CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT-ELECT: Will serve as President-Elect 2023-2024: PRESIDENT 2024-2025; PAST PRESIDENT 2025-2026
CANDIDATES FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Will serve 2023-2026
CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT-ELECT
Amber Berkey
Michelle's Place
Cancer Resource Center
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
It would be an honor to serve as President-elect. I greatly respect the members, staff, and volunteers of the Chamber who work diligently every day to make Fallbrook the best that it can be.
The Board of Directors works collaboratively to oversee the legacy of the Chamber and prepare the way for its future successes. It would be a privilege to take a further leadership role in this endeavor.
I look forward to contributing to the community in which I was raised, and where I have chosen to raise my family, in any and every way possible.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
My experience as a 15-year nonprofit professional has given me a thorough understanding of the operations and fiscal responsibility of a board-led organization, and of my responsibilities as a board member and executive member of the board. This past year I have served as Secretary to the Board of Directors for the Fallbrook Chamber, and I have extensive experience both volunteering and leading volunteers.
My love for this community motivates me to collaborate and give back in ways that will extend beyond my lifetime and set an example for my children to be involved and give back themselves.
Perhaps the biggest asset I have to this position is my firsthand knowledge of Fallbrook as a longtime resident. Now raising my own family here, I engage with all facets of community- the business community, nonprofit organizations, schools, our church, youth sports, etc.
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members and community of Fallbrook.
Fallbrook and its surrounding communities have over 100 nonprofit organizations. As a nonprofit professional, I see the opportunity to provide networking and education specific to the nonprofit sector through the Chamber and its existing resources. Providing this locally allows for nonprofits of all sizes and operating budgets to participate without having to travel outside of the area for support. The nonprofits that serve Fallbrook are a valuable and vital resource to all residents and strengthening our local organizations strengthens the entire community.
CANDIDATES FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mike Stanicek
RJ Campo Realty, Inc.
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
I love helping and supporting local businesses in North County and in the Fallbrook area. It is a way for me to connect and learn from many wonderful people who share a positive view of where we are going as a community.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
- Strong marketing and business acumen.
- International business experience.
- P&L ownership.
- Servant leader.
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members and community of Fallbrook.
Thinking beyond networking to help local businesses succeed and a deep desire to serve. I am an active listener but also biased towards action. I believe I have the ability to take complete issues that I can translate into achievable actions.
Deborah Bottomley
Arlan Knutson Insurance Agency
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
I have been serving on The Fallbrook Chamber Board for the past 3 years and would like to serve another term because they have continued to provide me the support, encouragement and resources to help my business grow as well as connect with other business owners and the community. As a member of the Fallbrook Board of Directors, I want to continue contributing to the planning and implementation of projects, support events, and programs to assist other businesses and Fallbrook residents.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
I have served on the Board for the past 3 years. I have been an ambassador of the Chamber for 7 years. Since joining the Chamber in 2016, I have volunteered annually at several community events including Bark in the Park, Avocado Festival, the Harvest Faire, and most anywhere needed, when I am available. I have been on the committee for the Annual Charity Golf Tournament since I joined. I competed for Fallbrook Honorary Mayor in 2019 raising funds for the Fallbrook Chamber and the Fallbrook V.F.W.
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members and community of Fallbrook.
I have been on the board for the past 3 years and actively involved with the Chamber, which has enabled me to get to know a lot of other business owners and residents. I love this community! Fallbrook business owners know their voices are heard and that there is a place to go when we have ideas, or concerns. The place business leaders’ trust for assistance is the Chamber. The Chamber can implement change when needed and gives our businesses and residences support and services. I know I will continue to be an asset to the Board because I am committed and will work hard as a team member to help the Chamber carry on their efforts to improve the livelihood of both business leaders and individuals who reside and trade in our unique and friendly village.
Sarah Holt
Moonlite Chic Boutique
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
Through my Chamber membership, I have a newfound passion for the community of Fallbrook and the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has been a valuable resource to me and my small business and I would love the opportunity to give back by serving on the Board of Directors.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
I pride myself on working hard and dedicating my time to areas and causes that are meaningful to me. I feel my past professional experiences in the banking industry, other Board service positions and volunteer service has given me tools and skill set that will benefit the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce.
I have over 30 years of experience in the banking industry where I worked my way from a branch banking teller position to a VP/Manager position in the commercial banking group. I learned from the ground up and worked my way up
the ranks. I am proud of the time spent and accomplishments made during my banking career.
My community service background includes over 20 years of non-profit Board service experience; approximately five years with the Community Association’s Institute of San Diego and 15 years with the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. I have served on numerous committees and various Board and Officer positions, including as Board Chair at BGC Vista during 2020-2021. I am currently serving a 2-year Board position as Past Chair. Additionally, I have volunteered with an animal rescue organization for over 10 years because I have a great love and passion for animals and I love the work they do to save animal lives
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members, and community of Fallbrook.
I am a 15-year Fallbrook Resident and I love this Community and the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce. As a local small business owner, I understand the importance of the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce to the entire community and am dedicated to supporting its mission “To support business and build a better community”. The personal connections and friendships made are an added bonus!
Thank you for the opportunity to be considered for a Board of Directors position and to be of service to the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce and to our wonderful Community.
David Zumaya
My San Diego North County
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
I believe in supporting local businesses and providing resources for success. Integrity, positivity, professionalism, and passion are the words that describe me best. Supporting the Fallbrook Chamber and its members is important and I will continue this mission wholeheartedly.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
My job with My San Diego North County is to share the best of North County. I promote and support local businesses, restaurants, entertainment, community events, and much more. I am a digital marketing advocate and share my skill with others to help them succeed.
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members and community of Fallbrook.
The recent addition of working with the SBA – Small Business Development Center, SBDC will improve my services to include free professional counseling, workshops, and on-demand training. These are valuable resources I will be sharing with the community of Fallbrook.
Dianna Branche
Individual Member
1. Why I would like to serve on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
I would like to continue giving back to the community where I raised my children.
2. My past experiences I feel will be an asset to this position:
- Helped start the Avocado Festival
- Served as Honorary Mayor
- Served as President of the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
- Served as Director on the Board of D’Vine Path
- Served as President of Soroptimist International
- Awarded Citizen of the Year 1989
- Owned several businesses in Fallbrook.
- Long-time community volunteer
3. Please share any other relevant information that makes you feel qualified for this position. Include any thoughts and ideas you may have which would benefit the Board, Chamber members and community of Fallbrook.
I have been very involved in the community and raised my children in Fallbrook to be community volunteers and advocates. I am passionate about the entire population from the young to the old to special populations. I currently am the Director of Culinary Arts/Hospitality at D’Vine Path, a program for adults with autism and other disabilities, specializing in horticulture, viticulture, hospitality and social skills.
I have cultivated relationships throughout my time in Fallbrook, which allows me to be helpful in any organization. I believe that I can further the Chamber Mission Statement and help support businesses and organizations and build a better community.
Theresa Geracitano
Fallbrook Regional Health District
