Gala

2022 BOARD INSTALLATION AND AWARDS

Pictured: Past Chamber award winners Photos by Jim Dorsey Commercial Photography, Megan Plock & Focal Instincts

This time last year, many of us were more than happy to see the back of 2020. As it turns out, the past 12 months brought with it its own set of challenges as we continued to adapt to a world where COVID-19 remains at the forefront of our lives and decision making.

Under the leadership of 2021 Board Chair Kim Mabon, the Corona Chamber placed added emphasis this past year on advocating on behalf of its members, as well as providing plentiful opportunities for members to learn, grow and adapt during this testing time.

The challenges present in 2021 didn’t stop us from organizing some monster in-person events, such as our biggest Golf Classic yet in May, the 10th Annual Riverside County Women’s Leadership Conference, and some sellout Good Morning, Corona events, including the Salute to the Military, Congressional Update with Rep. Ken Calvert, and the State of the City and County addresses.

We also had the pleasure of hosting various other business and community events, including the Corona Fast Pitch competition for Innovation Month, the Economic Forecast with Dr. Chris Thornberg, a 20th anniversary tribute to 9/11, and a multitude of mixers, webinars and grand openings—not to mention our weekly Business Briefings that so many of our members rely on for timely, valuable information.

There were so many people we could have honored at this year’s Installation & Awards Gala, but we managed to whittle it down to the honorees named across the following eight pages. These organizations and individuals were chosen by the Corona business community for their outstanding contribution to the region, whether it’s through their philanthropic activities or notable business prowess.

So, take a moment to get to know our award winners and discover why they are so deserving of our praises!

As we reflect on 2021, the Chamber staff would like to thank Kim Mabon, owner of Creative By Design, for her dedication and leadership during her tenure as Board Chair. Under her motto of Creating Vision, she led us boldly through these uncertain times, and was an ever-present feature at Good Morning, Corona, where she regularly shared vital business updates, as well as the many grand opening ceremonies the Chamber helps facilitate. Cheers to Kim, and we look forward to working closely with 2022 Board Chair Palbinder Badesha, Owner of Express Employment Professionals, Riverside-Corona.

Concluding a Year of Creating Vision

At the beginning of this year, and the start of “creating vision”, I addressed the many challenges that we were facing as business owners in a post-COVID year. While I am thrilled that we have gotten back to in-person meetings and being able to go to entertainment venues, things are just not the same as they were.

Approaching this year, we had to think differently and “smash the box” instead of thinking outside of it. I am pleased to say that I saw many people doing just that. Finding new ways to communicate and interact with others, coming up with fresh ideas and new solutions and some good ole innovation.

As March came around and things began to open fully, my calendar began to fill up with meetings, speaking engagements and ribbon cutting ceremonies. I’ve always loved being part of a business opening their doors for the first time. Hearing their story of why they started the business, and bearing witness to the birth of a new idea or a new approach to an old one. Watching their friends and family gather at the ceremony to cheer them on for the new adventure always makes me smile.

It wasn’t just the members that had to innovate. We as a Chamber had to as well. The Board of Directors came together to strategize ways to continue to support the struggling businesses while finding new ways to bring benefits to the masses.

The biggest change this year was the introduction of the cannabis industry to the City of Corona. With the city’s decision to allow a limited number of licenses to cannabis businesses, a multitude of new members from the industry started flocking to our Chamber. They brought us a new perspective on the industry and educated us on their processes and regulatory matters. Our staff and some of our board did tours at several of their facilities. They were some of the most impressive operations I have seen in a long while.

This influx of a new industry challenged us to find ways to foster growth. We utilized our partnerships with several elected officials, and we started holding exclusive meetings for specific industries.

We started with the manufacturing industry and invited our members in that arena to attend a private lunch with Congressman Ken Calvert. They were able to get their pertinent questions answered and address some of their biggest challenges with the congressman directly.

Our second industry-exclusive meeting was held for the cannabis industry where we brought in Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin. He shared about the current challenges his office faces when it comes to the fight against illegal drug operations and how the DA’s office can support the legal shops. After the meeting concluded, several attendees approached me and the Chamber staff to thank us, saying that no other chamber is offering what we offer.

The Corona Chamber is a partner to all businesses. Whatever challenges you are facing, we are here to help you address those. While we may not be able to solve every problem, we can certainly point you in the right direction or connect you with someone who can. I look forward to many more of these industry specific meetings in the coming years and helping each other grow together as Palbinder Badesha takes over as your Board Chair for 2022.

Businesses of the Year/Awards of Excellence

Distribution VEG-FRESH FARMS

Veg-Fresh Farms is a Corona-based, family-owned business that has been distributing fresh vegetables across the US to national fast food restaurant chains and retail supermarkets for over 30 years.

The company, run by Partners Mark Widder, Dino Cancellieri Jr., Randy Cancellieri and Adam Cancellieri, employs 650 people in Corona and has satellite offices in La Quinta, California and Nogales, Arizona.

Mark Widder told us, “Being presented with this award by the Chamber of Commerce (this year in particular) means quite a lot. It allows us the opportunity to express our deep gratitude to the Corona community and all the support we have received in helping us grow our business.”

Veg-Fresh Farms is a local leader in pioneering energy saving techniques. With over 4,337 solar panels on the roof of its Rincon Street facility, Veg-Fresh reduced its daily dependency on electricity by 50%.

Over half of Veg-Fresh Farms fleet is powered by clean burning natural gas, and the company donates over 40,000 lbs of fresh produce to local charities each month!

Financial Institution ALTURA CREDIT UNION

Founded in 1957, Altura Credit Union is this county’s largest credit union, with over 150,000 members. It serves anyone who lives, works, attends school, or worships in Riverside County, San Diego County, the Orange County cities of Anaheim, Garden Grove, Irvine, and Santa Ana, as well as the San Bernardino County cities of Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and Fontana.

Altura Credit Union is committed to its altruistic efforts in the Inland Empire and has donated over $4,700,000 to local organizations since 2015. It’s no surprise then that Altura has a strong relationship with the Corona Chamber, which continued in earnest in 2021.

Altura was a regular sponsor and exhibitor at Corona Chamber events over the course of the year. This culminated in the sponsorship of the Chamber’s Salute to the Military—the 5th time Altura has sponsored this event.

Speaking about the Salute to the Military event, Altura Credit Union CEO Jennifer Binkley said, “The Chamber does an amazing job, and it’s such a wonderful day to give thanks and appreciation to those who have served and their families.”

Healthcare B&B OPTOMETRY

Dr. Seth Bernstein & Dr. Lisa Benham have been serving Corona residents at B & B Optometry since 1991. “We pretty much joined the chamber right after we got started,” recalled Dr. Benham. “We chose Corona for our first optometry practice as we realized what an amazing town it was. Since opening, we have been very fortunate, and the business has grown every year.”

Dr. Benham cites the high level of professional service as the main reason for their success. “Our main source of new patients is patient referrals,” she explained. “What also helps is that we’re open seven days a week as well as a couple of late nights. A lot of people commute in Corona, so we wanted to offer people the chance to schedule appointments without having to take time off work or school.”

Dr. Benham sees this accolade as a testament to the hard work put in by the team at B & B Optometry: “It’s quite the honor! It shows that we are recognized for giving Corona a business that truly cares about the community and the people.”

Manufacturing SIZEWISE MANUFACTURING

Sizewise Manufacturing represents a coming together of three trusted names in manufacturing: American National (Corona, CA), originally founded by Craig Miller Sr., Sunflower Medical (Ellis, KS), and Wheelchairs of Kansas (Hays, KS). The three companies combined in 2019, bringing together

decades of expertise in building medical and consumer sleep surfaces.

American National, has been here in Corona for over 30 years and they still maintain its family manufacturing business roots. Craig Miller Jr. leads the company while Chad Miller and his father work together on designing and manufacturing the latest and greatest in Medical Products and Sleep Systems.

Chad said, “We are honored to be recognized by the Chamber and are proud to be based here in the City of Corona. The Corona Chamber has been a huge asset to us. Key areas that are extremely valuable to us are the legislative outreach and support, being a voice in the City, County and State, being a resource for our business needs and helping us stay connected to the community.”

Sizewise Manufacturing provides top-quality products at competitive prices with minimal lead times. It works hard to establish and maintain environmentally conscious manufacturing practices. And every day, Sizewise Manufacturing combines technology and innovation to help companies find success.

Non-Profit JUSTSERVE

JustServe volunteers in the Corona/ Norco area have made a significant difference in our community this past year through partnership with a variety of local nonprofits and local organizations. Volunteers are made up of individuals, families, and groups including members from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, missionaries assigned to serve in the Corona/Norco area from around the world, as well as youth groups, families and individuals from the community.

Volunteers from JustServe played a big role leading up to, during, and after the Riverside County Women’s Leadership Conference, helping the Chamber carry out a smooth set up and ensuring the day ran to plan.

Other services recently provided by JustServe include volunteering at food distribution drive-thrus throughout the pandemic with For the People Task Force and Manna House; collecting Run2Rescue donations to help victims of human trafficking; participating in Corona and Norco City cleanups; and much, much more.

Donnette Wheat, Regional Coordinator of the JustServe program, said, “This is such an amazing honor for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and all of the fantastic JustServe volunteers that make a difference in our community through their service. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints leadership on behalf of all the JustServe volunteers accepts this award with our deepest gratitude.”

Retail CORONA ROSE FLOWERS, INC.

In 1986, Ken and Sandi Staudinger purchased Robson’s Florist at 718 N Main St. before rebranding it Corona Rose under 18 months later. The name change came about after Ken’s work colleagues at his maintenance job heard he had purchased a flower shop and gave him the nickname “The Corona Rose”.

Ken and Sandi’s daughter Wendy, and her husband Terry Tebbetts, came to work at the store in 1996. In 2016 when the Staudingers retired, Wendy and Terry took over as owners.

Over the years the shop has grown by leaps and bounds, now employing 16 people including five full-time designers—some of whom have been with the store since its inception all those years ago.

Terry told the Chamber, “This award is incredibly meaningful and important to us because it gives us another level of validation. The community that has always supported us, that we love and have always strived to serve honestly and genuinely, is acknowledging our sincere hard work, dedication to the Corona-Norco areas and our staff’s commitment to every customer that blesses us with their business. A big thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for not only recognizing us but bestowing us with this prestigious award.” Co-Owners of Allegra Marketing Print Mail / Image 360 Corona, have deep roots in this community going back to their school days, with both graduating Corona High in 1973. Their family record of community service includes: Jaycees, Corona Rotary, United Way, Soroptimist International of Corona, Boy Scouts, Chamber of Commerce, Corona Library Foundation and more.

Eugene expanded his commitment to the community in 1994 when he was appointed to Planning Commission, then again in 2002 when he was elected to Corona City Council, and served as Mayor in 2007, 2012 and 2015, completing the end of his fourth term in December 2018.

As small business owners, Eugene and Paula have always appreciated the value of living and working in the same town, and enjoyed a social life centered around family, business and community.

Whether you know Eugene and Paula as Allegra Marketing Print Mail, Image 360 Corona or Zap Printing, Inc., nothing much has changed! Along with their dedicated, talented staff, they are pleased to serve the printing, marketing and signage needs of the Inland Empire’s business community.

Paula said, “This recognition by the Corona Chamber is gratifying, and it feels good to be recognized, though many in our community are equally or more deserving!”

Start-Up VEGAN DEPOT

Billed as Southern California’s first 100% vegan farmer’s market, the Vegan Depot is organized by Christina Bohannon, owner of Organic Junkie—Corona’s first 100% dedicated vegan eatery.

The now-weekly fully vegan farmers market takes place on Saturdays at City Park in Corona, just opposite the Chamber offices. Between 50 and 70 vendors fill the park each week, offering a wide range of meat- and dairyfree food, cruelty-free gifts, yoga and family activities.

Every week, people come from all across Southern California to sample a variety of tasty dishes. In fact, Corona’s Vegan Depot has become so popular, it’s being rolled out in different cities.

Since launching the Corona event, Bohannon has gone on to organize similar regular events in DTLA, Riverside, Huntington Beach and San Diego, with Redlands and Santa Monica in the planning stages.

The Vegan Depot is a big hit with the staff here at the Chamber. Bobby Spiegel, Chamber CEO/President, said: “The event is a great chance to sample lots of tasty food—even as a non-vegan, I am amazed at what there is to offer. I recommend the fried “chicken” sandwich which is delicious.”

Sustainability GOLD’N WEST SURPLUS, INC.

Gold’n West Surplus has been providing electronic recycling services throughout the US, Canada and Mexico since 1994. The company’s HQ is right here in Corona, California, with satellite operations in Atlanta, GA and partners with several electronic recyclers in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Hawaii.

Mark Pickering is the founder and CEO of Gold’n West Surplus Inc. From a very early age, Mark has had a passion for recycling. With 55 years of experience in recycling, Mark consults many organizations on best practices for the handling and recycling of electronic waste and is recognized as a prominent leader in the electronic recycling industry.

“There is no greater feeling than to be recognized for your work. It is truly an honor and much appreciated,” Pickering said. “The Chamber being comprised mainly of business leaders makes receiving recognition even more special.”

The Don Garling Lifetime Achievement Awards

LIZ CAHN-CASTRUITA

Liz Cahn-Castruita recently retired as president and CEO of WestCoast Media. She was the visionary force behind WestCoast Magazine for over 30 years. A driven businesswoman and native to the Inland Empire since 1986, Liz moved to the area when she was a shopping center marketing consultant to developers throughout the country. After a serious illness, she wanted to do something closer to home that would make a difference and give her more time with her family.

As the CEO of WestCoast Media, she made it a priority above all else to give back to the communities she serves. To date, the magazines she started has featured over 10,000 businesses and more than 2,000 non-profits.

Accolades and honors are numerous—from being named as a Woman to Watch, to receiving numerous Small Business of the year awards, and Person of the Year from three different cities, Liz is an amazing individual. As a business owner, she mentored young entrepreneurs on topics from business development to personal encouragement. Her positive attitude and faith-driven spirit brought many rewards, from starting her own company, turning her idea and dreams into reality.

Liz also believes in giving back, serving on numerous non-profit organizations including the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association. One of her favorite local charities is the Let It Be Foundation. She started the Chino Valley 100+ Women Who Care Chapter which has donated thousands of dollars to local charities.

Liz lives in Chino with her husband Lawrence Castruita and enjoys visits from her two grown children, Branden, and Briana Cahn. “My kids played a huge role in shaping me as a leader, businesswoman and entrepreneur. I was a single working mom and it was important to me to be able to be a good example to them, support them well and to be present for them. A true balancing act for most women”.

Liz will receive the coveted Don Garling Lifetime Achievement Award at the Corona Chamber’s annual installation and awards banquet. She exemplifies the meaning behind the award. “Working with Don Garling, when he was Chairman of the Board, I recall how special he was in serving the business community. I am deeply honored to be presented this award recognition in memory of a great human being, who gave selflessly to others.”

STAN GRUBE

A lifetime of service in the healthcare arena has provided Stanley M. Grube (Stan) the opportunity to “do his thing”! Stan has been an icon in the greater Corona area with impact in California and Washington, D.C. Known as ‘Mr. Positive’, Stan roamed the halls of Corona Community Hospital (which was later purchased and became Corona Regional Medical Center), where he prided himself as the CEO of our local hospital, and knowing the names of his employees, their family members including children and grandchildren.

Stan has over forty years of experience as a CEO of Acute Care hospitals and the parent corporation. Obtaining a master’s degree from The George Washington University, and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Washington Adventist University, Stan utilized his education, connections and persona to accomplish many advancements in our region!

On a local level, Stan was instrumental in the creation and development of many non-profit organizations. Often with a team of fellow business folks, the Corona-Norco Family YMCA, Peppermint Ridge and Chair of United Way are just a sampling of his philanthropic portfolio. He served on the Corona Airport Advisory Committee, the CNUSD’s Year-Round Education Task Force, Riverside County’s Emergency Medical Care Committee (1985 to current), Medically Indigent Task Force (1986-1990), and the First 5 Commission (2010 – 2014).

Serving the Corona Chamber as the top volunteer (then it was called president, today’s terminology is Chairman of the Board), Stan worked with the business community to ensure great development would transpire in Corona. He boasts about opening Eagle Glen Golf Club during his year as president, even without a final certificate of occupancy—he found ways to make things happen, hiring professionals to stand fire-watch and other things.

His company Morris, Marion Associates, Inc. was named after his father (Morris) and his fatherin-law (Marion). We often joked when a solicitor called asking to speak to Mr. Morris or Mr. Marion, Stan would graciously take the call, then educate the person, to be honest, and ask for the person in charge. Married in 1958 to the love of his life, Betty, they have two sons (Greg and Doug). Betty passed in March 2020. Today, Stan enjoys spending time with his sons, their wives, seven granddaughters and nine great-grandchildren. To Stan, family and friends are everything. He truly exemplifies the spirit of this lifetime achievement award…named in honor and memory of another prior Chairman of the Board for the Corona Chamber, Mr. Don Garling.

C.C. VEST

C.C. Vest found herself in a male dominated industry. A woman of action, determination and focus, C.C. knew that if she provided good service, fair pricing, and consistent customer attention – she would achieve a breakthrough in the bearing industry.

C.C. began her career in the Bearing and Power Transmission Industry in 1979. Midpoint Bearing was established in 1985, where she served as President and was co-owner along with her husband, Dan. C.C. became the face and name of Midpoint Bearing, a company that services large machinery throughout the US. In the early stages of her career, she found many of her clients somewhat reluctant to deal with a female. Her persistence combined with her knowledge of products and services available, soon brought down those barriers. Over the years, it became apparent that C.C. was the expert, as customers were requesting only to talk with her on issues or questions about their equipment.

Over the years, C.C. has been recognized by many organizations. She is a two-time Spirit Award finalist and was the National Association of Women Business Owner of the Year, representing the Inland Empire. C.C.’s company was recognized as a leading top Hispanic company as well as the winner for the Inland Empire’s national Association of the Latina Business Women’s Association “Business Woman of the Year.” She has been honored for her community involvement and received the Corona-Norco Family YMCA’s Ira D. Calvert award. C.C. has also received many sales and trade industry awards. Most recently, she was awarded the Wendy B. MacDonald award for recognition of being a trailblazing woman in the power transmission/motion control industry and a major contributor to her company’s success in the industry. She is the first Latina and actual business owner to have received that award.

C.C. has shared her inspirational message to numerous groups including a featured speaker at the Riverside County Women’s Leadership Conference. C.C. and Dan have a large, blended family, with three children—Christa, Philip and Nina—nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one more on the way!

Learning of this award, and its namesake, C.C. stated, “I am overjoyed by receiving this recognition and knowing Don’s (Garling) name is part of the recognition gives it even more meaning and will be very precious.”

Rising Star Award

ELIJAH STACY

Elijah J. Stacy is a 20-year-old Author, Entrepreneur, Public Speaker, and a deep thinker. With ambitious goals to change the world, he founded the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Destroy Duchenne. He is determined to advance gene editing and gene therapy to save his life, his brother’s life, and the lives of thousands of people around the globe who have been diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Elijah suffers from Duchenne and has resolved to use his situation to put an end to it.

In 2017, at the age of 15, he started a GoFundMe to get his non-profit launched. On day one he raised $600, and in the first week, he raised $1,000. He then used this money to pay for the legal paperwork to make Destroy Duchenne a registered tax-exempt nonprofit organization.

Elijah is very passionate about helping others and spends a good deal of time trying to do so through his book, speeches, and content. He is an avid reader who enjoys reading about philosophy, theology, psychology, biology, investing, economics, government, history, biographies, business, and other books. He enjoys having abstract, academic conversations and takes pleasure in being challenged intellectually.

Faith is a big part of Elijah’s life. He regularly goes to church and hosts Bible studies in his backyard every Monday night. He regards the Bible as the most influential and important book of all time. It’s because of Elijah’s faith that he finds purpose in his suffering.

Elijah enjoys watching football and basketball games and is a big LA Clippers fan. He loves to spend time with his family, going to the beach and being outside in nature.

In October 2021, Elijah released his first book, A Small If. In A Small If, Elijah shares 13 lessons he’s learned throughout his life’s journey of losing his ability to walk, getting bullied in school, losing his brother Max to Duchenne, and learning that his other brother has the same disease.

The book is available from the Chamber’s webstore at MyChamber.org.

Chairman’s Award

By Kim Mabon

CORONA CHAMBER STAFF

The past year and a half have been unusual to say the least. When it came time to choose who would receive the Chairman’s award this year, I began to think differently. A few names began to cross my mind, until I was asked who made the most impact on my year as chairman. Hands down, the biggest impact on my year was the Chamber Staff.

While Bobby deserves awards for all his efforts, his staff made such an impact on my term. With every challenge that was presented to them, they rose to the occasion, and came up with innovative solutions.

They all did such outstanding work this year that I decided to give the Chairman’s Award to ALL of them. Deserie Ramirez, Vice President of Operations; Stephanie Shapiro, Vice President of Communications and Events; Robert Yanez, Membership Development Coordinator; Trisha Yontz, Member Services Representative; Andrew Cream, Communication Specialist; Anthony Maldonado, Programs Director; Betty Sherin, Member Services Representative and even the newest additions, Tammy Harwick, Marketing & Sponsorship Specialist and Jenna Sanchez, Member Engagement Representative.

They all made significant

Making A Difference Award

DOMINICK VERRETTE

Dominick Verrette is the Executive Director of a nonprofit called The Leela Project, an organization that focuses on empowering underrepresented youth from underserved communities throughout Southern California.

The Leela Project’s goal to minimize the opportunity gap amongst children from low-income areas has made a tremendous impact within the community. Their literacy program is in five elementary schools in LAUSD and in one school in the Rialto Unified School District. They have also championed equity in communities of color throughout California.

In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, The Leela Project went on a 26-stop Food Tour feeding over 100,000 families in 100 days. On top of providing food for families in need, Dominick and his team awarded scholarships to several disadvantaged young men from the Inland Empire, donated tablets to group homes from throughout the area, and built a home in Mexico for a survivor of domestic violence.

Dominick has been dedicated to making a difference in the foster care community for over 15 years. During that time, he has mentored over 50 at risk youth teens and has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate since 2009. Dominick’s time spent in the system as a child helps him understand the importance of helping young men find their way.

Dominick is also the owner of one of the most innovative Branding and Marketing agencies in the country. His company, “Public House Creatives” has worked with some of the biggest athletes, art-

ists, and businesses in the country.

When Dominick isn’t on the set of a photo shoot or organizing community events throughout Southern California he serving as the Vice Chair on the Corona Parks and Recreation Commission.

He attended Centennial High School in Corona and lettered in Baseball and Football. He later studied Criminal Justice at Riverside College and was the editor of the school newspaper.

Citizens of the Year Award

Kerry and Glen Fletcher, along with their family business, Pete’s Road Service, have been integral to our Corona community for over 30 years. Glen has worked at Pete’s since it was incorporated in 1969 by his parents Pete & Clara Fletcher. He was still in high school when he started, not old enough to drive, so his mom had to drive him on service calls. The business was located in Anaheim on an old gas station property, with a 16-foot camping trailer serving as the office.

Glen and Kerry met at high school in leadership class. After several dates, Kerry was introduced to the family business. Together, they worked 60 to 70 hours a week doing what it takes to grow the business. Glen served on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Tire Dealers Association. As President of the association, Glen chaired a convention with 10,000 attendees.

Early in their marriage, they saved up enough money to buy an 800 square foot house in Fullerton. Four years later, with the expected expansion of the business to the Inland Empire, they moved to Norco where their children, Amanda and Melissa were born.

Glen started his community service journey when Kerry volunteered him to coach the girls’ AYSO soccer team where they did almost everything in the region, from setting up fields to serving as board members. Kerry was treasurer for several years while Glen served as Coach Director for eight years, training over 1,000 coaches. Glen and Kerry both were certified coaches & referees.

In 1986, the Fletcher’s moved to Corona. Five years later their son, Nathan, was born. Kerry quit working for the family business to take care of the kids. The girls wanted to play competitive soccer so in 1992 they founded the Corona United Soccer Club where Glen served as President for 12 years. Kerry was on the board as the treasurer or registrar while being the rep through the Corona Youth Sports Committee. Kerry was on the board of the Coast Soccer Gaming League which scheduled the games for all the teams in the Inland Empire. The three kids played competitive soccer with Glen and Kerry as their coach and manager until they each graduated high school.

Things slowed down until Glen joined Corona Rotary in 2005. He chaired their largest fundraiser, Lobsterfest, in 2011 & served as President in the 2011/12 year. Glen has been the Site Coordinator for eight years and Kerry has been the Table Service Coordinator since 2012.

Glen and Kerry were co-recipients of the 2017 YMCA Ira D. Calvert Community Volunteers award in 2017. They served on the Y board as 2nd Vice President and President 2019-2020. In 2019, Glen received the Riverside/ Corona American Diabetes Father of the Year. The Father of the Year awards ceremony is held in 30 cities across America; the award recognizes men for their community involvement.

Pete’s Road Service continues to maintain the family business status. Pete’s has expanded to 10 locations in six counties within Southern California; They operate 40 service trucks, 10 delivery trucks with 130 dedicated employees. All their locations provide tires, brakes and alignment services. The Corona location also includes the main warehouse, manufacturing retread plant and tire recycling. Many local businesses are fortunate to be vendors to this thriving, growing enterprise, now operated, and managed by the third generation of Fletchers.

Before their retirements, Kerry worked in accounting at the company, and Glen worked in Operations/Facilities and oversaw the construction and start-up of their Retread Plant, which has contributed hugely to company growth. Their strength as a couple is their ability to support each other in any endeavor: business, family, or community. Whether the name on the committee list is Glen or Kerry, they are a dynamic duo—Kerry keeps in charge of details, organization and documentation and Glen handles the execution and operation of any activity or event. Their powerful and effective management style has evolved over 45 years of marriage, raising a family, and working together in a family business.

This extensive list of philanthropic and business-related endeavors shows that Glen and Kerry Fletcher are well-deserving winners of the Citizens of the Year award. Congratulations to this worthy, special husband and wife team!

Meet the New Faces on the 2022 Corona Chamber Board of Directors

The Corona Chamber is incredibly fortunate to have a strong, diverse and dedicated Board of Directors, made up of respected names from across the local business community. This year we welcome the following names to the Chamber Board: Kathy Armstrong (Do It American MFG Company, LLC), David Brambila (Creative Marketing), Dr. Tim Gramling (California Baptist University), Dr. Prabh Grewal (Corona Oral Surgery & Implant Center), Jeff Miller (Jeff Miller Insurance Agency), Mark Widder (Veg Fresh Farms) and Corry Shedd (Liaison for NAVSEA, Corona Division).

Kathy Arm-

strong is Co-Owner of Do It American Manufacturing Company, LLC, a manufacturing company serving mainly public utilities, with the passion for creating meaningful jobs and improving U.S. manufacturing. Kathy was nominated 2020 Businesswoman of the Year by NAWBO Inland Empire and was a speaker at the 2021 Women’s Leadership Conference.

David Brambila

is a 30-year Corona resident and President of Creative Marketing, a local marketing company that helps organizations tell their stories through print and promotional items. He is also a real estate broker for Brambila Properties. David served honorably in the Marine Corps from 19932001 and graduated Cal Poly Pomona School of Business in 2003.

Tim Gramling, LP.D., FACHE, brings extensive experience in business, higher education, and ministry to his post as Dean, Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business at California Baptist University. He holds a Doctor of Law and Policy degree, a Master of Science in Computer Science and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.

Board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon

Dr. Prabh Gre-

wal is a University of Pacific School of Dentistry graduate where he earned his doctorate in dental surgery. The highlight of his 13-year active duty career was serving as faculty and attending surgeon at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (“The President’s Hospital”).

Jeff Miller has been a licensed insurance agent and broker for 36 years. In 1995 through 2000, Jeff served as a Commissioner for the Corona Parks Commission. In 2000, he was elected to the Corona City Council and he served as Mayor in 2004 & 2008. He has served as chairman of the Riverside County Republican Party and in 2008 he was elected to the California State Assembly.

Corry J. Shedd

serves as Chief of Staff for Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division, where he supports the Commander and Technical Director. Prior to joining Corona Division as a civilian, he served for 30 years as an active duty and reserve Navy Surface Warfare Officer, retiring in 2018 at the rank of Captain (O6).

Mark Widder is one of four general partners of Veg-Fresh Farms in Corona, CA. The family’s agricultural distribution company supplies fresh produce to supermarkets and fast casual restaurant concepts throughout the United States and Canada. The family employs 650 people at their state-of-the-art Corona distribution facility.

2022 Corona Chamber of Commerce Board

Board Chair

Palbinder Badesha Express Employment Professionals

Chairman of Finance

Chad Miller Sizewise Manufacturing

Immediate Past Chair

Kim Mabon Creative By Design

Vice Chair

Dr. Anthony Pirritano Integrated Medical Center of Corona

Patrick Akes Grimes-Akes Family Funeral Home Kathy Armstrong Do It American MFG Company, LLC David Brambila Creative Marketing Marta Cortez Eduardo’s Mexican Restaurant Jim Gore Vulcan Materials Company Dr. Tim Gramling California Baptist University Dr. Monica Green Norco College Dr. Prabh Grewal Corona Oral Surgery Ruth Jaffe Kaiser Permanente

Vice Chair of Finance

Dr. Sam Buenrostro Corona-Norco Unified School District

President/CEO

Bobby Spiegel, Corona Chamber of Commerce

Barry E. Knight BEK Impact Group Crystal Lopez Carter Bradley Insurance Jeff Miller Jeff Miller Insurance Agency Eugene Montanez Allegra Marketing - Print - Mail / Image 360 Linda Pearson Corona Regional Medical Center Lea Petersen Southern California Gas Company Lily Quiroa Waste Management Mike Quraishi Aladdin Cleaning Services, Inc. Dean Seif CARSTAR Allstar Collision Anne St.Germain Level Advisors Janet Steiner MakeDust John Weyhgandt Western States Financial Mark Widder Veg-Fresh Farms Corry Shedd Liaison for NAVSEA, Corona Division

Retiring Board Members Angie Byars, 3M Corona Casey Currie, Currie Enterprises Anthony Edwards, ACM Commercial Services Mark Peabody, Peabody Engineering & Supply Mike Ryan, Ryan & Associates Financial Services Don Williamson, Corona History Association Jennifer Stewart, Liaison for NAVSEA

Creating Jobs – Building a Stronger Community

When I emigrated to this beautiful city in late 2002 from England, I had no idea that I would one day have the honor of becoming the Chairman of the Corona Chamber of Commerce! Since our inception in 1910, our Chamber has worked tirelessly for 112 years to champion business. It is humbling to consider the hard work and risks undertaken by successive Chamber Boards, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders so that we can live, work and play in our thriving city!

After being a stay-at-home mom for two years, my husband and I took out a second mortgage on our home so that I could fulfil my dream of owning a business. I knew only my immediate neighbors and moms from my daughter’s elementary school. I joined the Corona Chamber before I even had a phone number. I will never forget how Bobby Spiegel and his team took me under their wing. Many of the people I met at the early meetings and seminars are still friends and business colleagues today.

JOINING THE CHAMBER IS ONE OF THE BEST INVESTMENTS YOU CAN MAKE IN YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS!

Like you, I have learnt that building a successful business requires personal sacrifice and an endless juggling act to keep up with laws and legislation. The support of the Chamber enabled me to keep my doors open during two devastating recessions.

Employment and industrial relations are my passion! At Express Employment Professionals, we have been able to make over 22,000 placements into local companies – over 1,500 people have been converted into permanent hires.

Job creation and retention is the engine that underpins a strong community. Many of our employees live in Corona and spend their wages in local businesses. We want to reduce the daily commute for thousands of residents by creating more jobs locally. We cannot do this alone and we value our relationships with our strategic partners: City of Corona, County of Riverside, Corona-Norco Unified School District, our diverse range of community and non-profit organizations, as well as our neighboring cities and chambers.

The Chamber Board has identified key areas for focus in 2022: • Capacity building with our members to successfully bid for local contracts • Championing innovation • Involving emerging and underrepresented businesses and communities • Developing industry-specific mastermind groups for companies – manufacturing, technology, and cannabis

We want to hear from you! Our Board is developing a three-year strategic plan to take us to 2025. I welcome your ideas and input on any topic affecting your business and invite you to connect with us at our many events. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Palbinder Badesha, 2022 Board Chair Express Employment Professionals

PRESENTS

LEGISLATIVE ACTION GALA SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2022

5:30 PM - MIDNIGHT

Cocktail Attire (Black Tie preferred) Dinner | Dancing Silent Auction | Live Auction

Honoring Active Duty Military

bit.ly/CCCProm2022

For Sponsorship email Info@MyChamber.org

Funds raised to help offset Legislative Outreach Efforts and other Member Services

The Prom Do-Over of Your Dreams Coming This Spring

The Corona Chamber is excited to announce the theme of the 2022 Legislative Gala, Prom 2.0. This annual event is back for the first time since 2019, and will feature all your throwback faves, including awkward prom photos, balloon arches, prom court (as voted on by event guests), smuggled alcohol, and some surprise elements too. Sponsorship opportunities for this annual event are available now, and feature great prospects for business recognition. Highlights of the event will also include the popular salute to active military and more than 100 auction items ranging from home decor to one-of-a-kind experiences you can’t buy anywhere else. Members of the armed forces can register for the event for free (with a guest) by emailing Stephanie@ MyChamber.org by March 1, 2022.

Funds raised provide Chamber advocacy services for an entire year and support other critical membership services as well. To learn more about the Corona Chamber’s legislative efforts, report card, and outreach wins, visit mychamber.org/legislative-action-committee. In addition, zoom calls are held weekly on Wednesdays at 10am and available for viewing post-meeting on the Chamber’s YouTube channel. We invite all members and the public to tune in to learn about upcoming legislation and any action the business community needs to take in support or opposition of new bills.

Learn more about the event and register now at bit.ly/ CCCProm2022. Those registered by February 15th will be entered into a drawing just for early registrants and guaranteed a special giveaway item at the event.