinematic Arts & Sound ENJO FoxFury, LLC H.G. Fenton Company JaniExpress Knockout Pizza Lennar Homes of California Inc. – San Diego Division LOL- Life of Liberty LP Fishing Supply Milestone House Military Guides Non-Profit Management Consulting North County Financial Associates Oceanside Beach Rental Oceanside Tattoo “The Arcade” Orfila Vineyards & Winery San Diego County Water Authority Studio ACE Tap That Draft Beer Services and Tap Room Tip Top Meats & European Delicatessen, Inc. USO Camp Pendleton

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 13

The Art of Caring

There are many students and families in Oceanside that are in need of basic school/art supplies. Studio ACE has provided over 500 FREE Art Kits to members of the community…with a waiting list that keeps growing! This is all possible through generous donations from the community.

In addition to providing over 500 Free Art Kits to the community at large, Studio ACE recently provided 600 Free Art Kits to the Oceanside Unified School District (OUSD). Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, they also partnered with OUSD to give away as many Art Kits as possible to the thousands of students who

are picking up free meals each week.

The Art Kits are packed taking all necessary precautions, including wearing masks and gloves, and are filled with cool art activities and supplies…and lots of love!

To be able to provide these valuable resources to the community, ACE needs your help! Did you know just $5 will provide 3 students with Art Kits?! Please consider a donation to Studio ACE so they can continue to share the gift of art. Your donation of supplies or a monetary contribution in any amount will help keep these kits coming.

Thanking Healthcare Workers AlphaGraphics Oceanside has been at the forefront of helping businesses communicate that they are still open to customers during the statewide shutdown. The team has been working hard to adapt to safety demands ranging from signage that you can disinfect to installing protective panels at local businesses. As businesses start to reopen in Oceanside, AlphaGraphics Oceanside can help your business get noticed and get back to business. Their team has already designed social distancing assets to help businesses communicate safety protocols and that they are ready for business to resume. The social distancing assets include floor graphics, window clings, posters, retractable banners, check out signage, directional a-frame signage, hand washing and sanitizing signage, and outdoor banners.

In addition to supporting local businesses, AlphaGraphics Oceanside also wanted to say thank you to all the doctors, nurses, and first responders the best way they knew how, with a sign! The team installed a 10-foot banner in mid-April at the main entrance of Tri-City Medical Center where emergency vehicles enter and exit. “Our team wanted to give a daily thank you to our healthcare workers who are on the frontlines during this pandemic and keeping our community safe,” said Tom Guminski, owner of AlphaGraphics Oceanside. “We will be installing a few more thank you banners out in the community soon to thank the other heroes out there.”

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Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Local Gym Owner Fearlessly Advocates for Oceanside’s Small Business Community

By Hana Gilbert The Oceanside Chamber had the opportunity to sit down with MetroFlex Gym CEO/Founder, Louis Uridel. As COVID-19 restrictions forced businesses nationwide to shut their doors, Uridel took it upon himself to advocate for struggling businesses, going as far as defying the countywide shelter-in-place order and opening his local gym. Realizing this was an act of personal passion, we asked Uridel to take us through his thoughts and actions before making the decision to ultimately open his doors.

CEO/Founder Louis Uridel opened MetroFlex Gym in November of 2017 after finding Christ and deciding to turn his love for fitness into his vocation. For Uridel, his loyal members are “very much a family” explaining that his gym is still home to many of its original members. “As you can tell, I have scriptures on the wall.

It’s a very inviting place, and a lot of people come here and say they feel safe and very at peace. I always call this a House of the Lord or a House of Iron as iron sharpens iron,” states Uridel as he describes why his gym is unlike many others.

As news of COVID-19 spread and cities nationwide were issuing mandatory shelter-in-place orders, Uridel understood the severity of the complex situation. While he felt he had the right to remain open, he willingly agreed to the two-week shutdown, accepting the time as an opportunity to relax and recoup. However, he continued on page 36

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 15

Boys and Girls Club of Oceanside Filling the Need

By Kristi Hawthorne The staff at the Boys and Girls Club of Oceanside had to scramble and plan quickly to find alternative ways to reach their kids and families amidst the shutdown due to the Coronavirus. The management team started working remotely to provide virtual programming, and within just one week BGCO began offering virtual programs via Youtube featuring the following:

Monday: Every Monday Matters/ Mindfulness

Tuesday: Artist Alley with Ms. Amy

Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday with Workout Willie (S.T.R.E.A.M.)

Thursday: Artist Alley with Ms. Amy Friday: Foodie Friday with Ms. Rhonda

Rhonda Guaderrama, Director of Development, also said one of the critical tasks was to send out ‘constant contacts’ to parents informing them of important resources. Most of the families have lower incomes and any financial loss has devastating effects.

The start of the second week of the shutdown Rhonda said the BGCO team was routinely developing more ways to reach kids/families and providing more resources.

They received a SBA loan which enabled them to rehire some of the site directors as “virtual program specialists”. Staff developed a grade curriculum and contacted kids via Zoom and Google Hangout (with parental consent). The task of reaching 4,000 kids by either phone or email was also implemented. It was important for the staff to maintain contact with the kids’ wellbeing.

For much of the time, their food distribution has been limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, with the help of the SBA loan, BGCO were able to hire the culinary arts staff to prepare snacks Monday, Wednesday and Friday so that kids with food insecurities can continue to get food and proper nutrition.

Rhonda said that feedback from parents and families has been largely positive and that they are grateful that someone cares about their children. The food program extends beyond “Club kids” and that they hope to feed children ages 0-17 who are in need.

Families do not need to leave the safety of their cars, as staff and volunteers have arranged curbside pickup! They also offer curbside pickup for those without cars while adhering to

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Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

social distancing protocols as recommended by the CDC. As events must go “virtual” during this time, the Boys and Girls Club of Oceanside hosted a virtual Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast. The idea was to celebrate Mother’s Day at home, while “attendees” could donate monetarily online and purchase “opportunity tickets”. Sponsorships were also available and proceeds enabled BGCO to continue their virtual programing, food distribution and fulfill their mission: To inspire, develop and enrich young people to reach their fullest potential as confident, responsible, caring members of society.

A Unique Group Term Life Insurance Program Offered Exclusively to Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Members This special program allows business members of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce with 5 or more employees the opportunity to take advantage of a group term life benefit typically only available to large companies or unions.

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www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

CA License # 0525206

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 17

Frontwave Credit Union: Values in Action

By Kristi Hawthorne Small businesses across the country are experiencing a devastating economic disruption due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. When Frontwave Credit Union, headquartered in Oceanside, heard from its members as well as the business community that there was a great need for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans they went into action.

Frontwave applied to become eligible to originate Paycheck Protection Program loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The SBA was looking for lenders that align with their values and willing to facilitate their mission with speed and effectiveness and Frontwave Credit Union was selected based on their reputation.

Todd Kern, Chief Marketing Officer of Frontwave, said that keeping “true to their name Frontwave has taken the lead and doubled down on who they are as an institution and their goal to be the best place their membership has ever banked.”

Knowing that small businesses are the heart and soul of any community, Frontwave assembled a “Dream Team” to hit the frontline and assist business owners who are impacted by the shutdown. They recognize that businesses are comprised of people, individuals and families, who are hurting, because needed revenue and income streams have been eliminated.

Small business owners have expressed tremendous anxiety … are they going to survive? How long can they survive? How do they digest and understand the details of an application and the loan process?

Paul Leonhardt, Frontwave’s Chief Lending Officer, said “that stepping up and responding to a need falls in line” with their brand. They want to take the lead, as their name implies, taking immediate action when action is needed and doing a business with a purpose.

What better cause to fight for - other than the backbone of America – small businesses?

Frontwave is ready to be the “first to fight” for small businesses who employ thousands upon thousands of people in San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. It is their mission to help to help them succeed.

What better cause to fight for - other than the backbone of America – small businesses? Frontwave is ready to be the “first to fight” for small businesses who employ thousands upon thousands of people in San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. It is their mission to help to help them succeed.

While the majority of the PPP applications have come from Oceanside, the applicants are from neighboring cities such as Vista and all points in between to include Temecula, as well from Yucca Valley and the surrounding desert.

Frontwave mobilized a team that Paul called “dream makers” who are making financial dreams come true.

After they identified and enlisted members within their organization, they assembled a team who were equipped in a variety of skills and expertise to help speed up and to help execute the loan process. Their goal is to deliver loans in a timely process.

With Frontwave’s dream team deployed on the frontline, they are committed to delivering solutions so that its individual members, as well as small businesses, can survive and thrive. Financial health leads to overall healthier communities, providing need stability in uncertain times.

Frontwave prides themselves on their step-by-step communication with applicants, who receive follow up phone calls, updates, and reassurance.

Karissa Keith, Frontwave Loan Servicing Manager, has been working diligently behind the scenes to ensure Paycheck Protection Program loans are funded as quickly as possible, enabling local businesses to fight though these challenging times.

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Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Charlie Anderson, owner of the Privateer Coal Fire Pizza in South Oceanside shared his experience: “I never realized that small business could include credit unions until the recent PPP loan debacle made by big banks. We hedged our bets on the second round of loans because of the recommendation from the Oceanside Chamber to use Oceanside’s Frontwave Credit Union for our PPP application. The process was simple, the communication was amazing and personal, and we were personally called and congratulated on being funded within days! The team at Frontwave has earned my respect and my business, and honestly changed the way I think about banking!”

Maria Mingalone, director of the Oceanside Museum Art, applied for a loan at Frontwave as well and had positive things to say. “Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) finally prevailed in receiving the PPP loan – thanks to Frontwave Credit Union and CEO Bill Birnie’s amazing team there! They are a spirited, communitydriven bank and OMA is happy to be among their membership rolls.”

Paul Leonhardt said that “consultative servicing” is a priority. He spoke of one instance when a business owner was panicked about the loan application, process and length of time it would all take. The owner was discouraged because they had not made any headway with a previous application from a different lender. Paul said they communicated over a Saturday and then into Sunday … with the result being that the loan was approved on Monday. The business owner was so relieved and grateful.

Frontwave’s Dream Team had accomplished the need loan approval in 48 hours and the business owner had a loan guarantee along with a loan number…providing peace of mind. Todd Kern, says that’s exactly what Frontwave does: “Going above and beyond, striving to be a values based business with purpose driven work.”

As of this writing just over $5.5 million in PPP loans had been approved through Frontwave Credit Union, assisting 157 businesses within the local communities in which they serve.

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www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 19

Pryor Products Partners With General Motors and Martinrea To Meet Demand For Ventilator Rolling Cart Units Company Rapidly Scales Production of Ventilator Rolling Carts Amid COVID-19 Outbreak Pryor Products, a leading global supplier of ventilator rolling carts today announced that the Company recently expanded its operations in order to meet the increased demand of ventilator carts due to the worldwide COVID-19 outbreak. The Company’s Oceanside factory has added round-the-clock shifts to accommodate heightened demand. In addition, Pryor Products has partnered with General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM), Ventec Life Systems and Martinrea to help meet the projected global demand for ventilators which is is expected to increase by 2000 percent by the end of 2020.

“We are proud and privileged to be able to play such a significant role in the global fight against this disease. Our employees have never worked with a greater sense of purpose and our supply chain partners in Oceanside made the impossible, possible.”

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Through this partnership, GM’s engineering team leveraged Pryor’s proprietary ventilator rolling cart design to create the tools and dies necessary to produce units. Pryor delivered the first shipment of 1,000 ventilator rolling carts in the month of April while GM’s partner, Martinrea will use their factory capacity at several U.S.-based plants to produce thousands of additional rolling carts as required over the next eight months.

Martinrea was able to move from the GM design phase to full manufacturing in just 24 days, while GM and Martinrea ramped up production capabilities for the ventilators and carts for their first month of volume shipments in May. “We are proud to collaborate with GM and Martinrea.

Their design, engineering and manufacturing expertise was invaluable as we optimized our manufacturing and assembly

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

resources to accommodate demand during this critical time,” said Kevin Dailey, president at Pryor. “Their joint expertise in manufacturability ensured that our rolling cart design maintains full FDA compliance while allowing higher volume production than ever before.”

In addition to partnering with GM and Martinrea and ramping up operations at the Pryor’s Oceanside, Calif. factory, the Company is shipping to international customers in Germany and Italy.

“We are proud and privileged to be able to play such a significant role in the global fight against this disease.

Our employees have never worked with a greater sense of purpose and our supply chain partners in Oceanside made the impossible, possible,” said Dailey.

This rapid response on multiple fronts has enabled Pryor to simultaneously work with other partners to outsource manufacturing of approximately 250,000 additional rolling ventilator cart units to ensure a more rapid response to future pandemic-level demands. The Company will apply the learnings and design elements from these partnerships into its existing infrastructure to address future capacity and global supply chain needs.

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Seeking to end domestic violence and sexual assault in our community by spreading awareness, reviving courage, and rebuilding lives.

WRC provides holistic, wrap-around support services to survivors of gender-based violence and their children.

Assistance is available 24/7 via our crisis hotline: 760-757-3500 Visit our website at www.wrcsd.org

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 21

PJ Graphics: Signs for Celebration Because schools were closed across the state, high school seniors were not given the opportunity to participate in a graduation ceremony. There were no stages to walk across, no diplomas placed in hands, and no applause from friends and families. Many felt a sense of loss as they were denied this event which marks such a momentous occasion in their lives.

One family in Oceanside wanted to do something special for their senior who would have otherwise graduated with pomp and circumstance. They contacted their friends Tom and Helen Hartley, owners of PJ Graphics, and ordered a banner printed to personally celebrate with their teenager. Lance Hartley, their son, created the popular banner design.

Soon after, another family came forward for a banner for their high school senior. Tom and Helen realized that this was an avenue to help those students who wouldn’t be graduating in the traditional manner – they began offering to print these celebratory banners at an affordable price point for families of just $25.00.

Helen said they have received banner orders from Hawaii to New Jersey and North Carolina. (Banners can be mailed for $10.00 fee.) Families are getting banners printed to celebrate students graduating from kindergarten, 8th grade, high school and even college.

The commemorative banners have taken on a life of their own. One family even ordered a banner to celebrate a student’s acceptance into USC, and they have become a way to celebrate other milestones.

Helen said she feels she has new friends from all over the country, and many have expressed their appreciation through tears of joy.

PJ Graphics have received heartfelt responses from recipients of the banners and those who have ordered them –helping them feel connected during this time of isolation.

Like any good idea, news of the banners spread quickly.

Channel 8 News got wind of the story and featured PJ Graphics’ banners in a piece that went viral. Soon Tom and Helen were fielding orders from across the country.

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Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

CEANSIDE

ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2019

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE Construction has started on the Beachfront

Improvements Project located near the Oceanside Pier and south of the Junior Seau Amphitheater.

Improvements include new restrooms, a maintenance office, a new Police substation, a sewer lift station, a new wider staircase with a landscaped viewing area and storefront area with seating. For more detailed information visit: https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/gov/ dev/eng/news.asp. This project is funded largely by a $8,000,000 grant from the State of California.

OCEANSIDE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEWS OCEANSIDE NEWS IS A PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF OCEANSIDE’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION. OCEANSIDE NEWS IS DEDICATED TO BEING A STRONG PARTNER WITH BROKERS, DEVELOPERS, BUSINESSES, AS WELL AS BUSINESS LEADERS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS. WE WELCOME YOUR INPUT AND YOUR NEWSWORTHY INFORMATION FOR OUR PUBLICATION.

NEWS

OCEANSIDE BEACH RESORT: The North Hotel will be topping out this week. DPR is pouring the pool deck on level 6 and the roof on level 7. Interior and exterior framing is ongoing from P-1 to level 4. The South Hotel will be pouring level 3 next week, and projected topping out will be in February 2020.

CITY OF OCEANSIDE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIV. 300 NORTH COAST HIGHWAY OCEANSIDE, CA 92054-2885 FOR NOTEWORTHY NEWS

The “Toppmosher@oceansideca.org Gun house,” also known as the historic Graves House was recently moved to the North Block of the Oceanside Beach Resort, currently under construction. The historic house will be renovated and will become a retail shop. The Oceanside Beach direct: 760.435.3357 Resorts are slated to open early next year. The project includes two resorts that will be operated by Joie de Vivre Hotels and www.osidebiz.com Destination Hotel Properties, as part of the Hyatt Hotel Network, featuring one 226-room full-service hotel on the south block of Pacific St. & Mission Ave., and one 161-room boutique hotel across the street on the north block. Both hotels will contain multiple restaurants, bars, and more than 22,000 sq. ft. of internal meeting and function space.

CHECK US OUT ON https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=25358 FACEBOOK & TWITTER

is moving along onBusiness the 22,206 sq. ft. Aldihere: located at 4251 Oceanside Blvd.

Get theConstuction latest updated (COVID-19) Information in the Rancho Del Oro Gateway shopping center. Developers Resource Companies, Inc. https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/gov/fire/resources/covid19business.asp has over 36,000 sq. ft. available for lease next to Aldi.

The City of Oceanside’s Economic Development Division looks forward to helping more businesses open and expand. Economic Development staff are available to assist with site selection, market data and other resources to help businesses locate, stay and grow in Oceanside. For more information, contact Michelle Geller, Economic Development Manager, at mgeller@oceansideca.org or (760) 435-3351. Visit our website at www.osidebiz.com or social media at @OceansideBiz. News continues on page 2 Subscribe to the Economic Development Newsletter at https://bit.ly/36BO8dX .

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 23

OMA: Creative Ways To Thrive And Become Stronger

By Maria Mingalone In the first weeks of the governor’s stay-at-home order, decisions at Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) were made rapidly in an environment that was changing hourly. No one gave us an instruction manual to operate through a pandemic—it was like flying a plane while building it.

COVID-19 has been widely democratic, indiscriminately impacting across industries large and small, for-profit and nonprofit. Faced with this new challenge, OMA has been finding new and creative ways to thrive and become stronger as we lift the spirits of our audiences and the prosperity of our community in the process.

OMA has always been about bringing people together, although now with a different set of constraints and opportunities. We’ve shifted our model to reach audiences at home to provide inspiration, and even lighthearted diversion with live-streamed, virtual, and remotely-accessed educational, and cultural experiences. These programs connect the OMA community with regional talent via artist talks, virtual studio visits, hands-on art workshops, livestream lectures, and more.

Our programs are reaching farther into the community than ever before. More people are joining live stream and virtual programs than could have traditionally participated onsite at the museum— making the OMA experience even more inclusive and accessible. OMA’s virtual programming has attracted people from around the country, as we redefine what a museum experience can be. We see the results in

the number of people who consistently tune in— doubling and quadrupling former participation.

In another new venture, OMA is bringing the biennial art auction, which was canceled in March, to an online platform, and creating live stream events that highlight the artists whose work is being auctioned.

The auction promotes art purchases for regional artists at a time when art sales will are a much needed financial boost to those in the cultural sector who are hurting. It will also help to generate income for the museum from what would have otherwise been a total loss.

Our programs are reaching farther into the community than ever before. More people are joining live stream and virtual programs than could have traditionally participated onsite at the museum—making the OMA experience even more inclusive and accessible.

OMA continues to work with our educational partners to ignite a love of learning by using art to improve social connections. With newly created OMAgination boxes, we will be bringing hands-on art making activities to residential families at the Women’s Resource Center. Using the healing power of art engagement, this new initiative has been developed to help those in need of some inspiration and a healthy diversion to reduce stress, anxiety, and engaging alternatives for screen-time weary eyes.

OMA arts educators are prepared to find new creative ways to spark young learners’ curiosity through online distance learning platforms in partnership with OUSD in the fall, if necessary. These programs – ArtQuest and Literacy Through Art – bridge the arts, science, and literacy curriculums for a future generation of leaders.

Like many in our community, I am concerned about how the economy will rebound, and what recovery will look like for everyone affected.

Here is where I hope those who don’t realize the impact the arts have will pay close attention. The arts are more than a privilege and a luxury.

The individual community members who built OMA 23 years ago did so for two distinct reasons. Some wanted an artistic center of merit in their own city rather than travel to Los Angeles or San Diego. Others did so because they were interested in building a

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Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

community hub, and whether they knew it then or not, they were also building a critical piece in the local economy that would elevate the reputation of the city by creating a cultural destination.

The arts are a cornerstone to tourism. OMA attracts people to the region and offers meaningful ways for people to connect with one another. Those bonds are not only important for community connections among residents, but they also provide equally beneficial economic benefits as arts audiences venture to nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions in connection with their museum visit.

Like other small businesses in downtown Oceanside, the museum employs staff and buys goods and services—not to mention markets and promotes the region in which we exist. If OMA were to fail, so much more will be lost than a museum.

OMA is center stage in one of only 14 designated California Cultural Districts and a key partner in the City of Oceanside’s cultural master plan – a civic nod to the value the arts play in the life and welfare of a community.

We continue to maintain connections with community members, volunteers, and artists, and at a time when the museum doors are closed, continue to expand the OMA community. OMA is not only retaining members,

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

we are continuing to attract and welcome new members. Many continue to support OMA because they have experienced first-hand the power art has to make a difference in their lives on many levels— socially, educationally, and financially.

Going home and waiting it out was never an option.

That would have left a critical hole in the social fabric of our community. Universally, the OMA team has felt it is important to remain a vibrant resource in service of our community. During the recovery OMA commits to continue to play an important economic role in the local business community and further its social role in the lives of our residents and visitors.

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 25

y t i n u m m o C and Our

DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted not only how we work and where we go, but how our food is collected, made, and distributed to us.

One local organization, ProduceGood, has stepped up to pick and distribute fresh produce from local farms, backyard fruit trees, and even local businesses, to feed the food insecure and hungry throughout Oceanside.

Since 2014, ProduceGood has been sourcing and harvesting excess fruits and vegetables in the county from local farms, farmers markets, and off edible fruit trees, and supplying local feeding agencies, food pantries and community partners with that food.

To date, ProduceGood has diverted over 606,800 pounds of produce, creating over 1,820,292 servings of produce for the San Diego Community.

During their 2019 fiscal year, ProduceGood rescued 314,000 pounds of produce, which equates to over 942,000 servings of fresh produce to communities in

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need, and earned the Reducing Food Waste Initiative Award by the US EPA. The City of Oceanside began to partner with ProduceGood in 2018, with a goal of protecting the environment by rescuing food that would otherwise be thrown away and providing otherwise perfectly delicious produce to Oceanside residents and the food insecure. Through the City’s partnered “Harvest Oceanside” events, ProduceGood has collected close to 12,000 pounds of fresh produce from both Oceanside agricultural surplus and from backyard fruit trees. In just two events, this has equated to almost 36,000 fresh fruit serving to local food insecure populations.

Once COVID-19 hit our community, ProduceGood quickly adapted to focus their operations to maximizing their food recovery and transportation operations in support of local food banks and

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

community feeding programs. Due to social distancing guidelines and changes to the demand for fresh produce, local farms were experiencing agricultural surplus without enough staff to process or enough customers to purchase their yields. That’s where ProduceGood came in. With the help of volunteers, these crops were gleaned – the practice of collecting surplus fresh produce that otherwise would go to waste – and taken to a local food pantry, ensuring no food was wasted and those in need were fed.

While adhering to all county and state guidelines for social distancing and safety precautions, ProduceGood continued to support residents by performing produce “quick picks” of fruit trees and gardens. In just the first 6 weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic, 48,000 pounds of perfectly fresh produce was captured by ProduceGood and their volunteers.

Produce picked from backyards and farms across Oceanside and North County was then transported

by ProduceGood to food banks where it could be immediately enjoyed, or to organizations who would turn the produce into delicious food products for the food insecure, seniors, and the immune-compromise.

One organization, Oceanside Kitchen Collaborative, utilized the City’s Green Oceanside Kitchen, a stateof-the-art food recovery and preservation facility, to process over 17,363 pounds of produce into 52,089 servings to support our community during these uncertain times.

The COVID- 19 health crisis has highlighted and strengthened the connection between organizations like ProduceGood, feeding agencies, and numerous community groups to ensure that we support the food insecure, and that we feed people, not landfills.

For information on how you can combat food insecurity and to learn more about the City’s Environmental Programs, please email GreenOceanide@oceansideca.org or visit www.GreenOceanside.org.

Did You Know?  40% of all U.S. food goes to waste  One in six San Diegans is food insecure  By scheduling a pick with ProduceGood, you can ensure your backyard produce feeds those in need!

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Some of the Many Community Recipients  San Luis Rey Food Pantry  El Camino Highschool Food Pantry  Mira Costa College Food Pantry  North County Food Bank  Hope Through Housing  Nourish North County  O’side Kitchen Collaborative

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 27

MIR ACOS TA COLLEGE: Students Manufacture Personal Protective Equipment to Fight Covid-19 Pandemic While the coronavirus pandemic forced MiraCosta College to transition to online learning, instructors recognized an immediate opportunity for students to put their acquired skills to good use and provide resources for our most vulnerable healthcare workers. The Technology Career Institute is part of MiraCosta College’s Community Education & Workforce Development Department, designed to

“I’m just so grateful MiraCosta College has an opportunity to have a positive impact on our community and it really underscores what a community college is all about.” provide not-for-profit, accelerated job training in diverse fields including manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, security and more. Linda Kurokawa, MiraCosta College’s director of community education and workforce development explained, “With our manufacturing and engineering equipment, it became really clear one of the things we could be doing is have our students get some real hands-on experience making some of the equipment that is needed.”

As the necessity for personal protective equipment (PPE) rapidly grew, the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and the State Office of Emergency Services began locating specific production capabilities at colleges, finding the MiraCosta College Maker Lab at the Oceanside campus. Instructional Associate Chris Boehm used the Maker Lab and its seven 3-D printers to develop prototypes for a face mask, face shield and a “vent splitter,” a device which allows for a single ventilator to be used for two separate patients at the same time. From there, MiraCosta College began manufacturing face masks, face shields and decontamination boxes to increase the amount of PPE for our frontline workers. “We certainly wouldn’t be able to mass produce anything, but if we could use the Maker Lab to make even 100 face shields or 250 vent splitters, that would be enough to perhaps save more than a few lives,” Boehm said. “I’m just so grateful MiraCosta College has an opportunity to have a positive impact on 28 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

our community and it really underscores what a community college is all about.”

Today, instructors at MiraCosta College’s Technology Career Institute in Carlsbad have used the institute’s machine and engineering shops and 3-D printers to develop prototypes and order parts for hundreds of hospital face shields. Decontamination box prototypes used UV lights and sensors to disinfect various medical equipment while sewing and upholstery students stitched up to 1,000 face masks using elastic bands and fabric from local craft stores. Face masks and face shields were sent to Rady Children’s Hospital, while the decontamination boxes were distributed to various hospitals and medical centers throughout the region. “It’s going to take everyone in California to step up and do their part, and that includes us,” said Kurokawa. “It feels wonderful to be part of a community that is doing what it can to save lives.”

Recently, as restaurants slowly began re-opening their dine-in services, the new OSHA COVID-19 guidelines required restaurant dishwashers to wear full face coverings while working. MiraCosta College, therefore, extended their offerings to supply restaurants with full face shields asking for a small donation of $7 per covering. The institute plans to reinvest the funds generated from the shields back into their Engineering Tech program, buying supplies and equipment for their well-deserving students.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

HY I L W

O

Our City has so much to offer! Our Community Leaders share why they love where they live and their passion for our community.

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CA

The recent pandemic has demonstrated the positive attitude of Oceanside and the many sacrifices that have been made for the public good. This is a challenge not experienced in our lifetimes while continuing to serve the community within health and it has forced most of us to temporarily give up some of the most enjoyable aspects of our lives. and safety guidelines. The sacrifices we have made have helped protect our community, save lives, and will only Having spent more than 35 years with the City of make our community stronger as we move forward.

Oceanside, I had never been more optimistic about the future of our City rebounding in 2020.

We truly are stronger together, and the progress we Peter Weiss have made thus far in flattening the curve in Oceanside is a direct result of everyone who has cared to act Mayor, City of Oceanside responsibly and respect the health and safety of their When I arrived in Oceanside for the neighbors in their daily decisions. We have much second time in 1987 I had moved with work to do, but our ability to act collaboratively as a my family to six states and around 30 community is what will make Oceanside resilient, and homes in my lifetime. Our family found help it continue to be a wonderful place to live, work, home. This is our true hometown. We and play. were welcomed and our family grew. We are 34 family Tasha Boerner Horvath members and counting. This is everything Bunny and I California State Assemblymember hoped and prayed for as a home. Thanks to the many old timers as well as new residents for your efforts There are so many reasons to love the to make this city a great place to live, work, worship City of Oceanside, but all of its eclectic and play. This is why I LOVE OCEANSIDE! residents are what really makes our

L

IF

Jack Feller

community special. While you can’t beat a day at the beach in Oceanside, the most rewarding aspect of my role in Congress is representing the incredible people who call Oside home.

Deputy Mayer, City of Oceanside The reason I love Oceanside is, it’s home to the best beaches in the North County. It’s also the gateway from Los Angeles to San Diego. It gives those visiting from the north a great first impression of San Diego County.

From its pristine beauty to its willingness to step up during a time of crisis, Oceanside is greatly unique!

Jim Desmond

County Supervisor Over the past couple of months, I have watched with hope as many members of Oceanside’s community have embraced the measures necessary to help see us through these challenging times. Many of Oceanside businesses have worked to adapt 30 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

A O R NI

Mike Levin

U.S. Representative, 49th District I

have been so lucky to grow up in Oceanside and enjoy everything that makes this the best city in San Diego County. Not only do we have perfect weather year round, great beaches and consistent surf in the winter and summer but we also have the most genuine and hard-working residents I have met. We have worked tirelessly to make Oceanside the most enjoyable and livable beach city in California and I am proud to call it home!

Ryan Keim

Councilmember, City of Oceanside Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen: Paying it Forward Through generous donations from family, friends and guests the Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen were able to set up a food fund. With this fund, they were able to keep their kitchen operating and preparing food. The Flying Pig began donating meals to the Emergency Room staff at Tri City Medical Center.

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

They also offered meals to other healthcare workers and first responders. As donations continue, the Flying Pig reciprocates with a “pay it forward” ideal.

They believe “We’re all in this together” and are thankful to the friends and staff who have helped people helping others.

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 31

nor th county cares Genentech Donates $50,000 to North County Cares in Support of Local Families and Restaurants Impacted by COVID-19

Stratford at the Harbor

Pollos Maria Oceanside

Genentech is helping North County families and restaurants with a generous donation of $50,000 to the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Foundation in support of North County Cares. This donation amount will serve an estimated 1,650 local families and will benefit 30 - 35 restaurants in Oceanside and Vista.

“I can’t begin to express how grateful we are. This is going to have such a huge impact on our community in terms of feeding our most vulnerable residents while supporting some of our most impacted small businesses,” explains Scott Ashton, CEO of the Oceanside Chamber. “We truly appreciate Genentech’s generosity and commitment to helping our community through these challenging times.”

North County Cares is a collaborative effort designed by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, the Vista Chamber of Commerce and the San Diego North Economic Development Council for the purpose of supporting both families in need and North County restaurants facing economic hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Contributors are encouraged to support local families and restaurants by donating to the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

In turn, the money collected is used to purchase gift cards from participating chamber member restaurants in both Oceanside and Vista. The gift cards are then distributed to the Vista Unified School District and the Oceanside Unified School District to provide meals for struggling families.

32 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen

Mangia e Bevi

Rachel Beld, CEO of the Vista Chamber, emphasizes her appreciation for Genentech’s contribution and expresses enthusiasm when discussing the positive impact the program will have on the community. “Our school districts are doing an amazing job serving the nutritional needs of students - VUSD is serving 35,000 meals per week! Unfortunately, we’ve heard from our school officials that there is more support needed for families facing food insecurity,” explains Beld.

“As Chambers of Commerce we looked for a solution that would assist these families while also supporting the economic stability of our restaurants. We are grateful to our members for providing discounted gift cards and incredibly encouraged by the generosity of Genentech. We hope that others are inspired to give so that we may support additional businesses and families.”

With the generous donation from Genentech, the program started purchasing gift cards in May and began the distribution process to local school districts this weekend. Participating restaurants have graciously provided gift cards at a discounted rate, allowing for the maximization of donation dollars. As the goal of the program is to benefit as many families and restaurants as possible, North County Cares has launched a coinciding GoFundMe Campaign which hopes to raise an additional $20,000 in grassroot funding. These community contributions have the ability to benefit an additional 650 families and up to local restaurants.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

The Privateer

Deb Wickman, OUSD Family & Community Engagement Liaison assists in distributing gift cards to families in need.

Anita’s Fine Mexican Restaurant

Don’s Country Kitchen

San Luis Rey Bakery & Restaurant

Breakwater Brewing

Beach Break Cafe

Please visit the North County Cares website at www.sdnedc.org/north-county-cares/ to learn more about the program.

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 33

Flowers of Gratitude In appreciation of those facing the front lines to keep us safe, Integral Communities partnered with Oceanside flower grower Mellano & Company to deliver 1,500 bouquets to more than a dozen essential service providers, local businesses and community groups including Oceanside Police and Fire departments, Scripps Encinitas, Palomar Health Hospital and the USO at Camp Pendleton. The cheerful gifts were a way to thank first responders and essential businesses, brighten the days of those keeping our communities going, and support the farming community who has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

“The flowers were a way for us to show our gratitude; gratitude for a third-generation farm and gratitude to our health professionals, public safety officers, and local businesses,” remarked Lance Waite, Principal of Integral Communities. “Our community gives us reason to have hope every day, and it was important to us to let them know we are thankful and recognize their efforts that keep us safe, fed and better positioned for the future.”

Utilizing social distancing and sanitation best practices, the Integral Communities team distributed flowers to:  Waste Management who has not skipped a beat in service,  USO at Camp Pendleton which continues to provide support for active duty military and their families,  Oceanside Police and Fire Departments who put themselves in harm’s way every day for our protection,  Local restaurants who are partnering with one another and creating innovative ways to survive,  The construction crew at the Oceanside Beach Resort who know how important it is to keep our economy going,  The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce who is helping businesses navigate the unknown and,  Scripps Encinitas Hospital, Palomar Hospital in Escondido and Kaiser in San Marcos who put their lives on the line each day to keep us healthy.

34 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

Coomber Craft Wines Gets Creative Amid Coronavirus Chaos Coomber Craft Wines got creative when faced with adversity and sought to help others through their own difficulty.

They began selling 3 oz. containers of DIY hand sanitizer and offered them free to anyone who purchased wine. They donated 50 bottles to Oceanside Police Department, who did not have enough for their staff.

Next they partnered with two downtown restaurants, Rim Talay and Rosewood Kitchen to put together a special menu to create a “Dinner for Two” for $25… giving the restaurants the entire amount to help them financially.

Then they promoted “Family Game Night”, delivering a Meal for Two, a bottle of Coomber Wine and a choice of a board game or puzzle from a local board game company.

While they are back open to the public and social distancing, Coomber is appreciative of the support they have received from the Oceanside Chamber and other business organizations, along with their customers and the community at large.

www.oceansidechamber.com | Summer 2020

Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal | 35

Local Gym Owner Fearlessly Advocates ... continued from page 15

began to question the mandatory restrictions and recognized inconsistencies amongst orders pertaining to large commercial suppliers in comparison to those regulated to small businesses.

In accordance with original messages urging citizens to stay inside as a means to “flatten the curve”, Uridel expected businesses to reopen in early May as the county had followed orders and successfully reduced the rise of COVID-19 cases. However, when shelter-in-place orders were extended, Uridel realized something needed to change, and someone needed to set a standard. Feeling alone in his idea that these restrictions were unequal for all business models, Uridel attended a rally on May 1st. After hearing from other businesses who shared his same thoughts and feelings regarding irregularities amongst mandatory shelter-in-place orders, he explained that, “For the first time I wasn’t alone. There were a lot of hair salons, nail shops, tattoo parlors, and some other gym owners.

And I thought, ‘Wow, I’m actually in this with other people.’”

Uridel began doing his own research, hiring virologists to scientifically determine the precautionary steps he needed to take to safely reopen his gym. He enacted multiple precautionary measures within his gym including the installation of hand sanitizer stations, the use of special EPA approved disinfectant spray, opened doors and used fans to increase airflow, limited capacity by 20 percent, and adjusted hours from all day to just 8 AM – 8 PM for staffing purposes. When asked if he lost any of his staff or members, Uridel replied, “Everyone was chomping at the bits. I couldn’t believe how many people actually came back.” More significantly, Uridel explained, “I had several people come back and tell me their stories of PTSD, and that this was the therapy they’ve been using for the past two years,” clarifying that, “it’s not just the exercise, but the comradery of our gym.” Therefore, while Uridel knew he needed to open his gym for financial purposes and to alleviate overall economic strain, the ability for his members to have an outlet and a home-away-from-home was most significant in his decision to defy county health orders.

Uridel opened his gym on May 8th. While the Oceanside Police Department was sympathetic, they were ultimately forced to take legal action. Uridel 36 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal

was arrested and cited for his actions. Not long after his return, Uridel was flooded with media attention and received immense support from individuals and businesses nationwide. He decided to hold what he referred to as, a Freedom Rally, or a rally urging businesses to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the mandatory shutdown. He explained that the intent of his rally was to both encourage local businesses to begin taking the precautionary steps necessary to reopen and to, “take the heat off the OPD” as, “These people are still heroes.” He also took the time to thank the media stating that they gave him an opportunity to let his voice and concerns be heard. When asked how he would feel if someone from his gym contracted COVID-19, Uridel stated, “I’d feel horrible.… but if we’re going to keep businesses closed out of fear that someone might contract COVID-19, the economy will never resume. So, we have to do the responsible thing. Open up, and try to keep people safe by following the correct precautions.”

Due to the nationwide media attention Uridel received, many other gym owners and businesses decided to follow in his footsteps, taking the precautionary measures necessary to allow for them to reopen. While he is not taking credit for progressing San Diego County’s reopening efforts, he believes his story encouraged other businesses to use their voice to expediate reopening plans and processes countywide.

While his gym has seen an influx of new members, Uridel has bigger plans to support Oceanside’s small business community following COVID-19. He explains that, “I always want to try and do the right thing with my life in Christ. I feel I’ve been given a little bit of notoriety, and I want to try and use that to help other businesses.” As an avid social media user himself, Uridel used the power of social platforms to promote “shopping small” during the COVID-19 crisis, consistently sharing images, updates and offerings from other Oceanside restaurants and businesses.

Keeping this idea of “shopping small” in mind, Uridel has teamed up with a fellow gym member and local businessman to create Unite Oceanside, a nonprofit organization which aims to unify some of Oceanside’s small businesses by creating a network that cross promotes one another. He hopes that this alliance of businesses will ban together to ultimately support one another and create a united stance within Oceanside.

Summer 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com

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We fight for our members. Because we’re Frontwave Credit Union. And we’ve got your back.

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Oceanside Chamber of Commerce 928 N. Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054

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ceanside CHAMBER

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Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal Published by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce All Rights Reserved

EMERGENCIES DON’T WAIT If you or someone you know is experiencing a pressing health crisis, your local ER is safe, ready and waiting.

Tri-City Medical Center follows protocols to protect patient safety and reduce the risk of COVID transmission.

ER Check-in For non life-threatening conditions check-in to the emergency room online at tricitymed.org and wait comfortably at home until your time to be seen.

4002 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056 | 855.222.TCMC (8262) | tricitymed.org