With summer in the rear view mirror, the Chamber is looking to finish out the year strong.


We have had an outstanding year this 2014, delivering programs, services, professional development seminars, networking opportunities and other events that help strengthen Carlsbad's business community.
There's still much to be accomplished, and many services you can take part of as a Chamber member.


Join us for the fall edition of the Carlsbad Village Faire, the largest one-day street faire in the United States, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2. The faire, which usually draws more than 100,000 people, takes place along the Village of Carlsbad on Grand Avenue from Carlsbad Boulevard to Jefferson Street. If you need help, visit the Chamber's booth at the center of State Street and Grand Avenue.


With the general election coming up in November, I encourage everyone to become educated on the propositions that will be on the ballot.


The Chamber will be reviewing those that have a distinct impact on businesses. Look for an important legislative update from the Carlsbad Chamber in an e-mail that will be sent before the election.


There are also two city council seats up in contention. The seats are currently held by Mark Packard and Michael Schumacher, who are being challenged by two candidates, John Bahr and Patrick Knapp. We've asked all of them a series of business-related questions, and you can read their responses on Page 8 of this issue. The Chamber's policy is not to endorse political candidates, but we want our voters to familiarize themselves with the issues and vote for candidates that support business.


The mayor's seat is also up for election and Mayor Matt Hall is running unopposed, as are City Clerk Barbara Engleson and City Treasurer Craig Lindholm.


Lastly, be aware of new laws that State has passed that will impact businesses. The most notable is the paid sick leave bill. All employees who meet certain minimum thresholds will be allowed to take 3 sick days per year.


In addition, employers will have to track accrued sick leave up to eight days per year. For more on that issue, turn to page 4 to the Human Resource Law section by Lou Storrow, the Chamber's vice chairman of strategic planning.


In other news, be on the lookout for the Chamber's newest publication, "Carlsbad Means Business," which will be released this month. This publication, an update of the Annual Business Resource Guide, includes a look at the accomplishments of some Chamber members who are in the City of Carlsbad's identified key cluster. If you are a Chamber member, the publication will either be delivered to you along with your 2015 Member plaque by an ambassador or it will be mailed to you.


On other news, the Chamber continues to work with the city of Carlsbad on the Carlsbad sign. The city continues to be a good partner and we are working together to resolve the last details before the installation of the sign can begin.


Enjoy our beautiful fall weather and be prepared for our ongoing fire season.

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