by: Lori Lawson, New Line Associates

Cyber security experts have been telling us for several years now that it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when identity theft will impact our lives.  We can’t predict it and we can’t prevent it.  What we can do is watch for it and be prepared for when it does happen.  Although it’s open season on us all year round, it’s more intense around the holidays.  We’re distracted with shopping, decorating, preparing for guests, preparing to travel, parties, and more shopping.  Identity Thieves are thrilled by this because it makes it easier for them to slip in and out without notice.  It may be January and in some cases February before we realize something has happened and by then, the thieves are long gone. 
 
Fortunately, if it’s a fraudulent charge, our financial institution will help us out, but if it’s not that, then we need to find a way to deal with it.  Here are a couple of things you can do to keep tabs on your money and your identity this holiday season.

by Quantal Langford
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For driven individuals, reaching their greatest potential is always the end destination. I find myself always wanting to read that next great book—or maybe write the next great one. I'm driven to create another new design or concept. I’m always looking to get out of my comfort zone to reach whatever vision I’m looking to make into reality. 
If there is something you are passionate about that gives you purpose, go after it. I want everyone to follow these aspirations. However, we can be so focused on creating a lifestyle that makes us feel energized and passionate that sometimes we allow our ego and mind to take over something that began with our heart and feelings. 

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce and Genentech have collaborated to provide $20,000 in classroom grants for Oceanside Unified School District. The grants were awarded to more than 35 educators of students in kindergarten through 12th grade for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related projects.
 
The grants were disbursed in increments averaging approximately $500, and will be used to provide much needed funds for equipment, experiments, classroom projects and field trips related to STEM.

At the November 2nd meeting of the Oceanside City Council, The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce was named the Veteran Non-Profit Organization of the Year.  Oceanside City Councilmember Jerry Kern, along with Assemblymember Rocky Chavez, and Congressman Darrell Issa made presentations to the Chamber in honor of its work in supporting local and national veterans organizations.

Congressman Issa and Councilmember Kern presented certificates of recognition to Chamber staff members Scott Ashton and Kristi Hawthorne.