Port O Call - February 2012

PORT CALL GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Vol. 57 No. 10

www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012

State of the City 2012 to be held in May! CVB Named Sports Events 2012 Readers’ Choice Winner

Bank of Stockton 145 Years of Service PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 461 STOCKTON CA

Main Photograph by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography, Smaller Photos Courtesy The Bank Of Stockton Historical Photograph Collection.

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PORT CALL

Bank of Stockton - 145 Years of Service

Photograph Courtesy The Bank Of Stockton Historical Photograph Collection.

CONTENTS From Your President

4

From Your CEO

5

Events

6

Leadership Stockton

7

13

6

State of the City to be held in May!

Convention & Visitors Bureau 8 Programs and Public Policy Department

10

New Members

11

Ribbon Cuttings

12

Cover Story

13

News Briefs

15

Calendar

17

CVB Named Sports Events 2012 Readers’ Choice Winner

8

Don’t Miss!

Networking Mixer

San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave. February 2, 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Bank of Stockton 145 Years and Going Strong.

Our customers’ Satisfaction is Our Greatest Reward!

We are proud to continue to serve generations of families and businesses with quality products and personalized service. When you need someone to count on for your bank, look to us.

Strong, safe and secure since 1867.

www.bankofstockton.com

Personal Banking • Business Banking • Wealth Management

Member FDIC

From Your President... by: Debbie Armstrong

Happy New Year to all my fellow Stocktonians and let us all look forward to a great 2012.

experiencing now. It is not someone else’s job but all of our jobs to make changes in our community!

We have so many long time businesses that have been

Having been born and raised in

Chamber members!

Stockton I have seen many changes. I

Our cover story business, the Bank of Stockton is one of those

remember when as a child my Mom

very businesses I have been talking about. They are not only a long

would put us on the bus with her to

time locally owned Bank in our community but they have been

go downtown to shop and have lunch

a long time committed friend of the community and the Greater

with my Dad, I also remember being a

Stockton Chamber of Commerce.

teenager and spending much of my time

We have so many long time committed members who

with my friends roaming Pacific Avenue. We had great businesses

understand the difference the Chamber makes. I would encourage

and shops then and we have them now!

all of our businesses to come on over and see what makes our

As we moved farther out north and the Lincoln Center arrived and the Malls opened up, we turned into a thriving metropolis.

I would venture that most of those businesses were Chamber members. Why? Because the Chamber is always concerned about our future and we all need to band together in times like we are

PORT CALL CHAMBER OFFICERS PRESIDENT Debbie Armstrong, Old Republic Title Company SR. VICE PRESIDENT Gary J. Long, Gary J. Long Jewelers FINANCIAL VICE PRESIDENT Steven Crabtree, Herum Crabtree VICE PRESIDENT Blain Bibb, ServiceMaster Building Maintenance VICE PRESIDENT Judith Buethe, Judith Buethe Communications IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Rick Goucher, C B Richard Ellis Commercial Real Estate CHAMBER DIRECTORS Stephen Barney, F&M Bank Michael Cera, SMG/Stockton Arena/Bob Hope Theatre Donna DeMartino, San Joaquin Regional Transit District Dan Durst, Durst Contract Interiors Pat Filippone, Stockton Ports Baseball Club Lewis Gale, Eberhardt School of Business Clint Harless, Stockton Auto Glass/Quick’s Glass Service Dan Keyser, Grupe Commercial Company Kenneth Levy, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Sonya Morgan, External Resources, Inc.

Chamber work. Let’s take time for our friends and family in the New Year and remember to shop local and work together to improve our entire community!

May God bless all of our community in the coming year and years!

Official publication of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Serving the Greater Stockton area business community since 1901.

Darryle Oakman, San Joaquin County Rental Property Association Bakul Patel, Dorfman Pacific Tina Williams, Pacific Gas & Electric Company Diane Vigil, Dameron Hospital Foundation Bob Young, Stockton Golf & Country Club CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Douglass W. Wilhoit, Jr.

209.547.2766

PROGRAM & PUBLIC POLICY DIRECTOR/ BEA Frank Ferral 209.547.2763 SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR Heidi Altamirano

209.547.2764

OPERATIONS/FINANCE DIRECTOR Sandy Dwyer 209.547.2770 MEMBERSHIP SALES Matt Anderson

RECEPTIONIST/ CUSTOMER SERVICE Alyssa McConnell 209.547.2770 PUBLISHER Stockton Chamber of Commerce 209.547.2770 GRAPHIC DESIGN Never Boring Design Associates 209.526.9136 ADVERTISING Richelle Alexander

209.988.5800

PRINTING Snyder Parks

209.466.9026

MAILING Snyder Parks

209.466.9026

209.337.2723

SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD. Timm Quinn 209.547.2960

Greater

SCAP COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mikki Gilbert 209.337.2730 SCAP-SE COORDINATOR Michael Morales

209.337.2716

BEA/ SCAP ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Karla Gonzalez 209.547.2770

GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 445 W. Weber Avenue, Suite 220, Stockton, CA 95203 209.547.2770 fax 209.466.5271 schamber@stocktonchamber.org

www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012

4

From Your CEO... by: Doug Wilhoit

stand it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.

Tyranny (my words – gangs and violence), like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; ‘tis dearness only that gives everything its value.”

“Panic, in some cases, have their uses; they produce as much good as hurt. Their duration is always short; the mind soon grows through them and acquires a firmer habit than before. But their particular advantage is, that they are the touchstone of sincerity and hypocrisy, and bring things and men to light, which might otherwise have lain forever undiscovered.”

“A bad cause will ever be supported by bad means and bad men.” And; “A thing moderately good is not so good as it ought to be. Moderation in temper is always a virtue; but moderation in principle is always a vice.”

It is well understood that we are experiencing difficult and

President Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919): “Far better it is

challenging times in America, California and our home, Stockton,

to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though

but if all people put aside self serving politics, personality/political

checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor souls who

conflict, outward finger pointing and self serving philosophy we

neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the grey

will get through this dark tunnel and come out into the bright

twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.”

sunshine all the better for it!

Everyone has a right to be worried but also a responsibility to be part of all the solutions! Remember the old saying: “If you are not

President Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945): “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.”

And finally, Henry Ford (1863-1947): “Coming together is

part of the solution then you are part of the problem!” Just think

a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together

about that for a moment!

is success.”

I could go on and on with my own thoughts but will save you

Please take the time to think about these words spoken so many

that agony and will instead invoke the words from the past. For

years ago and try to put them in context of today and where we

as much as we move forward challenges are always presented to

want to go into the future of Stockton, California and these United

us and those who came before us had some words of wisdom

States of America!

during their challenging times. Hopefully we will try to

As a final note: Please get out and enjoy all that is so good

understand what was said and, if properly invoked, these

in Stockton and San Joaquin County (www.visitstockton.org)

words can make a difference.

and also help to improve our shortcomings so all of us now

Thomas Paine (1737-1809) once stated: “These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that

5

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

and into the future will prosper in a successful and safe community environment!

Events

by: Heidi Altamarino 2012 Golf Tournament

State of the City 2012 to be held in May!

The good news is that our 31st Annual Golf Tournament is not

If you’re ever in doubt that we live in a great community, just

yet sold out! However, we suggest you sign up your foursome

attend our annual State of the City 2012! This year the State of

before it is…. Stockton Golf & Country Club will host our day

the City will be held May 17th at the Port of Stockton. Sponsored

on the greens on April 2, beginning with registration at 10:00

by the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce and the City of

a.m., lunch at 11:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at Noon. After the

Stockton, this event features exhibits showcasing the critical and

tournament, we’ll have an awards reception honoring the top

inspiring services available to you, your loved ones and neighbors,

players of the day.

all in the interest of maintaining a wholesome community.

We still have some terrific sponsorship packages available which

Sponsorships are still available; so take advantage of this

offer high visibility at this signature event. You may also join us

high profile marketing opportunity for your business. For more

a $150 tee or green sponsor, or as a $700 sponsor which includes

information, call Heidi Altamirano at 209.547.2764 or email

signage on a tee or green and registration for a foursome. Single

heidi@stocktonchamber.org.

player registrations are available for $160.

If you’re looking for an easy way to highlight your business products or services, consider donating a prize for our posttournament raffle. It’s an ideal way to market your business to other high-profile business people also supporting and participating in our tournament.

So make at least one of your Mondays in April a fun one by joining us at Stockton Golf & Country Club. Can’t wait for your invitation to arrive in the mail? Just give Timm a call at 209.547.2960, and he’ll be happy to sign you up. Also, call today to have a spectacular sponsorship opportunity packet sent to you.

State of the City 2012 Sponsors (as of 1/4/12) The Record/San Joaquin Platinum Media Group A.G. Spanos Companies United Way of San Joaquin County Bank of Agriculture & Commerce University of the Pacific California Water Service Co. Financial Center Credit Union Grupe Commercial Company Kaiser Permanente Lincoln Center Neumiller & Beardslee Pacific Records Management San Joaquin Delta College St. Joseph’s Medical Center Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau

Gold Builders Exchange of Stockton Oak Valley Community Bank R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. Stockton East Water District Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Table California Water Service Co.

2012 Golf Tournament Sponsors (as of 1/3/12)

Ricky Barnes Sponsor

Business Package Sponsor:

Grupe Commercial Company

Pacific Records Management PDM Steel Port of Stockton San Joaquin Steel Co.

Fred Couples Sponsors: Oak Valley Community Bank Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Beverage Sponsor:

@

Tee Sponsors:

DBI Beverage

Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Builders Exchange of Stockton Judith Buethe Communications

Hole In One Sponsor: Chase Chevrolet

Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764

www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012

6

Become a Certified Green Business!

Leadership Stockton Save money & gain customers by:

by: Timm Quinn

Reducing waste Conserving water and energy Protecting public health Using recycled-content in your products

Leadership Stockton: Local Government Session Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union

www.GreenTeamSanJoaquin.com Special Thanks: City of Stockton, County of San Joaquin, SMALL BUSINESS Stockton Fire Department HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL*

The Local Government session gave the class a unique Affordable Hazardous Waste Management for Your Business A Program of San Joaquin County Public Works perspective on the workings of the city council, as well as a www.SJCrecycle.org

(209) 468-3066

taste ofilocal Low politics. cost way to safely dispose of hazardous materials.

(Costs depend on your waste types.)

For the seventh year, the Leadership Stockton class i Documentation that you properly manage hazardous waste. i Assurance thatscale the material will be disposedmeeting of properly. participated in a full Mock City Council as part *Conditionally

Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQG)

of the Local Government session held at Stockton City Hall Council Chambers on December 9. The meeting was staffed by Bonnie who acted as City Clerk, and Bret Hunter.

We alsoPaige, accept universal andthe electronic waste.

Green BottomasLine The class elected fellowYour class members their city council at with Product Stewardship!

theEconomic September Leadership Retreat. The remainder of the class benefits abound: reduced operating costs, energy savings,

participated in costs, one of groups reduced disposal thethree creation of greenvying jobs. for the mock city council’s vote. www.CalPSC.org

Design it Green | Make it Clean | Conserve Resources | Reduce | Reuse | Eliminate Toxics | Take it Back!

The meeting came with a full agenda and proposals from the

little nuisances of the building from one of the great minds that helped make it a reality.

The Stockton Fire Department finished off the day as the class traveled down to Fire Station # 2 on Sonora Street. There the class received a tour of the station house, the dispatching center and the expansive training grounds from Battalion Chief Van Riviere.

A big thank you to Bonnie Paige, Karen Costa and Bret Hunter for their help in making the Mock City Council meeting run so smoothly. Thank you to Stephen Reid (LS Class of 2000) for scheduling and coordinating the County portion of the day. And thank you to Paul Canepa, Larry Ruhstaller, Gabriel Karam, Lois Sahyoun, Manuel Lopez, Battalion Chief Riviere and Loretta Lee (LS Class of ’09) for taking time out of their busy schedules to speak and share their knowledge with the class.

teams, the premise of the Public Hearing was to consider public comments/testimony regarding the appropriation of funds from the STATE COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT GRANT (CEG). The CEG was a one time, $9 million allocation from the State of California which had to be used for a public good.

The funds could be divided to fund more than one project.

After the mock council meeting Councilmember Paul Canepa, spoke to the class about his journey into local politics.

The class then walked to the County Administration Building and had a great lunch. Board of Supervisors Chairman Larry Ruhstaller joined the class and spoke about his journey into local politics and shared his thoughts on many issues facing the County today. After lunch they received presentation on what the County and Board of Supervisors

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does by Lois Sahyoun, Clerk of the Board. Manuel Lopez, County Administrator, followed with a presentation on what a County Administrator does. The presentation was followed by an all access tour from Gabriel Karam, P.E., LEED AP, Director of Facilities Management. It was a treat to see all the A HUFF CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

7

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

@

Timm Quinn: tquinn@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2960

Convention & Visitors Bureau by: Wes Rhea

Stockton Convention and Visitors Bureau Named SportsEvents 2012 Readers’ Choice Winner

CVB Welcomes New Team Member The Stockton Convention & Visitors

SportsEvents Media

Bureau is proud to announce the

Group, the leading

hiring of Emily Tuel as the Marketing

industry publication

and Communications Coordinator.

focused exclusively on

Tuel is originally from Bayard,

helping sports event

Iowa. She graduated from the

planners produce excellent

University of Kansas with a BA in

competitions in the United

Graphic Design and minor in Art History and Dance. She comes

States and Canada, has

to us from the Special Events team with the Blank Park Zoo in Des

announced its 2012 class of Readers’ Choice Award winners.

The Stockton Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) has

Moines, IA where she promoted and executed events and served as a Graphic Designer for the organization. This position grew

been selected based on their high standard of professionalism and

her dedication and experience in nonprofit marketing, promotion

quality service in hosting their events. A complete list of award

and development. Tuel used her long-time love of dance as the

winners is available online. Winners were listed in the January

Dance Program Supervisor for Lawrence Parks and Recreation in

2012 issue of SportsEvents.

Lawrence, KS and is also currently an Instructor at Melissa’s Dance

Sports event professionals were asked to name the sports commission, convention and visitors bureaus, or sports events

Xtreme here in Stockton.

Having recently moved to the area, she has been playing tourist

venues that they believe display exemplary creativity and

and exploring the many experiences California and Stockton have

professionalism toward the groups they host. Nominations were

to offer. She loves skiing, wine, dance, and musical theater.

received from readers throughout the year, and the top picks were selected based on the results from an online system that registered

Emily joined the SCVB team on January 9. You can reach out to her at Emily@VisitStockton.org.

more than 3,000 votes!

“Due to the power of social media and online voting capabilities, we received an overwhelming response from readers this year, which allowed SportsEvents to honor more than 100 destinations and venues—and the marketing organizations that represent them—with a 2012 Readers’ Choice Award,” said Kristen McIntosh, SportsEvents editor. “These award winners have proven they are willing to go above and beyond the normal service levels expected by providing both the physical attributes and commitment to hospitality and service that today’s discriminating sports event planners demand. It is an honor to announce their selection by sports event planners as some of the best in the United States.”

@

Wes Rhea: wes@visitstockton.org 209.938.1555

Be sure to become a fan on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Stockton.CVB

www.visitstockton.org

FEBRUARY2012

8

Oak Valley COmmunity Bank

We Mean Business

Experience business banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of old-fashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need.

Let us make your business, our business.

Rod Alonzo, Frank Boots, and Joseph Smith of API, Inc., with Peter Brown, VP Commercial Loan Officer, 209.844.7522 and Ron Davenport, VP Area Manager, 209.343.7627

“Oak Valley’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering results was refreshing as we worked through the financing of our new facility. Their knowledge and experience with SBA loan programs made the process run smoothly from beginning to end.”

– Frank Boots, President, Architecture Plus Inc. 9

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

1.866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com

Programs and Public Policy Department by: Frank Ferral REXPO 8 Unplugged Coming March 14 Registration is now open for the Recycling Exposition (REXPO)

a proactive campaign to change the “collect and export” paradigm, to not just divert, but to convert our materials into manufacturing

8 Unplugged at www.greenteamsanjoaquin.com. Click the REXPO

jobs throughout California. Using the additional tonnage which will

8 Unplugged image and it will take you to the registration page.

become available through the new Mandatory Commercial Recycling

The cost to attend the Keynote Lunch address is $30. We are

regulation under AB 341 as a springboard, the Recycling BIN (Build

honored to have Cabinet Secretary Matt Rodriquez of the California

Infrastructure Now) Coalition, comprised of economic development,

Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) as our Keynote Speaker.

local government, business and environmental organizations

The “Unplugged” theme represents a couple of meanings. First, the

working in tandem, was formed for one common reason…to create

event logo demonstrates that energy efficiency starts by unplugging

recycled content value added manufacturing jobs in California.

appliances, office equipment, phone chargers, etc. when not in

The BIN Coalition recently held a statewide Summit attended by

use. These “phantom loads” when plugged in not only add to your

240 individuals (accessible via YouTube: Recycling BIN Summit) to

energy bill, it contributes to air pollution. The second meaning is the

emphasize the need for a statewide strategy. California environmental

perception of double standards and California just doesn’t get it.

legislation like AB 32 cannot be truly sustainable unless it can deliver

Currently, approximately 5-20% of the recyclable materials

real economic benefits as well. Existing recycling based processing

collected in California remain in the State for remanufacturing;

and manufacturing facilities serve as a cornerstone to California’s

the majority of the recycled materials are shipped to other parts of

emerging green economy, but we can—and we must—do much more

the United States or to global markets. So too, are our jobs, tax

to foster this vital infrastructure for sustainability.

revenue and commerce. Achieving the emission reductions under AB 32 is dependent on ensuring that the recyclable materials are recycled into new products, which offers an enormous opportunity to existing and new businesses in California and, with the additional materials being diverted through Assembly Bill 341, will only amplify the opportunities.

After all, it is a precarious wakeup call and rude awakening when you think about it. Eight out of ten pieces of recyclables we place on our curb are being shipped to China for product remanufacturing using non- or under-regulated power grids powered by coal, a huge Green House Gas (GHG) emitter, as our neighbors are losing their jobs and facing foreclosure on their homes. It is ironic, however, that the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) has commissioned a study to verify that much of that pollution is

2.29.12

finding its way back to the shores of California. What are we going to accomplish?

The Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce is the only Chamber in the state to administer one of the 34 Recycling Market Development Zones (RMDZ) in the State of California. Working together, the Chamber and nine Statewide organizations and businesses have begun

@

For more info, contact Frank Ferral at fferral@stocktonchamber.org

www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012 10

New Members

For more information on becoming a new member, please call Matt Anderson at 209.547.2770. Please allow up to 90 days for your listing to show.

Automobile Renting, Leasing & Sales

Gift Shops

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Nanci’s Fanci’s

320 N. Hunter Street Stockton

3714 N. Merrimac Circle Stockton

www.enterprise.com

Engineers Civil 4 Leaf Incorporated 2110 Rheem Drive #A Pleasanton

www.nancisfancis.biz

Packaging & Crating Service & Supplies 1021 E. Hazelton Avenue Stockton

Networking Mixer January 5, University of the Pacific

11 PORT CALL

San Joaquin County S.T.A.R.S.

Pak Master www.4leaf.com

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Non-profit

www.pak-master.com

7000 Michael Canlis Boulevard Stockton

Ribbon Cuttings

For additional information go to www.stocktonchamber.org

Optimal Hospice Care of Stockton 4568 Feather River Drive, Ste. C

Attending Ambassadors

Stockton

Over the

with other Chamber members their

Tim Aragon

last year we

successes and support local business first.

Ojesa Asejo-Clark

performed

Let’s work together and by working in the

Gloria Blaine

over 25 Ribbon

same direction we will make things around

Cuttings

us better.

celebrating

Quick Connect Wireless Rabobank Basket Caravan & Gourmet Gifts

Carol Clemens Angel’s Caring Helpers

Gary Ghan Brookfalls Water

various

Patti Gulick

business

Blair Hake

events in

Nick Harbut

New Image Signs Ameriprise Financial Services INC Eco Chic Salon

the Greater Stockton area. We celebrated

Glenn Jose

Grand Openings & Re-Openings, New

Phyllis Klein

Office Locations and many multiyear

Marilyn Mason

anniversaries to name a few. What was really celebrated was the entrepreneur who made the leap or the business owner who

H.O.P.E Klein Insurance RHA

John Paval Kansas City Life

Ellen Powell Dennis Cardoza Representative

is still doing business, and the non-profit

Justin Redman

organizations continuing to serve San

Vince Rosato

Joaquin county. I would challenge each and

Michelle Sherlock

every one of you to have a presence at the

Gregory Walther

upcoming ribbon cuttings and celebrate

Cindy Ward

Central Valley Community Bank New Image Signs Optimal Hospice Care Press F1 Computer Services Xango

Sam Ward Xango

www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012 12

COVER STORY

Bank of Stockton 145 Years of Service

By Justin Souza

It’s difficult to imagine many things that

According to a history published by Bank

text alerts, where customers are notified when

have remained the same between the Stockton

of Stockton, some of the bank’s early success

their balance is below the threshold they

of 1867 and the Stockton of 2012. Over

rested on consumers’ trust in the integrity

choose, including overdraft alerts that allow

the intervening years, Stockton has grown

of the bank’s founding members, the 29

customers to transfer funds before end of

from a small agricultural community with a

Stockton-area business leaders who provided

day to avoid the overdraft before it happens.

population of around 5,000, to a bustling city

the bank’s starting reserves from their own

From internet banking, to text banking, to

of over 300,000 residents with a deep bench

funds. The founders agreed that Bank of

fraud alerts when personal information has

of industry, a business-friendly infrastructure

Stockton should focus on providing the best

been changed on your account, Bank of

and a lot of charm. But one constant has

possible service to its customers and to its

Stockton has been at the forefront of offering

remained firm over nearly a century and a half

community, even when that meant reduced

the latest in banking technologies for smarter,

profits for shareholders. An early

of Stockton history: the great customer service, exceptional products and community support of Bank of Stockton.

This August, Bank of Stockton celebrates 145 continuous years of dedicated service to the Stockton community. The community bank—the oldest in California still operating under its original charter—has been a major

safer banking.

Shared History

The Bank of Stockton roots in our community run deep and strong

As both Bank of Stockton and the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce have made a business of loving Stockton, it’s no surprise that over the years the two organizations have often found common cause promoting the city’s interests on regional and national stages. The organizations’ shared

force for improvement throughout San

commitment to fostering Stockton’s

Joaquin County since its inception in 1867.

document from the bank, entitled

Bank of Stockton has continually upheld

“An Agreement with Depositors,” established

business community, and their interest in

the principles of its founders by focusing

the priority of depositor security over

promoting essential resources have helped

on serving every customer, prioritizing

corporate profits for the Board of Directors.

make Stockton a more attractive area for a

local industry development, promoting

This principle, still in practice to this day at the

wide variety of industries over the last century.

area businesses and fostering infrastructure

bank, has enabled Bank of Stockton to remain

improvements. Over the years, the bank’s

solvent when many community and national

intertwined, as members of Bank of Stockton

leaders have helped shape some of Stockton’s

banks have been shuttered.

were instrumental in the creation of the

Even the two organizations’ roots are

In the past few decades, Bank of Stockton’s

Chamber in 1901. An article from the San

system to the Port—into the business-friendly

commitment to its customers has extended to

Joaquin Historian honoring the Stockton

forms familiar to us today, even while keeping

pioneering the newest banking technologies,

Chamber’s 100th anniversary credits the

the bank prospering in the face of major

often ahead of larger chains. Recent

formation of the Chamber to the efforts

economic crises.

innovations include text-based banking and

of notable members of the Bank of

most well-known features—from the rail

13 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Photographs Courtesy The Bank Of Stockton Historical Photograph Collection.

Stockton, including Frank M. West. West,

to this day. For example, Doug Wilhoit,

Modesto, Turlock and Elk Grove. The Bank

President of the bank from 1893 to 1909,

current CEO of the Stockton Chamber, is a

has nearly $2 billion in assets as well as an

was a driving force behind the incorporation

descendant of Eugene and R.E. Wilhoit, two

extensive archive of historical photos covering

of the Chamber, and served as its first

Bank Presidents who led the bank from 1909

its service areas and made available free to the

elected President.

to 1949 and who are credited with drawing

public by appointment. “It’s a tremendous

University of the Pacific to its current location

historical resource and very fitting, since Bank

Chamber and Bank of Stockton, West worked

in Stockton during the 1920s. Eugene was also

of Stockton has been such an integral part of

to actively encourage Stockton’s development

a President of the Stockton Chamber from

the history of our communities,” said Brusa.

by spearheading a movement to market

1921-1922. “The Bank of Stockton roots in

The bank is currently led by it’s eighth

During his time as a leader at both the

Stockton and its products throughout

President and CEO, Douglass

the nation. One of West’s longest lasting

Eberhardt, who has championed the

initiatives was the dredging of Stockton’s

ongoing technological innovation

channel which allowed larger vessels

at Bank of Stockton and who—like

to reach Stockton’s port. This initiative,

the Bank’s Presidents before him—is

completed in 1934, created one of

a strong advocate of ongoing

Stockton’s most defining and profitable

community support. According to

characteristics, a feature which has had

information released by the Bank,

a nearly incalculable positive effect on

“Bank of Stockton and its Divisions

the city’s economy during the last century.

Fred M West

R. E. Wilhoit

donate nearly two million dollars annually into the communities that it serves in

West was also credited with a major role in bringing both the Santa Fe and Western

our community run deep and strong,” said

the form of donations. Bank employees are

Pacific Railroads to Stockton. Together, these

Angela Brusa, Vice President and Director of

encouraged to be actively involved in local

advancements made Stockton’s agricultural

Marketing at Bank of Stockton. “The bank was

non-profits, sharing time and talent to help

and industrial products available to both

incepted two years after the Civil War, to bring

our local communities.”

national and international markets and

strength, safety and service to depositors and

established Stockton’s reputation as a great

the community, and it’s been doing that very

Stockton shows no signs of either slowing or

place to do business.

well ever since,” she said.

giving up its central tenets of customer service

Bank of Stockton Today

and community involvement. The bank is well

West’s dual Presidencies set a tone of

As it reaches its 145th year, Bank of

committed community involvement for the

Today, Bank of Stockton and its Divisions

poised to spend another century in its integral

leaders who followed him at both the Bank

encompass 16 branches located in Stockton,

role as promoter, cheerleader and true believer

of Stockton and the Stockton Chamber. The

Lodi, Tracy, Ripon, Manteca, Oakdale, Pine

in the great city of Stockton, California.

close camaraderie that West began persists

Grove, Angels Camp, Sonora, Rio Vista, www.stocktonchamber.org

FEBRUARY2012 14

News Briefs

Submission Guidelines: News Briefs must be submitted before the first of each month to schamber@stocktonchamber.org. Please put “PORT O CALL” in the subject line. Submissions must be no longer than 50 words total and should include contact information. News Briefs will be included on a space available basis and may be edited for content.

Seeking Applications for Membership on the Board of Directors of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce The volunteer leadership of the Chamber provides the energy

The City of Stockton Planning Commission and the Cultural Heritage Board honored Dan Cort, President and CEO of Cort Companies, with two Awards of Excellence for Cort Tower

and direction for programs and services for our members. Board

located at 1 North Sutter Street and 321 E. Weber Avenue. Both

members serve a vital role in establishing policy and providing

properties were renovated to house the Stockton Collegiate

guidance to committees and staff. To ensure a quality Board, the

International Charter School. The Award of Excellence Program

applicant, or the applicant’s employer must be a Chamber Member in

is an award bestowed on property owners who have made special

good standing and must remain in good standing throughout their

efforts in restoring, rehabilitating or improving existing structures

entire Board term, 2012-2015. Go to www.StocktonChamber.org to

in an effort to exert positive influence on an area and provide

download application or call 547-2770.

incentive to other property owners.

Stockton Symphony’s wildly

The San Joaquin County Fair is off to a new level of marketing and

popular Pops series continues

promotional sophistication. Leading

with Valentine Pops: Steve Lippia

the charge is Kate Post, Executive

in “Simply Sinatra,” on Saturday,

Director of the Stockton Asparagus

February 11, at 6:00 p.m. at the

Festival, who, in addition to her

Atherton Auditorium on the SJDC

current position with the Asparagus

campus. Sinatra fans will enjoy hits

Festival, will also become San

including “Fly Me To the Moon,”

Joaquin County Fair’s Director of Sponsorship Development and

“Luck Be a Lady,” and many more favorites. Purchase tickets

Marketing. Joining her in the new effort is Drew Palmer, Agency

online at www.stocktonsymphony.org or call 209.951.0196. Tickets

Principal of Palmer Advertising, LLC.

begin at $22.

The Stockton Council of the Central Valley Association of

Visionary Home Builders was the recent recipient of a $180,000

REALTORS and the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

grant from Wells Fargo. The Grant recipients were selected from

have announced Becky Mizener as the 2011 ‘Stocktonian of the

requests submitted by local team members and their non-profit

Year’. Becky will be honored at a dinner on Wednesday, February

or local government partners in areas in need of extra help

8th at the Stockton Golf and Country Club. Space is limited. For

with neighborhood- development projects. VHB will utilize the

reservations, please call the Chamber at 547-2770.

funding for the Bounce Back to Homeownership program and a new prepaid Credit Card program.

San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) is excited to announce that Never Boring Design Associates, one of the Central Valley’s largest full-service marketing and creative agencies, is managing its transit advertising program effective January 1, 2012.

NBDA will sell all advertising on RTD’s buses that operate in Stockton and San Joaquin County.

15 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Let us touch you up...

With a new piece of glass!

Elegant Entrances. Storefront and glass sectional doors.

Calendar

February 2012 Highlights 2/2 - Networking Mixer – 5:15 - 7:15 p.m.

@ San Joaquin Delta College

5151 Pacific Ave.

320 LINCOLN CENTER (209) 477-6881 WWW.GJLONGJEWELERS.COM

AUTO • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

Your Number One Full Service Glass Company now has a new location at the north Stockton area.

6860 Pacific Avenue, Suite C Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 477-7624 Locally owned and operated since 1946 272 years of experience combined Experience should make the difference when protecting your family and your life.

2

Networking Mixer – 5:15 - 7:15 p.m. @ San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave.

8

Green Team San Joaquin - 9:00 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

9

Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable - 7:30 a.m. @ TBA

10

Government Relations Council - 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

10

Leadership Stockton, ‘Community Serving Community’ 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Various Local Non-Profits

15

Chamber Executive Committee Meeting – 7 a.m. @ Stockton Golf and Country Club

20

Chamber Offices Closed in Observance of President’s Day

23

Chamber Board Meeting – 4 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

24

Government Relations Council - 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

29

Business Education Alliance - 3:30 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

also don’t miss...

3/1 - Networking Mixer The Reserve at Spanos Park, 6301 West Eight Mile Road, Stockton, 95219

www.StocktonAutoGlass.com

17 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

*

Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info

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