APR 2017 – President’s Article by Todd Underwood

/in /by

Spring is in the air! There’s nothing like the sweet smell of the orange blossoms in Redlands.  It’s great to see so many people out and enjoying the city.

I really enjoyed the lunch meeting with the Knights of the Round Table last week. We had an interesting discussion about the history and the future of Redlands.

We definitely have some hard work ahead of us as the City and the downtown businesses address the parking issues. Some of the ideas that we have heard include parking garages, shuttles, and metered parking.

Thank you to our sponsors for their support of the State of the Community Luncheon on June 9th.  We appreciate your generosity:  Ayers Hotel Redlands, Redlands Community Hospital, Teamsters Local 1932, SCE, So Cal Gas, and WalMart.  Be sure to make your reservations early as this event always sells out.

APR 2017 – Chamber adds to the Rise ‘N Shine Program

/in /by

Chamber adds to Rise ‘N Shine Programs

For more than 25 years, Rise ‘n Shine Redlands has been informing and entertaining luring guests to the University of Redlands at 7:00 AM on the first Friday of each month.

City Council, School Board, Police and Fire Departments offer updates, service clubs and organizations promote their missions and fundraising activities, member businesses are showcased and fun is had by all.

Starting in April the Chamber will offer sponsorship to the monthly event. A presenting sponsor will be noted in all electronic notifications with a link to their website. The business sponsor will be a given two tickets to the event, a display table at the program along with a banner display and time on the agenda to promote the business.  The Chamber’s mid-month mailer will include information about the sponsor as well. The monthly sponsor will be announced on the Chamber’s Facebook and Twitter accounts with more than 1900 followers.

“We believe adding this showcase opportunity to our businesses enhances what we offer and provides a platform to market to decision makers.” said Todd Underwood, Chamber president.

Board Member, Mike Limon, is orchestrating the schedule of Rise ‘n Shine presenting sponsors. If you would like to be added to the schedule call Mike at 792-5761 or call the Chamber office at 793-2546.

 

APR 2017 – Marijuana in the Workplace

/in /by

 

Marijuana and workplace policies

By; Erika Frank J.D.

CalChamber General Council

 

 

On November 8, 2016, California joined several other states in legalizing recreational use of marijuana by adults.

Proposition 64, legalizes the recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 years of age and older, imposes a 15% excise tax on marijuana sales and establishes a regulatory framework for the sale of marijuana.

However, despite the passage of Prop 64, several things will not change. Smoking or ingesting marijuana in public will remain unlawful, as will smoking or ingesting marijuana in places where smoking tobacco is also prohibited. Similarly driving under the influence of marijuana will remain illegal.

When it comes to workplace, California employers can take a deep breath of fresh air, because Prop 64 maintains the status quo for employers seeking to maintain a drug and alcohol free workplace.

Employers’ policies related to drug possession, use and impairment as well as testing are not compromised with the legalization of marijuana use under Prop 64. Marijuana will still remain an illegal Schedule I substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act, so even with the passage of Prop 64, employers may continue to prohibit use, possession and impairment at work and may continue to test for use when appropriate.

Pre-employment drug testing is also a lawful mechanism employers may currently use to maintain a drug-free workplace. California employers may conduct pre-employment drug testing of all applicants before hire and deny employment if the drug test comes back positive, even if the applicant was legally using marijuana under the state’s Compassionate Use Act.

Employers should review existing policies and remind employees not only about the company’s drug-free workplace police and practices but also to specify that marijuana is also prohibited.

When reviewing existing policies or creating new ones, make sure your policy clearly states the company’s position on drugs in the workplace, including marijuana. In addition if you conduct pre-employment drug testing, inform all applicants of this policy and clarify that they will also be tested for marijuana use.

Once your policy is review and distributed, be sure to follow the policy and steer clear of exceptions. Also consider the following when developing a drug-free workplace;

Establish a policy banning the use, possession or sake of drugs in the workplace and on company property and banning employees from being under the influence or an illegal or controlled substance while on the job, including alcohol and marijuana.

Train all supervisors about the company’s drug-free policy.

Train supervisors to identify signs of drug or alcohol use.

Clearly communicate your policy and consider re-distributing the policy on an annual basis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APR 2017 – Chamber to present State of the Community Luncheon

/in /by

Chamber to present State of the Community Luncheon June 9th

The Redlands Chamber of Commerce along with, Southern California Edison, SoCalGas, Redlands Community Hospital, Ayers Hotel Redlands, Walmart and Teamsters Local 1932, will present the Annual State of the Community Luncheon, Friday, June 9th; 12:00 PM at the Orton Center, University of Redlands, check-in begins at 11:30 AM

Mayor Paul Foster will facilitate the event and address the community, explaining accomplishments, announcing plans, awarding outstanding citizen volunteers and businesses community pride awards and much more. Council Members will each have a role in the presentation along with a video presentation showcasing Redlands.

“This event is an excellent opportunity for our Mayor and Council to meet with the citizens and business leaders of Redlands. It will give them an opportunity to share both the immediate and long term vision for the city, along with accomplishments and challenges” said Todd Underwood, Chamber President. “We are delighted to once again present the annual event.”

The awards presented will be the 3rd Annual Beautification Award, for New Construction with landscaping, Existing Development with Landscaping, Adaptive Reuse of Historic Property, Sustainable Design and Innovation. The 2017 Heroes Awards will be presented to individuals or organizations that demonstrate meaningful commitment of time and service that addresses community need and or enhance the quality of the life demonstrating generosity and kindness for the residents of Redlands.  Nominations can be downloaded at heroes@cityofredlands.org, beautification@cityofredlands.org or can be picked up at the Chamber office, 47 N. 47th Street.

The cost of the luncheon is $35 per person, reservations are required.

For more information about the State of the Community Luncheon or to make reservations, call 793-2546.

 

APR 2017 – Member profile – The Castaway Restaurant

/in /by

The Castaway offers a tropical oasis overlooking the San Bernardino valley

Venture to the rolling hills of San Bernardino to explore a tropical oasis nestled above the valley. Take in the sweeping views and dine on fresh, seasonal and high-quality ingredients crafted to perfection and paired with the finest wines, only at The Castaway, located at 670 Kendall Drive, San Bernardino.

Voted Inland Empire’s Best Romantic Restaurant and Best Ambiance, feel at peace surrounded by everything nature has to offer. From the beautiful, natural light emanating through the floor-to-ceiling windows; the romantic twinkle of the stars and moonlight; the stone paths adorned by the manicured garden; the calm swirl of the pond and waterfalls; and the warmth emitted from the wooden interior, the Castaway experience is one of a kind.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quick drink after dark on the terrace; an unforgettable three-course anniversary meal; a family getaway for the best brunch in the Inland Empire; a celebration set against an elegant, breathtaking backdrop; an intimate moment shared with a loved one over a decadent dessert; or an important business deal sealed over a Prime Rib dinner – The Castaway is the local’s favorite escape.

Discover San Bernardino’s most sought after dining experience.

The Castaway’s grounds are adorned with Polynesian-style buildings and décor, waterfalls and American contemporary cuisine with a tropical touch. Dedicated to providing a welcoming atmosphere filled with the finest food, libations and first-class service to match its exquisite views, The Castaway is truly San Bernardino’s shining gem on the hill.

The Castaway specializes in contemporary American steakhouse cuisine with an island twist. The menu features robust and flavorful dishes marinated with tropical ingredients. If you’re visiting the dining room and patio between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., choose from the delicious three-course prix fixe Sunset Menu, or meet friends for Happy Hour Monday – Friday 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the bar and on the patio with food and drink specials for $4, $5, $6 and $7.

If you are looking to cater a special event, Mary Bottinger can provide the perfect ambiance and menu to meet your needs.

For more information about The Castaway, call 909-881-1502 or email. castawaysb@srcmail.com. For menu selection or promotions and special event news log onto www.castawaysanbernardino.com.

 

 

APR 2017 – Member Profile – Speakeasy of State Street

/in /by

Take a step back into the chamber and glamour of the late 1800 at Speakeasy on State Street

Finished in 1899, the Columbia building was the last building built on the first block of E. State Street and has been utilized for gatherings both large and small. Located on Redland’s iconic State Street, this historic gem was closed since 1948.

Karl C. Wells was an astute businessman and banker in Redlands during the mid to late 1800s. Mr. Wells was responsible for donating the original land to found the University of Redlands in 1907.

Wells had for a long time dreamed of owning a downtown business building but was unable to do so until 1899. The majority of East State St. had been built up during the late 1880s; however the only structure standing at 10 E. State St. was the home of M. F. Pierce which was removed by force due to a fire ordinance enforced by the city. In 1899, Wells christened his “Columbia” building and it was first occupied by Meserve’s Clothing Store the following year. Only a few years later in 1902 the Redlands City Directory shows the upstairs of 10 E. State St. was utilized as a meeting lodge for a fraternal organization founded during the American Civil War named The Knights of Pythias. By the late 1930s, the building was home to a chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The City of Redlands leased the VFW hall to host community dances and as a recreation center. The city continued its use of the building through the 1940s.

Following the end of World War II (1945) the VFW moved to a different location. According to the City of Redlands Archives use of the second floor of the Columbia building during that time waned. It is believed that the upstairs portion of 10 E. State St. was utilized during the Prohibition Era (1922-1933) as a speakeasy (aka. illegal drinking spots). Today Speakeasy on State is still equipped with its red light which helped indicate to customers the need to hide all alcohol. In the pocket doors leading into The Ballroom you’ll find two holes, the upper hole was utilized to visualize anyone seeking access, the lower of the two holes was utilized for the weapon that helped ensure there was no trouble.

The building was most recently purchased in 2012 and the second floor has been completely restored with some modern updates.  Speakeasy on State offers 4,ooo square feet of elegance, mixed with beautiful hard woods, raw exposed brick, and the finest period specific details – found nowhere else in town.  Proudly representing the heartbeat of downtown Redlands, Speakeasy on State boasts two large gathering rooms, each with their own distinct feel, a bridal suite, restrooms and a preparation kitchen.

Entering into to Columbia Room, you will gasp as you step into this beautiful space.  You’ll find wall to wall hard wood floors, large elegant period specific chandeliers, exposed brick and mortar dating back to the inception of downtown Redlands, all brightly lit with natural lighting shining through tree massive double hung windows.  The Columbia Room is a perfect backdrop for your next weeding ceremony or private dinner party.  The Ballroom beckons you through the oversized pocket doors where you’ll stop in your tracks as you try and take it all in.  the vaulted ceiling, the Edison lights, the original ceiling fans, the red prohibition light, the high sided wood wainscoting, and the wall to wall sparkling wood floors will transport you back in time.  The space has been equipped with custom designed sound panels to help with the acoustics for your special event.

If you are looking for a unique location for your next very special event call the Speakeasy on State Street, 909.501.5524 to arrange for a visit or log onto www.speakeasyonstate.com and step back in time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APR 2017 – New Chamber Members – March 2017

/in /by

MANSION MEMORIES
Dianna Lawson
1222 W. Cypress Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 215-0699

MIGUEL’S JR RESTAURANT
Stephen Rezner
27521 San Bernardino Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 951-371-7234

RADIX FITNESS
Ivan Pacewiczh
308 W. State Street #1B
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 654-8165

RITA SHAW BROKER & ASSOCIATES INC
Rita Shaw
1107 Orange Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 798-1000

SB CO. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
AGENCY WORKFORCE
Mariam Chelaby
215 North “D” Street, Suite 201
San Bernardino, CA 92415
Phone: 913-1816

STEPS 4 LIFE COMMUNITY SERVICES
Cynthia McGuigan
301 9th Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 800-9970

 

APR 2017 – Chamber Members renewing in March 2017

/in /by

ALFARO CATERING
Pat Alfaro
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 760-553-6298|
www.alfarocateringservices.com

BON APPETIT UNIVERSITY CLUB & CATERING
Simona Mitroi
1259 E. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 748-8970
www.cafebonappetit.com

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
Ricci Dula
P. O. Box 8910
Redlands, CA 92375
Phone: 793-2463
www.bsa-ciec.org

CALIMESA COUNTRY CLUB
Bev Carlson
1300 3rd Street
Calimesa, CA 92320
Phone: 795-2488

CAROLYN’S CAFÉ
Keith & Jan Kahn
1150 Brookside Avenue, Suite A
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 335-8181

COVENTRY PET RESORT & TRAINING CENTER
Deborah Salow|
412 Tennessee Street|
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-1163
www.coventrypetresort.com

DALE E. VENTRES
RESIDENTIAL MEMBER
Redlands, CA 92373

DAVID RAFF & COMPANY
David Raff
1467 Ford Street, Suite 200
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 335-8900
www.draffco.com

EAST VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
Annette Coffey
820 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 792-4818
www.eastvalleyaor.org

GUAY WILSON, ATTORNEY
Guy Wilson
14 North 8th Street
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2044

IMAGINE SYSTEMS, INC.
John Easley|
1730 Plum Lane, Suite A
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 792-9063
www.imaginesystems.net

INLAND EMPIRE RESIDENTIAL CENTERS
Penny Radtke
710 Church Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 798-0923
www.ieresidentialcenters.org

INLAND SURGERY CENTER
Jacquelin Belcher
1620 Laurel Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-4701
www.scasurgery.com

LEWIS OPERATING CORP
Lyrissa Roman
1150 No. Mountain Avenue
Upland, CA 91786
Phone: 949-7551
www.lewisop.com

LIFEWAVE
Susie Mierzwik
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Phone: 709-3075
www.lifewave.com/stevesusie

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY
Teresa Carter
1473 Ford Street, Suite 200
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2100
www.kw.com

MIRAU, EDWARDS, CANNON, LEWIN & TOOKE
Mark Edwards
1806 Orange Tree Lane, Suite C
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 793-0200
www.mechlaw.com

MONTECITO MEMORIAL PARK & MORTUARY
Kelley Bowden
3520 E. Washington Street
Colton, CA 92324
Phone: 825-3024
www.dignitymemorial.com/montecito-memorial-park

MORONGO TRIBAL TANF
Lydia Snyder
720 Carnegie Drive, Suite 150
San Bernardino, CA 92408
Phone: 951-260-9493
www.morongonation.org

MOTEL 6 REDLANDS
A. J. AHIR
1120 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 793-2001
www.motel6.com/redlandsca

NAPOLI ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Sam Singh
24960 Redlands Blvd
Loma Linda, CA 92354
Phone: 796-3770
www.napoli-italian.com

OFFICE SOLUTIONS, LLC
Mike Hokana
23303 La Palma Avenue
Yorba Linda, CA  92337
Phone:  1-800-859-0128
www.officesolutions.com

PLYMOUTH VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Kevin Kasin
900 Salem Drive
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-1233
www.plymouthvillage.org

REDLANDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Kathleen Blanchard
1093 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 793-2181|
www.redlandsanimalhospital.net

REDLANDS COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION, INC.
Beverly Noerr
168 So. Eureka Street
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-7316
www.redlandsbowl.org

REDLANDS DENTAL GROUP
Lisa Chatwood
422 Orange Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 792-7500
www.redlandsdental.com

REDLANDS SUNRISE ROTARY
Micah White/Beth Sanders
P. O. Box 8667
Redlands, CA 92375
www.redlandssunriserotary.org

REYNOLDS LAW, LLP
Scott Reynolds
300 E. State Street, Suite 450
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 798-3190
www.gawanmale.com

ROTARY CLUB OF REDLANDS
Ralph Feller
131 Cajon Street, Suite 5
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 798-0953
www.redlandsrotary.org

SACRED HEART ACADEMY
Angela Williams
215 So. Eureka Street
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-3958
www.sha-redlands.org

SAN BERNARDINO VALLEY WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Angie Quiroga
1630 W. Redlands Blvd, Suite A
Redlands, CA 92373|
Phone: 793-2503|
www.sbwcd.dst.ca.us

SELAH CHRISTIAN STORE
Les Spoelstra
415 Tennessee Street|
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-2175
www.selahchristianstore.com

STIFEL
Elizabeth Baptista
1901 Orange Tree Lane, Suite 110
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 307-8478
www.stifel.com

STOR-N-LOCK SELF STORAGE
Del & Pam Armstrong
1006 No. Wabash Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 389-7867
www.stor-n-lock.com/redlands-self-storage

T.A.B.S. INC.
Ron Drake
155 W. Hospitality Lane, Suite 123
San Bernardino, CA 92408
Phone: 890-2434
www.tabs-inc.com

THE ROCHFORD FOUNDATION –
BURRAGE MANSION
Ellen Timothy
1205 W. Crescent Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-5251
www.micahhouseredlands.org/the-burrage-mansion

UCR GROUP
CIRCA 2020
Stephanie Wilson
P. O. Box 9836
Redlands, CA 92375
Phone: 818-299-2594
www.theucrgroup.com

WHISKERS AND TAILS PET SITTING
Rachel Brown
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 520-0913
www.whiskersandtailspetsit.com

 

MAR 2017 – President’s Article by Todd Underwood

/in /by

Thank you to all who came to the Chamber ribbon cutting on February 13th.  We had good weather, great food and a wonderful time socializing.

As you know, Redlands is in the process of transitioning to city wide district divisions. This is a daunting task.  Having reviewed the maps available to us, your Chamber Government Review Committee is recommending that the Board support Map Draft 2b.  The most appealing component of this draft is that four of the five districts reach into downtown Redlands.  We believe that with Map Draft 21b, the majority of the districts will share the focus of our economic center.  Once the districts have been defined and selected, the Chamber will work closely with the city officials and the business community to ensure that each district is well represented.