Port O Call - June 2012

PORT CALL GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Vol. 58 No. 2

www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012

DeltaFusion Is Back Business Awards Luncheon 2012

Leadership Stockton Empowering Stockton’s Community PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 461 STOCKTON CA

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PORT CALL

13

Leadership Stockton

CONTENTS From Your President

4

From Your CEO

5

Events

6

Leadership Stockton

7

6

Business Awards Luncheon 2012

Convention & Visitors Bureau 8 Programs and Public Policy Department

10

New Members

11

Cover Story

13

Ribbon Cuttings

15

News Briefs

16

Calendar

17

DeltaFusion Is Back

8

Don’t Miss!

Networking Mixer Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton June 7, 5:00-7:00 p.m.

When asked why my business is a member of the Chamber, the answer was simple. While the Chamber does provide networking opportunities, the reason to be a member involves so much more. Our Chamber is a tireless advocate for business in our community. Without the Chamber, the voice for business would not be heard. If business people through the Chamber do not work together to promote a better business climate, then who will? A strong business environment means not just more profit, but a stronger community and a higher quality of life, which is something that should be of interest to everyone.

Steven D. Crabtree, Financial Vice President of the Chamber Herum Crabtree

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

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. 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

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE GNOME!

SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR Heidi Altamirano

209.547.2764

OPERATIONS/FINANCE DIRECTOR Sandy Dwyer 209.547.2770 MEMBERSHIP SALES Matt Anderson

209.337.2723

SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD. Timm Quinn 209.547.2960 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 RECEPTIONIST/ CUSTOMER SERVICE Mai Vang 209.547.2770

SATURDAY, JUNE 30 – 7:05 PM

Doug Wilhoit Garden Gnome Giveaway Be one first 1,000 to Banner Island Ballpark and get the much talked about and highly sought after, Doug Wilhoit Garden Gnome.

Presented by

Purchase tickets using promo code “Wilhoit” and proceeds will benefit local non-profits

PUBLISHER Stockton Chamber of Commerce 209.547.2770 GRAPHIC DESIGN Never Boring Design Associates 209.526.9136 ADVERTISING Kristin Bowker

209.423.4940

PRINTING Snyder Parks

209.466.9026

MAILING Snyder Parks

209.466.9026

Greater

For Tickets Call 644-1900 GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 445 W. Weber Avenue, Suite 220, Stockton, CA 95203 209.547.2770 fax 209.466.5271 schamber@stocktonchamber.org

From Your President... by: Debbie Armstrong

Hello to all my fellow Chamber members. With my

month, we celebrate Leadership Stockton’s 30th Anniversary.

Twenty-nine years ago, the members of the Greater Stockton

year as Chamber President

Chamber of Commerce led a committee of people to Denver to

coming to a close, I cannot

review a concept in developing community leadership, the result of

express enough how truly

that trip was Leadership Stockton. The idea that we could transform

blessed I am to have had this

communities by developing our own leaders still holds true today.

experience. I have met so

Since its inception, more than 700 participants have graduated

many wonderful people who

from the program and countless organizations benefit from the

care about Stockton and what

Leadership Stockton program. To get involved and become a

our future holds, as well as

Stockton Leader, contact the Chamber today!

so many of you who see the bright future we can attain with hard work and perseverance.

Throughout my journey, with every passing day, I have learned a

Please ALWAYS remember that this is your home and your MONEY should stay here, so shop local. May God truly bless all of you and our great home Stockton!

little more about all of you; there is a lot of work to do and we will get it done, one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. This

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Phil and Jan Tilbury of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms with Frank Middleton, VP Commercial Lender, 209.844.7563 “Oak Valley understands the importance of taking care of their customers and helping them find solutions.

They’re a true partner with a genuine desire to help our businesses grow.� – Phil and Jan Tilbury, owners of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms

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1.866.844.7500 t www.ovcb.com www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012

4

From Your CEO... by: Doug Wilhoit

By the time you receive the June Port

VOTE gave Rutherford B. Hayes the Presidency of the United

O Call you may have already voted by

States; in 1876, ONE VOTE changed France from a Monarchy to

absentee ballot or are preparing to

a Republic; in 1923, ONE VOTE gave Adolph Hitler leadership of

vote in person at your polling place.

the Nazi Party; and in 1960, a ONE VOTE change in each precinct

Congratulations if you have/are

in Illinois would have defeated John F. Kennedy. So if you do not

exercising your right and obligation

think that YOUR VOTE makes a difference, please reconsider and

to vote and did so with the full

vote with purpose, thinking, gratitude and proper and thorough

examination of the candidates and

research as you exercise a right so many TRUE AMERICANS

ballot measures that will be in the

have given their lives to protect, and keep in mind that there are

best interest of all. By that, I mean

so many around the world who do not have the right to vote and

do not just vote with emotion

suffer the consequences for the violation of a basic human right –

or political bias; look deeply into the candidates/ballot measures abilities to really

FREEDOM from oppression!

The weekend of Mother’s Day saw the new Stockton Police Chief and his street crime task force take on the problem head on! He

get the job done, who is

and the men and women who put themselves on the line are to be

backing them and are they

commended and thanked!

backing them for the benefit of the entire population of the city, state or nation or are they just looking out for themselves and their own benefit!

In my March 2012 column, I wrote the following about reducing crime in Stockton: “It must start in the homes, families and neighborhoods to really make it work! It must be known and shouted in neighborhoods across this fine city that those who affiliate with gangs or commit crimes are nothing more than thugs,

Each and every vote

cowards and irresponsible jerks (same as those who know who

counts and it saddens me

commit the crimes and are just as bad for not reporting them to

to see the low percentage

law enforcement) and we will not put up with it anymore.”

of LEGAL voters who turn

I have a true story that illustrates the cowards who are a very

out each election cycle. From my past elected official experience,

small part of our community, but are causing the vast amount of

I’ve seen that some of those who do not vote on a regular basis can

the problems: Over the past several years, my parents have spent

sometimes be the most vocal as to what is going wrong without

time in one of our fine local hospitals and, on several occasions

lifting a finger to help fix the community ills. Again I state: “If you

upon visiting, I have met an employee who knew I served on the

are not part of the solution, then you are part of the problem!”

Youthful Offender Parole Board and, due to her far past gang

Since 1979, I have had in my office the following reminder

affiliations, would tell me of her progress. After my father’s passing,

of the importance of each and every vote: in 1645, ONE VOTE

my mother was in the hospital a few weeks ago and I ran into this

gave Oliver Cromwell control of England; ONE VOTE caused

employee who has now been promoted due to hard work. She has

Charles I of England to be executed; in 1776, ONE VOTE gave

also “been clean” of gangs and raising her family to be law abiding

America the English language instead of German; in 1845, ONE

and responsible. She relayed the following story, in writing to me:

VOTE brought Texas into the Union; in 1868, ONE VOTE saved

On 5-1-12 we made a police report: My two sons (A) 15 years

President Andrew Johnson from impeachment; in 1876, ONE

old & (B) 13 years old and two of their friends

5

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

continued on page 9

Events

by: Heidi Altamarino Business Awards Luncheon 2012 Congratulations to all our Business Award recipients. On June 7, at the Hilton Stockton, we will be recognizing: • Business Person of the Year: Raymond Ross Smith, EZ Network Systems • Small Business Person of the Year: Gary Hansen, G-Force Productions • Business Manager of the Year: George Lerner, Port of Stockton • Business Employee of the Year: David Hurst, Health Plan of San Joaquin • P3 Stewardship Award, Policies Practices Purchasing: Diamond Foods, Inc. • SBA Minority Small Business Champion of the Year: Nate McBride, • NEC Small Business Development Center, San Joaquin Delta College.

These exceptional honorees will be recognized for their

The Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes the following companies for their year round support of the Chamber Taking Care of Business Sponsors 2011-2012 A.G. Spanos Companies Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Builders Exchange of Stockton California Water Service Co. F&M Bank Financial Center Credit Union Grupe Commercial Company Kaiser Permanente Lincoln Center Neumiller & Beardslee Oak Valley Community Bank

Pacific Records Management R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. San Joaquin Delta College St. Joseph’s Medical Center Stockton East Water District Sutter Gould Medical Foundation The Record/San Joaquin Media Group United Way of San Joaquin County University of the Pacific

achievements and contributions to our community. We will also be honoring our yearly Volunteer Hall of Fame award winners

helps fund committees and programs designed to keep

and 25-year Chamber members: Advanced Mini Storage,

Greater Stockton businesses healthy and growing. Committees

Assistance League of Stockton, Carpetland, Ganzer & Williams,

supported include the Manufacturers Industrial Distribution

San Joaquin County Department of Aging, Sierra Veterinary

Roundtable and other business development programs.

Clinic and Stenson’s Engraving & Gifts.

Luncheon tickets are $30 per person by May 30, and $35 each thereafter. For more information, call 209.547.2770.

Business Awards Luncheon 2012 Sponsors Gold Sponsor: Kaiser Permanente

R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. San Joaquin Delta College Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Silver Sponsors: F&M Bank Hilton Stockton

Bronze Sponsor: United Way of San Joaquin County

Sponsors receive recognition at such events as the Industrial Technology Barbecue, State of the City, Annual Golf Tournament, Chamber Tradeshow & Showcase Mixer and Chamber Business Awards. Popular Awards programs such as ATHENA Award are also included, as well as the Annual Installation Dinner.

Advantages Available to Taking Care of Business Supporters

Sponsoring companies typically select several options from the events line up. The Chamber allows its members to wisely choose a yearlong program that meets their marketing,

Taking Care of Business Program 2012-2013

consumer exposure and community involvement goals. Package

The Taking Care of Business Program offers our member

prices enable sponsors to select from several marketing and

businesses a wealth of marketing and sponsorship opportunities

promotional opportunities at a significant savings.

for the upcoming year. This popular program was created to

For more information on stretching your marketing dollars

give Chamber members an excellent way to receive exposure

through Taking Care of Business, call Heidi Altamirano, Events

throughout the year at a dramatic discount off normal pricing.

Director, at 209.547.2764, or e-mail heidi@stocktonchamber.org.

Taking Care of Business Sponsors Help Fund Key Chamber Programs

Taking Care of Business also ties closely to the Chamber’s work in business retention and development activities, and

@

Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764

Annual Installation Dinner 2012 One of the highlights of our year is the Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner. It’s the perfect www.stocktonchamber.org

continued on page 10

JUNE2012

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 Health Care Session Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union

www.GreenTeamSanJoaquin.com Session Sponsor: Health Plan of San Joaquin SMALL BUSINESS Health careH continues to beW a topic impacts each AZARDOUS ASTEthat DISPOSAL * and

Affordable Hazardous Management for Your Business every one of us, and eachWaste year Leadership Stockton takes a look A Program of San Joaquin County Public Works at the challengeswww.SJCrecycle.org and successes in health throughout San (209)care 468-3066 i Low cost way to safely dispose of hazardous materials.

Joaquin County.

(Costs depend on your waste types.)

Leadership Stockton Accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 Class Leadership Stockton, California’s oldest adult community leadership program is accepting applications for the class of 201213. Tuition for the 11-month program is $900. Applications and class schedule can be found at www.leadershipstockton.com or by calling 209.547.2770. Deadline to apply is June 15, 2012.

i Documentation that you Plan properly manage hazardous waste.

The day began at the Health of San Joaquin offices on i Assurance that the material will be disposed of properly. *Conditionally Exempt Small Manthey Road with a panel discussion withQuantity CarolGenerators Farron,(CESQG)

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, prepares the next

of Lodi Memorial Hospital; Mike Ricks, COO of St. Joseph’s

generation of men and women who will assume leadership

Medical Center; Dr. Brad Reinke, Chief of Staff at Dameron We also accept universal and electronic waste.

Hospital; Dr. Moses Elam, Physician in Chief of Kaiser

roles in the greater Stockton community. Established as the

Green Your Bottom Line Permanente; David of San Joaquin General withCulberson, ProductCEO Stewardship!

Economic benefits abound: Hospital; and John Hackworth, CEO of the reduced operating costs, energy savings, reduced disposal costs, the creation of green jobs.

Health Plan of

San Joaquin. The panelists gave a glimpse into each of their

www.CalPSC.org

organizations and then shared their opinions on theToxics state ofit Back!

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

Leadership Stockton, a program founded in 1981 by the

first community leadership program in California, Leadership Stockton has graduated 701 community members, many of whom now serve on local boards, commissions and in other community leadership roles.

Leadership Stockton participants embark on a journey that

health care with the class. The class then asked many questions.

puts them in touch with the greater Stockton community, as

Each panelist was very open and the discussion was very lively

well as each other, and develops their personal leadership skills.

and informative.

Participants are also involved in addressing the needs of our

Following the panel was Dr. Dale Bishop, Medical Director at the Health Plan of San Joaquin. Dr. Bishop explained to the class

community through hands-on service projects that focus on solutions to real community problems.

what Health Plan of San Joaquin does, and how they do it. The

This 11-month community leadership program offers

Health Plan was very generous in allowing the class to use their

participants an opportunity to increase their community

wonderful facilities.

knowledge, civic network and service to the community.

After a great lunch, the class heard from Becky Gould (LS Class of ’89), Deputy Director of San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services. Becky spoke to the class about what Behavioral

Participants are exposed to key issues facing Stockton and the surrounding region.

Selection involves a written application and personal

Services means and all the great work they do to help those in

interview. The selection process will identify approximately 26

the community and make it a better place to live.

applicants to be chosen to attend the program; representing a

The day ended with a tour of San Joaquin General Hospital.

The class split up into two groups and got an all-access tour of the wonderful facility.

A BIG thank you to all the speakers who took the time out of

cross-section of the greater Stockton community.

For information or an application visit www.leadershipstockton.com or call Timm Quinn at 209.547.2960 or email tquinn@stocktonchamber.org.

their busy schedules to come and speak with the class. Thank you to the Health Plan of San Joaquin for hosting the session and to Dan Natividad (LS Class ’09) for all your help in coordinating the day.

7

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

@

Timm Quinn: tquinn@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2960

Convention & Visitors Bureau by: Wes Rhea

A Unique Art and Cultural Event Returns to Victory Park on June 30 DeltaFusion is a community celebration of the natural and cultural diversity of Stockton and the San Joaquin Delta region.

Giant puppets, music and scores of community performers will join in to tell the story of where we are and why we came here.

Join the fun on Saturday, June 30, in Victory Park. Giant puppets come to life in a parade around the park followed by a pageant. More cultural and musical performances will continue throughout the day.

Don’t miss this food, fun and art-filled event. Admission is free. Conceived in 2011 and sponsored by the University of the Pacific in partnership with the Haggin Museum and the Cultural Heritage Council of San Joaquin County, this event is supported in part by grants.

For more information about the community workshops and June 30 event, call Joanna Albala at 209.470.6980 or email jalbala@pacific.edu.

@

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

JUNE2012

8

“Summer 2nd Friday” Downtown Stockton Art Events!

FRIDAY | JUNE 8 | 5-7pm FRIDAY | JULY13 | 5-7pm FRIDAY | AUGUST 10 | 5-7pm

Artists demonstrations and musical/dance performances along the route will connect the host galleries and other venues with a “family festival” atmosphere, including children’s activities, portrait-sketching, chalk art, spoken-word, ceramics, jewelry and much more.

PARTICIPANTS/LOCATIONS

Dan Mello

Marc O’Neil

1016 14th Street, Modesto, CA l wintonireland.com Since 1913 l Lic # 0596517

CEO

Tidewater AT The County Administration Building San Joaquin County Law Library The Mexican Heritage Center The Pride Center Fathers and Families The Downtown Stockton Alliance

Cont’d from pg. 5

were walking through the park when they were approached by

idiotic and cowardly, but so are those who know them but do not

a gang member. The gang member asked the boys if they were

come forward! I will be looking for that car, and when I see it, I

from a gang, but they can’t remember the gang name. Son (A)

will report it to the fine men and women of the Stockton

told him they don’t do that! The gang member walked away and

Police Department.

called someone. A couple of minutes later a car came with three men inside. They hopped out of their car and approached son (A) and one of them asked him if he was “messing with his brother.”

My son told him no, but the guy began hitting on son (A) and another pulled out a knife and warned him not to fight back. One of the other gang members flashed a gun at son (B) and his friends when they were trying to call me. All the gang members ended up jumping my son (A). Then they left. Thank God they stopped. The descriptions of the men were three Hispanics and one White male who was the driver. They were driving a green four door Honda with dents all around, some paint missing to where you could see silver, tinted windows with no rims!”

Someone knows who they are for COWARDS like to brag so I rest my case that not only are the perpetrators sick, despicable, 9

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Programs and Public Policy Department by: Frank Ferral Green Team San Joaquin Member Making Headlines On March 29, VIPs from around California met in Stockton at the San Joaquin County Office of Education to celebrate the completion of their 500-kilowatt photovoltaic carport project.

This is the largest, educational solar photovoltaic installation in

$50,000 in support from Solar City, the contractor, which included five, level II electric vehicle charging stations, the first of their kind in the county.

Local auto dealers brought electric vehicles, including the Nissan Leaf, a Chevrolet Volt and an E-Mega manufactured in

the county and will be used by teachers and students in Venture

Stockton by Electric Vehicles International, one of the industry

Academy’s two newest Career Technical Educational programs:

partners of the Clean Transportation Technologies Academy.

the New Energy Academy and the Clean Transportation Technologies Academy, which open this fall.

Special visitors included the California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Torlakson; Ezra Garrett and Leah Casey,

The project is funded with a Qualified Zone Academy Bond

of PG&E; Mary Spruill, Executive Director of the NEED Project;

(QZAB), which requires an educational component. To meet this

Glen Kizer, of the Foundation for Environmental Education and

requirement, students in two green sector academies will track the

several elected officials and their representatives.

solar production data, perform energy audits, plan and implement

There was even a Tesla Roadster brought to the dedication

energy conservation action plans and become energy ambassadors

ceremony by a local owner. The Tesla owner was kind enough

to the community.

to provide rides to students and teachers, and even gave

The project was supported by a $200,000 gift from PG&E and

EVENTS

Superintendent Torlakson a ride!

Cont’d from pg. 6

opportunity to thank our hard working and dedicated board

No-host cocktails begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:45

members and committee chairs for their exceptional contribution

p.m. Reservations are required and space is limited. Sponsorships

to our organization. On Thursday, June 21, we’ll gather at

are still available. For more information, call Heidi Altamirano at

Stockton Golf & Country Club to thank Debbie Armstrong with

209.547.2764, or e-mail heidi@stocktonchamber.org.

Old Republic Title Company for her outstanding performance as Chamber President from 2011-2012, and to welcome Gary Long with Gary J. Long Jewelers as our 2012-2013 President.

The evening will include an installation ceremony and the presentation of awards.

Annual Installation Dinner 2012 Sponsors Platinum Sponsors: F&M Bank Grupe Commercial Company Kaiser Permanente

Gold Sponsors: Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Financial Center Credit Union Lincoln Center Neumiller & Beardslee San Joaquin Delta College St. Joseph’s Medical Center

@

Stockton East Water District The Record/San Joaquin Media Group United Way of San Joaquin County University of the Pacific

Silver Sponsors: Builders Exchange of Stockton R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

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

www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012 10

New Members Business Machines/Copying Machines, Supplies & Service A – TEC 1220 N. Union Street, Stockton 209.465.5606 www.atecofficesolutions.com

Warehouses Storage & Distribution/Transportation

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.

Photographers/ Photographers Commercial & Aerial/Photographers - Corporate & Special Events Captivating Photos

Tube-Dude 5910 Landview Drive, Stockton 941.650.5826 www.tube-dude.com

4304 Cruden Street, Stockton 209.406.1845 www.captivatingphotos.net

Insurance

Allen Distribution

DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Agency Inc.

4727 Fite Court, Stockton 717.258.7743 www.allendistribution.com

1901 W. Kettleman Lane, Lodi 209.340.5400

Legal Services

www.dibu.com

Fuel Policies/ Non-profit

Almost Free Legal Clinic

Fueling California

343 E. Main Street #702, Stockton 209.323.2614

1017 L Street, #408, Sacramento 916.204.6715 www.fuelingcalifornia.org

Legal Services/ Tax Consultants/ Estate Planning

Lighting Specialists/Planting Equipment/Planting Products

Beattie & Aghazarian, LLP

Homegrown Indoor Garden Supply

3031 W. March Lane #211W, Stockton 209.222.3686 www.legacy-law-group.com

681-A Grider Way, Stockton 209.477.4447 www.bestinhydroponics.com

Physical Therapy/ Occupational Health Pine Street Physical & Occupational Therapy 2357 W. March Lane, Stockton 209.477.9300 www.pinestreetpt.com

11 PORT CALL

Advertising & Marketing

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Dentists Village Dental Care 1710 E. March Lane #2B, Stockton 209.474.1000 www.villagedentalcarestockton.com

www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012 12

COVER STORY

Leadership Stockton Empowering Stockton’s Community

By Justin Souza

Denver in the early days. “The Denver

educational community, all balanced with

of members of the Greater Stockton

Leadership program was more geared to

hands-on sessions where class members

Chamber of Commerce traveled to

grooming people to run for office,” said

get immersed in the daily realities of the

Denver, Colorado to review a creative

Wilhoit. “But early on we identified that

session’s subject. “Participants don’t just

concept in developing community

developing community leaders doesn’t

learn where help is needed, they learn to

leadership. The concept: to empower

necessarily mean grooming elected

identify where their help can do the most

up-and-coming community members

officials. Empowering the community

good for their community,” said Wilhoit.

to make effective, positive changes for

base is more important because it’s the

Making a Difference

Thirty-one years ago, a handful

everyday citizens working to help

their area by providing them an understanding of their region’s challenges, assets and infrastructure.

This concept developed into Leadership Stockton, the first continuous leadership program west of the Rockies and the prototype for many such programs throughout California.

Since its foundation, more than 700

I attribute a lot of my success to the confidence I built and the partnerships I made in Leadership Stockton.

people have graduated from Leadership

-Joelle Gomez

Stockton’s immersive 11-month program

Graduates of the Leadership Stockton program say that the lessons don’t end with the 11 whole-day sessions scheduled once per month from August to June.

Each year’s class also includes a retreat which helps participants to bond and is capped off by a major yearly project to help a local nonprofit. Last year, the graduates pitched in to help the Transitional Learning Center (TLC) accomplish a number of goals,

with a firm foundation from which to

people that make the

including supplying coats to children

make a real and lasting difference in the

biggest difference.”

in need, providing resources to

community. Over the years, the nonprofit

According to Wilhoit,

enable two field trips and giving the

program has expanded into a remarkable

Leadership Stockton was designed to

facility a major facelift by updating the

course that connects community leaders

provide candidates a 360-degree look at

Center’s landscaping. This year’s class

with essential resources and teaches them

the Greater Stockton area. Graduates get

worked to revamp Pixie Woods and

how to set, pursue and achieve their goals.

a wide view of the issues and resources

prepare it for its May 5 opening.

Chamber CEO Doug Wilhoit was

of the community, with informative

According to Joelle Gomez, Executive

one of the program’s founders, and

lectures from experts across a huge

Director of the Women’s Center of San

has remained an instrumental voice in

variety of industries, including elected

Joaquin County, Leadership Stockton

directing Leadership Stockton through

leaders in the government, the CEOs of

was an eye opening experience. “When

the years, including in differentiating

major companies, the Directors of local

I signed up for the 1994-1995 class, I

Stockton’s program from Leadership

nonprofits and essential members of the

thought I already knew Stockton, but it

13 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

ended up being one of the most impactful

meet people who are in those positions

scenes to serve the public. “Being a part

experiences of my life. I still get so much

and faced with those challenges, it gives

of a Leadership program—in any city—is

from those relationships that I made.

you a deeper understanding of the issue

something every citizen should consider.

I attribute a lot of the success of our

and the challenges that service providers

After completing the program, I definitely

agency—and my own success—to the

in Stockton face.”

have more respect for the breadth of

confidence I built and the partnerships I

Spreading Leadership

people involved.”

made in Leadership Stockton.”

Since its first sessions back in

With over 700 graduates so far,

1981, Leadership Stockton’s model of

Leadership Stockton’s alumni list reads like

Stockton, “teaches people in the

fostering community leaders has spread

a who’s who of the Stockton area. “There

community how they can step up and

throughout the State. Many long-running

have been so many people who have taken

become leaders. What we could do in

Leadership programs in major areas

Leadership Stockton to heart,” said Wilhoit.

our own disciplines and how we can get

including Sacramento and Modesto to

“They know that this isn’t just a résumé

involved in others. [The program] helps

Fresno and Bakersfield have patterned

builder, this is meant to help Stockton.

you get out of your comfort zone, meet

their programs after Leadership Stockton.

And they’re all winners in my book.”

Gomez added that Leadership

new people and give something back to

David Diskin, who serves as the

Wilhoit added that Leadership

Steering Committee Co-Chair for

Stockton relies heavily on donations

Leadership Lodi, mentioned that

from past graduates who help sustain the

Stockton helped her, as well. Turner-

Stockton’s program has been an

program. “It’s so important that people

Hardin, who is the Executive Director

inspiration for Lodi. “Having coordinated

know there’s a potential leader in all of

of the Child Abuse Prevention Council,

Leadership Lodi for some time, we looked

us. The way to grow it is to become part

graduated from Leadership Stockton

at Stockton’s program with curiosity and

of Leadership Stockton and not only help

in 2001. “Eleven years later, I still know

admiration,” said Diskin, who graduated

the community, but get out there and

who to call about a particular issue. Those

from Leadership Stockton in 2010. “I

make a difference.”

contacts have remained a great resource

enrolled because I wanted to see how

for me throughout my career, but one of

Leadership Stockton compared to Lodi’s

rowing the boat in the same direction,

the most valuable things I’ve taken from all

program. Although Leadership Lodi

Leadership Stockton can put the paddle

of the sessions is a different perspective.”

has been running successfully for nearly

in your hand.”

the community.”

Lindy Turner-Hardin said Leadership

Leadership Stockton helps participants to build empathy and understanding, said Turner-Hardin. “It’s easy to be critical of

20 years, I know that there’s always opportunity for improvement.”

Diskin said that participation in

“Our community needs more people

For more information or to find out how you can register for a future Leadership Stockton class, call Director

something when you are only looking at it

Leadership Stockton has given him more

Timm Quinn at 209.547.2960 or visit

from a limited perspective, but when you

respect to those who work behind the

leadershipstockton.com www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012 14

Ribbon Cuttings

EZ Network Systems

For additional information go to www.stocktonchamber.org

Beauty Garden Salon

4203 Coronado Avenue, Suite 1

Stockton

Yasoo Yani 1050 Elkhorn Drive

Stockton

Ameriprise Financial Services INC

Carol Clemens Angel’s Caring Helpers

Chester Lum ABC Wallace Funeral Services

Cindy Ward Xango

Dora Luiz EZ Network Systems

Ed Wanket

Ellen Powell Assembly member Cardoza’s Representative

Fernando Ruelas Kaplan College

Gary Ghan Brookfalls Water

Gillian Murphy Small Business Development Center at SJ Delta College

Glenn Jose H.O.P.E

WorkNet

6385 Pacific Avenue

Gloria Blaine Basket Caravan & Gourmet Gifts

Gregory Walther Press F1 Computer Services

Jennifer Lewis Hilton Stockton

John Paval Kansas City Life

Marilyn Mason RHA

Mark McDonald Legal Shield

May 3, Pacific Records Management

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Stockton

Grupe Commercial Company, CSU Stanislaus and Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences

Michelle Sherlock Optimal Hospice Care

Melanie Speer Costco

Nick Harbut Eco Chic Salon

Ojesa Asejo-Clark Rabobank

Patti Gulick New Image Signs

Phyllis Klein Klein Insurance

Reggie Martinez UEI College

Networking Mixer

15 PORT CALL

Stockton

610 E Magnolia Street

Attending Ambassadors Blair Hake

Blood Source

4103 East Morada Lane

Stockton

Rick & Cherie Pruitt RP Painting Specialists

Sam Ward Xango

Shannon Ding Assembly Member Berryhills Representative

Tim Aragon Quick Connect Wireless

Vince Rosato New Image Signs

Zach Sharkey Stockton Ports

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.

The Courtyard by Marriott – Stockton is Proud to Announce

Fine Feathered Friends is on Display at The Haggin Museum

That it has Been Named “Hotel of the Year” by Marriott

through June 17. Using photographs, artifacts, bird specimens,

International, Inc. The hotel beat out 846 Courtyards throughout

artwork and interactive elements, the exhibition tells the story

North and South America. The hotel’s exceptional service,

of how man’s relationship with the many birds of the Delta

combined with a fresh new look, vibrant lobby, value-added

has evolved through the decades. Call 209.940.6300 or visit

amenities and expansive guestroom suites allowed the hotel to

hagginmuseum.org.

gain its top standing within the brand and shed a bright light on the community of Stockton. For additional information visit www.marriott.com.

Lorikeets! is a Seasonal, Interactive Experience Featuring Over 45 Colorful Lorikeets Representing Several Different Species.

Through September, Micke Grove Zoo guests will have the

Valley Temporary Services, Located at 1150 W. Robinhood Dr.

opportunity to feed the lorikeets a special “nectar” that meets their

Stockton, Celebrates 25 Years Serving Our Community. They are

nutritional needs while enabling use of their unique brush-like

here to assist clients in finding the right person for their personnel

tongue. We hope you can join us to welcome Lorikeets! to Micke

needs and helping those looking for jobs find one. Valley Temps

Grove Zoo, where you can participate in the feeding experience

will continue to be committed to quality service and hopes to be

and get an up-close look at these fascinating, and beautiful,

of service for another great 25 years. Visit www.valleytemps.net

parrots. For more information call the Micke Grove Zoo Office at

for more information.

209.331.2010.

We Buy Gold & Old Jewelry Bring in broken, damaged, unused or unwanted jewelry and get top dollar!

Construction LEED paperwork Waste Disposal Recycling Services

- Local business for over 25 years - We buy gold year round - No waiting to get paid by mail

GOLD IS AT AN ALL TIME HIGH! – NEARLY $1,400 AN OUNCE

WE PAY CASH!

Don’t risk being paid by out of town checks that might bounce

Same day service

Gary J. Long 1145 W. Charter Way Stockton, CA 95206 209.466.5192

J E W E L E R S

your jeweler for life’s celebrations

320 lincoln center, stockton 477-6881 gjlongjewelers.com

www.stocktonchamber.org

JUNE2012 16

Calendar

June 2012 Highlights 6/7 - Networking Mixer – 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

@ Business Tradeshow @ Hilton Stockton

2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton

7

New Member Meeting – 10:00 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

7

Business Awards Luncheon – 11:30 a.m. @ Hilton Stockton

8

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

13

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

14

Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable 7:30 a.m. @ TBD

14

Leadership Stockton Closing Session – 8:00 - 11:30 a.m. @ Stockton Chamber Conference Room

14

Leadership Stockton Graduation – 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. @ Hilton Stockton

20

Chamber Executive Meeting – 7:30 a.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club

21

Installation Dinner – 6:00 p.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club

22

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

27

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

6.30.12

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17 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

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7/5 - Networking Mixer @ St. Theresa’s Comprehensive Cancer Center 4722 Quail Lakes Drive, Suite B, Stockton

Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info