News & Updates

Six Leadership Action Team Partner Agencies Named by LEAD San Diego

LEAD

December 8, 2023

LEAD San Diego has announced its six nonprofit partner agencies for 2024. Members of LEAD’s Impact San Diego Class of 2024 will form teams to gain hands-on experience by working with these organizations to accomplish vital projects that will benefit the agencies and our community.

The Six Leadership Action Team Partner Agencies are:

Balboa Park Cultural Partnership is a nonprofit organization through which 25 full members of arts, science, and cultural organizations in Balboa Park collaborate to achieve greater organizational efficiency, innovation, and excellence. The Partnership’s member institutions vary in size and type and include museums, performing arts groups and theaters, cultural centers, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.

Black Entrepreneurs Leaders and Learners (BELL) was formed by a group of community leaders who share a mission to help create and connect opportunities for black & minority communities through entrepreneurship, ownership, education, and networking. BELL is creating generational wealth opportunities for its members through its programming and partnerships.

The Chicano Federation was formed in 1969 by a tireless group of advocates established to advance civil rights and civic participation of San Diego County’s Latine community (pronounced la-ti-ne, a gender-neutral form of “Latino” used by Spanish-speaking communities). The organization is open to all, serving clients regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital and/or immigration status. The Federation provides advocacy and social services, leveraging 54 years of experience as a trusted community partner and advocate for immigrants, refugees, and low-income, high-potential San Diego County residents. Because of Chicano Federation’s commitment to racial equity and social justice, it will be recognized as “2023 Outstanding Organization for Diversity & Inclusion” at the 51st annual National Philanthropy Day hosted by AFP San Diego.

Interfaith Community Services was founded in 1979 in response to rising rates of hunger and homelessness in North San Diego County. It has grown to become the most comprehensive human service agency in North County, serving 20,250 individuals last fiscal year. This includes homeless men and women, veterans, families with children, seniors, and persons with severe mental illness, long histories of substance abuse, and a range of chronic health issues, including those who are criminal justice involved. They provide both immediate safety net services and long-term, life-changing programs that help to stabilize and rebuild the lives of people in crisis. Programs include street outreach, emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing, recovery services, multiple models of case management, referral, and advocacy.

STAR/PAL‘s efforts are built around providing mentorship and removing obstacles for youth in historically underserved communities, and on promoting ethical policing and cooperation in the process. The organization was founded in 1988. Based in San Diego, STAR/PAL builds relationships between youth and law enforcement through a variety of leadership and mentoring programs focused on recognizing potential and supporting growth. STAR/PAL has been nationally recognized for its model of police and community collaboration, which models an example of ethical community policing standards and mentors under-resourced youth.

The League of Amazing Programmers is a San Diego-based nonprofit organization that teaches coding to kids and teens in 5th-12th grade. Their mission is to help more youth, including girls and underserved students, acquire the skills and education needed to be leaders in the digital age, and contribute to the workforce of the 21st century. They aim to create a positive impact on all students by helping them develop critical thinking skills and self-confidence through learning computer programming.

Each Impact LAT will make a presentation about their completed project at their graduation event. It will be free and open to the public. Stay tuned to see how our Impact Class and Leadership Action Teams work together to make lasting changes within our region.

LEADers On The Move

LEADNews

December 8, 2023

We enjoy seeing what our graduates are doing and how they are making an impact on the world. Share your good news with us via email: lead@sdchamber.org.

Kimberly J. Becker (Influence 2018) has been named Director of the Year, Large Airports Division by Airport Experience News.

Julie Coker (Influence 2022) is the Pioneer Award Recipient by the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals.

Danny Milla (Impact 2023) is now a Board Member for Casa Cornelia Law Center.

Alondra Alvarado (Advance 2020) is now the President and CEO of the San Diego Hunger Coalition.

Hernán Luis y Prado (Impact 2015, Influence 2023 & Board Member) has been named Veteran of the Year, 79th Assembly District by CA Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber.

Lisette Islas (Influence 2021) has been named Chief Executive Officer for Lifeline Community Services.

Jason Bowser (Impact 2007, Influence 2013 & Past Board Member) is now the Senior Vice President – Branch Banking, Investment Services, and Business Development of Mission Federal Credit Union.

Pamela Gutierrez (Advance 2023) is now a Board Member of Girls on the Run.

Ana Diaz (Impact 2014) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Pamela Gabriel (Influence 2020) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Susan Guinn (Impact 2014) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Emily Hill (Influence 2023) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Carrie Jones (Impact 2012) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Alessandra Lezama (Influence 2019) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Sarah Thompson (Impact 2019) is a finalist for the 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award from the San Diego Business Journal.

Sam Attisha (Influence 2011) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Valerie Attisha (Impact 2005 & Advance 2020) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Kimberly J. Becker (Influence 2018) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Phil Blair (Impact 1983, Past Board Chair) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Trevor Blair (Impact 2007, Influence 2017 & Past Board Chair) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Steve Brass (Influence 2016) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Betsy Brennan (Impact 2006 & Influence 2018) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dan Broderick (Impact 2005) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jennie Brooks (Impact 2005) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Reid Carr (Influence 2011) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Paul Downey (Impact 1996) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Steve Espino (Impact 1990) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jane Finley (Influence 2015) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

John Frager (Influence 2016) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Inez González Perezchica (Impact 2001) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Melissa Hayden-Cook (Influence 2015) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Peter Heald (Influence 2013) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Stephen Jennings (Influence 2016) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Rudolph Johnson, III (Impact 1994) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Steven Jones (Influence 2020 & Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Stath Karras (Impact 1994 & Past Co-Chair) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Sara Katz (Impact 1989) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Tim Keane (Influence 2020) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Daniel Kuperschmid (Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Susan Lew (Impact 1987) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Alessandra Lezama (Influence 2019) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Arnulfo Manriquez (Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Lidia S. Martinez (Influence 2011 & Former Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Mark David Milliron (Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Dan Moshavi (Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Michael Neal (Impact 2000) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Mark Neville (Impact 2015) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Eric Northbrook (Influence 2016) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Grant Oliphant (Influence 2022) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Lisa Ordóñez (Influence 2020) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jason Paguio (Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Julian Parra (Influence 2009) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Tom Pellette (Influence 2010) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Cheri Pierre (Impact 2005) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Alan Prohaska (Influence 2015) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Liz Ramírez (Advance 2020 & Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Garry Ridge (Influence 2016 & Past Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Rip Rippetoe (Influence 2019) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Manuel Rodriguez (Influence 2019) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Nancy Rohland-Heinrich (Impact 2000, Influence 2017 & Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Mark Sanchez (Influence 2021) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jerry Sanders (President, CEO & Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Nancy Sasaki (Impact 1993) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jim Schmid (Impact 1984) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Elizabeth Schott (Influence 2023) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

James Sly (Impact 2015) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Sean Spear (Influence 2021) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Seth Stein (Influence 2014) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Pat Sullivan (Influence 2014) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Laura Tancredi-Baese (Impact 2004) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Tonya Torosian (Influence 2013 & Board Member) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Sidd Vivek (Influence 2022) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

Brian Zotti (Influence 2013) has been named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal.

MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: SALVATION ARMY

Member Spotlight

November 30, 2023

The Salvation Army has been in San Diego since 1887, providing services and addressing many human needs in our community without discrimination.

The Salvation Army San Diego is dedicated to Doing the Most Good. Officers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners work tirelessly together to holistically meet the needs in our community. Their programs are designed to combat homelessness and hunger, provide safe spaces for kids, help adults achieve and maintain sobriety, and give hope to our most vulnerable neighbors.

Doing the Most Good for those in need is their highest goal. They pledge to maintain the highest standards of financial accountability to earn your continued trust. For every dollar you give to The Salvation Army, 82 cents are used to serve those in need in San Diego.

Following the pandemic, one in four people in San Diego still face food insecurity. In 2023, The Salvation Army provided more than 425,000 food boxes to San Diegans in need. They continue to provide the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and underprivileged children.

The Salvation Army has initiated the Homeless to Home capital campaign with the goal of raising $30,000,000 from private philanthropy to facilitate the construction of The Rady Center. The Salvation Army’s Rady Center, a $100 million project in partnership with Wakeland Housing and Development, supported by Ernest and Evelyn Rady, will redefine homeless support and be a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness in San Diego. This transformative facility opens in 2027, and will offer comprehensive services including case management, a community health clinic, workforce development, and housing opportunities, providing a pathway to brighter futures. This $100 million project will be financed through a combination of private philanthropy, tax credits, and government grants, capitalizing on the value of the land The Salvation Army owns.

For more information, please visit www.sandiego.salvationarmy.org

Departments:

· Public Inquiries: 619-231-6000

· Administration: 619-446-0221

· Donor Relations: 866-I’LL-FIGHT (866-455-4357) or 619-446-0287

· Social Services: 619-446-0274

· Senior Nutrition: 619-446-0229

· Volunteer Opportunities: 619-446-0238

· Media Relations: 619-446-0294

· Women’s Auxiliary: 619-446-0273

· Adult Rehabilitation Center & Thrift Stores: 619-239-4037

Ribbon Cutting: Galpão Gaucho

Ribbon Cuttings

November 28, 2023

Galpão Gaucho, known for its authentic cuisine inspired by the Gaucho…Brazil’s cowboy, opened its inaugural Southern California location at The Headquarters at Seaport District in San Diego and seventh in the U.S. To commemorate the opening, a special ribbon-cutting ceremony with the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce took place. Galpão Gaucho executive members cut the ribbon with a Brazilian gaucho knife.

click to see full-size image

Galpão Gaucho features authentic cuisine inspired by the Brazilian cowboy (Gaucho) way of life. As part of an unlimited rodizio dining experience, guests can enjoy 17 marvelous cuts of meat such as beef, seafood, pork, chicken, lamb, and a gourmet salad bar with more than 45 options. Additional experience includes the a la carte bar menu at the elegant and lively bar area. Guests can enjoy signature cocktails and shareable plates served in the bar area, and the bar features weekday happy hour specials on both food and drink options. An incredible feature of the restaurant is the group dining experience, where parties up to 150 guests can experience the full rodizio menu in a group setting.

Click to see full-size image.

Galpão Gaucho San Diego is located at 789 West Harbor Drive, Ste #134, San Diego, CA 92101. The restaurant is open for lunch Monday through Friday, from 11:30am-2:30pm; dinner Monday through Thursday from 5-9:30pm; Friday from 5-10pm; Saturday from noon-10pm; and Sunday from noon-9pm. For more information and to book your reservation, visit GalpaoGauchoUSA.com, or call the San Diego location directly at (619) 373-9969.

Visit Galpão Gaucho on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok

Chamber Meets with MX Secretary of Foreign Affairs

Uncategorized

November 16, 2023

Highlighting the significance of cross-border collaboration, Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Alicia Barcena, visited our region to assess critical border infrastructure projects, including the upcoming land port of entry.

The Mexican Consulate in San Diego played a pivotal role by hosting a roundtable discussion with Secretary Barcena and other key regional stakeholders, including representatives from the Chamber.

This forum provided an opportunity to articulate our region’s priorities and discuss the challenges in need of support from the federal government.

In a proactive step forward, stakeholders are set to compile a comprehensive list of border infrastructure needs. This document will be presented to the Secretary as part of the upcoming high-level economic dialogues, ensuring that our region’s concerns are elevated to the appropriate platforms.

Earlier this month, Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Avila welcomed President Lopez Obrador at her second State of the State Address in Rosarito.

During the address, the Mexican President reiterated his unwavering commitment to prioritizing southbound crossings, the rehabilitation of the Punta Bandera Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tijuana, and the completion of the Otay Mesa East land port of entry on the Mexican side of the border by the end of this year.

These collaborative efforts underscore the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to advocating for efficient borders, ultimately contributing to the increased global competitiveness of our binational region.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: NOVO BRAZIL BREWING CO.

Member Spotlight

November 15, 2023

Novo Brazil Brewing was established by founder and owner Tiago Carneiro and his family in 2015 in Eastlake, Chula Vista. The brewery has become a celebrated name in the craft beer industry, and is known for its lively flavors and unwavering commitment to quality.

Novo embraces a unique beer culture evident in its vibrant branding, intricate aromas, and thoughtful flavor profiles. Besides its Eastlake brewery location, Novo has expanded to brewpubs and taprooms in Otay Ranch, Ocean Beach, Imperial Beach, and is about to open a new brewpub in Mission Valley, and another one in San Antonio, Texas by the end of 2024. Novo will also be in the new Terminal 1 at the San Diego Airport – a huge achievement for a local Brewery in San Diego.

Novo has achieved a U.S. bronze medal for their Corvo Negro Russian Imperial Stout in the 2016 World Beer Cup and recognition for Best IPA and Best Lager in the 2016 World Beer Awards, awarded to their Otay IPA and Chula Pils Pilsner. Their NOVA hard kombuchas have also garnered acclaim.

NOVA Kombucha, a prominent hard kombucha brand in Southern California, achieved acclaim through its dedication to excellence and innovation, earning multiple awards at the San Francisco Bartender Spirits Awards in both 2022 and 2023.

Securing a contract with Snapdragon Stadium marked a pivotal moment for the company, solidifying its presence in the San Diego sports scene. NOVA earned the esteemed titles of Official Hard Kombucha of Snapdragon Stadium and Official Hard Kombucha of the San Diego Wave FC women’s soccer team, showcasing a strong commitment to community engagement and sports.

In 2022, NOVO Brazil Brewing Company was among the final four finalists for the prestigious EDC’s MetroConnect prize, a testament to its forward-thinking strategies and innovation. Its inclusion in the esteemed MetroConnect Cohort further solidified its influence in the industry and its global aspirations.

Novo Brazil Brewing’s mission is about creating fun experiences, supporting the community and sharing the joy of exceptional brews with the world. Embark on a flavorful journey at Novo Brazil Brewing and immerse yourself in a world where tradition meets innovation! For more information and to plan your visit, explore www.novobrew.com or contact them at contact@novobrew.com.

LEADers On The Move

LEADNews

November 14, 2023

We enjoy seeing what our graduates are doing and how they are making an impact on the world. Share your good news with us via email: lead@sdchamber.org.

Ryan Maxson (Impact 2015) is now the Director of Government Relations for the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) San Diego.

Haley Wonsley (Impact 2019) is now the director of Advancement Communications and Marketing for Cal State University San Marcos.

Lakeysha Sowunmi (Impact 2023) founded the San Diego Chapter for the Women’s Affordable Housing Network.

Sarah Ahern (Advance 2023) is the Vice President of the newly founded San Diego Chapter for the Women’s Affordable Housing Network.

Deanna Ratnikova (Advance 2020) is the founder of The GO Deck San Diego.

Kazeem Omidiji (Impact 2017 & Influence 2022) was awarded the Corporate Community Leader Award at the Young, Inclusive, and Entreprenuer Gala by the County of San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce.

Hon. Jordan Marks (Impact 2018) was awarded the 2023 Emerging Professional Award by the International Association of Assessing Officers.

Eva Bryant (Impact 2024) has been named Volunteer of the Year by San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum.

Adriana Mendoza (Impact 2019) has been named 2023-24 Leadership Training Institute Fellow by Chicano Federation of San Diego County.

Venus Molina (Influence 2023) has been named 2023-24 Leadership Training Institute Fellow by Chicano Federation of San Diego County.

Liz Ramirez (Advance 2020 & Influence 2023) has been named 2023-24 Leadership Training Institute Fellow by Chicano Federation of San Diego County.

Scott Chadwick (Influence 2015) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

Dr. Charles Davis (Influence 2016) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jim Gruny (Influence 2023) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

Hernán Luis y Prado (Impact 2015 & Influence 2023) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

Melissa Malone-Montgomery (Engage 2021) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

Jeff Wiemann (Influence 2022) has been named 2023 Top 50 Veteran Business Leaders of Influence Honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

 

 

2023 International Tribute Awardees

EventEventsPolicy

November 13, 2023

The annual International Tribute Awards is the Chamber’s signature international event to honor outstanding individuals and businesses who have made a substantial contribution to the binational initiatives bridging the U.S. and Mexican economies. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with leaders from both sides of the border.

Learn More

This year’s awardees include:

  • International Organization of the Year – 4 Walls International
  • Cross-Border Collaboration Award – USD’s School of Law
  • Cross-Border Legacy Award – Sally Carrillo, Retired, Assistant Director of Port Operations, San Diego Field Office U.S. Customs and Border Protection

2023 International Tribute Awards honorees

 

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Time: 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
5:00 p.m. – Networking | 6:00 p.m – Awards Program | 6:30 p.m – Networking resumes

Location: Mingei International Museum | Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama, 1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

 

THANK YOU SPONSORS

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Title Sponsor:

Corporate Sponsors:

Numerous sponsorship opportunities are available for this event. Please contact Sherman Stocker at sstocker@sdchamber.org or (619) 544-1354.

San Diego County Special Election Results

Uncategorized

November 13, 2023

NOTE: As of Thursday, November 9 most of the remaining outstanding ballots are eligible for the “signature cure” process. For this reason, the next update may not occur until certification of the election.

Before we certify an election, we must make sure every eligible vote is counted. For mail ballot envelopes returned with a missing or non-matching signature, voters are mailed a letter and allowed to verify and provide their signature so their ballot can be counted. Once “cured” the ballot can be removed from the envelope and processed into the count. Voters have until November 20 to cure these situations.

Election Results Explained

City of San Diego Housing Action Package 2.0

Uncategorized

November 13, 2023

the San Diego City Council referred Mayor Todd Gloria’s Housing Action Package 2.0 back to Land Use & Housing Committee.

Housing Action Package 2.0 is a set of policies that aims to implement state law to allow the construction of more new homes near transit, provide protections to existing residents, and increase the supply of land available for new home development.

Councilmembers expressed the need to create regulations that encourage the development of homes for San Diego’s diverse population but could not reach a consensus after several hours of public comment and discussion.

Despite the outcome, Mayor Gloria has expressed interest in reviewing the package and bringing it back at a later date.

The Chamber spoke in support of the package and will continue to monitor next steps on this policy proposal.

Learn More