Soledad Chamber Directory 2014

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 1

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

A Publication of South County Newspapers

Page 2 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

LOCAL it makes ¢ents!

SOLEDAD 8 8 Reasons to Shop Local

Razones para comprar local

1.

It supports local merchants. By supporting local merchants we bolster the Soledad economy especially in a tough economic environment.

1.

Apoya a los comerciantes locales. Mediante el apoyo a los comerciantes locales, reforzar la economía de Soledad especialmente en un ambiente económico difícil.

2.

It creates and keeps local jobs. Local businesses prefer to hire local. They create jobs in the community for people of all ages.

2.

3.

It puts your taxes to good use. Local businesses in the city add more to our tax base and make more efficient use of public services. Spending locally ensures that your sales taxes are reinvested right here in Soledad.

Crea y mantiene puestos de trabajo locales. Las empresas prefieren contratar a nivel local. Crean puestos de trabajo en la comunidad para personas de todas las edades.

3.

4.

It supports public safety and helps fund other city services. If each household spent an additional $2,500 annually in the City of Soledad instead of making these purchases in cities other than Soledad, that would equal $10,000,000, working in our community, as well as generate approximately $100,000 in revenue for the City’s General Fund, that could be used to support programs from recreation activities for our youth and park maintenance to public safety.

Pone sus impuestos a buen uso. Las empresas locales en la ciudad agregan más a nuestro sistema de impuestos y hace un uso más eficiente de los servicios públicos.

Los gastos locales asegura que sus impuestos sobre las ventas se reinviertan en Soledad.

4.

Apoya la seguridad pública y ayuda a financiar otros servicios de la ciudad. Si cada hogar hace un gasto adicional de $2,500 al año en la Ciudad de Soledad en vez de hacer estas compras en ciudades distintas en vez de Soledad, sería equivalente a $10,000,000, trabajando en nuestra comunidad, y a la vez genera alrededor de $100,000 dólares de ingresos para el Fondo General de la ciudad, que se podría usar para apoyar los programas de actividades recreativas para nuestra juventud y mantenimiento de parques para la seguridad pública.

5.

Es bueno para nuestro medio ambiente. Menos tiempo en nuestros coches ayuda a reducir nuestra huella de carbono. Comprar local reduce la cantidad de lo que tiene que conducir y disminuye el tráfico y la contaminación del aire.

6.

Cuando compramos localmente apoyamos a nuestros amigos y vecinos que han sido contratados por estas empresas. ¿Comprar en el mercado local es como ser un buen vecino, no?

7.

Comprando localmente conserva nuestra singularidad. Nuestras empresas son parte integral de nuestro carácter distintivo.

8.

Apoya a organizaciones de sin fines lucrativos. Cuando usted compra productos localmente, se apoya a las empresas locales que contribuyen a organizaciones sin fines de lucro en la comunidad. A las empresas locales con frecuencia les piden donaciones y al apoyar a estas empresas les están ayudando a dar a las causas y problemas que a usted le interesan.

5.

It is good for our environment. Less time spent in our cars helps reduce our carbon footprint. Shopping local reduces the amount of driving you need to do and lessens traffic and air pollution.

6.

When we shop locally we support our friends and neighbors who are employed by these businesses. Buying locally sounds like the neighborly thing to do, doesn’t it?

7.

Shopping locally retains our distinctiveness. Our unique businesses are integral part of our distinctive character.

8.

It supports community nonprofits. When you purchase goods locally, you are supporting local businesses that contribute to nonprofits in the community. Local businesses get frequent requests to donate and by supporting these businesses you are helping them give to causes and issues that you care about.

Make it a percentage. For most of us, buying everything local isn’t practical. Instead, designate a percentage of your spending for this purpose. We suggest a simple 10% shift approach. Shift 10% of your monthly gas, dining and retail purchases that you spend outside of Soledad and spend it locally. It makes ¢ents.

Conviértalo a un porcentaje. Para la mayoría de nosotros, comprar todo localmente no es práctico. En su lugar, designe un porcentaje de sus gastos para este propósito. Sugerimos un sencillo cambio de 10%.

Mensualmente cambie el 10% de su gas, compras en restaurantes y compras al menor que adquiere afuera de la Ciudad de Soledad y compre localmente. Tiene sentido.

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 3

Soledad-Mission Chamber hires an Office Manager

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

Chamber of Commerce Office Manager Vanessa Morga states that membership is growing and they have many good projects in the works.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD- The Chamber of Commerce hired long-term Soledad resident Vanessa Morga as the office manager, and she was introduced to the members at the September meeting.

“I have gained a lot of knowledge since I have been at the Chamber,” said Morga. “When I was in my business class a lot of the terms they use is related to the work I do in this field.”

Morga graduated from Soledad High School in 2013 and now is attending Hartnell majoring in Business Management. Her plans are to go to Hartnell for two years and then transfer to San Jose State

to complete her Bachelors degree.

After that she plans to work in the business field and once she has gained experience go back to college to complete her Masters.

“I really enjoy working here and getting to meet new people,” said Morga. “It is my plans in the future to go out into the community and visit businesses to let them know we are here to help them.”

She plans using the skill set she currently has to help raise membership and awareness about the city and the Pinnacles National Park.

Since Morga started in Sept. membership has gone up.

“I have been contacting many businesses and they didn’t even

know that we existed,” said Morga.

One of the projects she worked on aside from their membership drive is the “Let’s light up Front Street with Holiday Lights.” The campaign is soliciting businesses to donate for the installation of holiday decorations and lights around the light poles that line Front Street.

In the past, the city would pay for the service from Seasons and Reasons to come out and install the decorations and lights but since the economic down turn, as of one year ago this was removed from the cities budget.

The cost for the lease of the decorations, set-up and take down

is $3,800 and that is what the Chamber is seeking to raise.

In prior years when they had the Christmas decorations, other Monterey County newspapers featured the lights of Soledad and people came out to view the display.

The decorations went up a week before Thanksgiving and were removed right after Christmas.

The Chamber is also directly involved with the Christmas Festivities, such as the parade, and the Miss Snow Queen contest.

The Chamber office is located at 641 Front Street, right next to the Soledad Bee office. For more information regarding membership call 678-3941.

Page 4 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Cathy Lindstrom

Sandy Vosti Vice President

Ba Tang Director

Maria Barajas Treasurer

Manuel Ipong

Beverly Willitts Secretary

Richard Perez Soledad City Council Representative

Pauline Tomasini

Jack Franscioni O.S.B.A. Representative

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 5

2014 Chamber of Commerce Members (The list was provided by the Soledad Mission Chamber of Commerce) Old Oak Ranch

Eden Valley Care

McDonald’s

Valley Harvest Inn

OP Murphy and Sons

Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries

Nicola Mary Bianchi

Valley Pride Realty

Pauline Tomasini

Woodyard Funeral Home

Rabobank N.A.

South County Newspapers/ Soledad Bee

Paraiso Vineyards

Hartnell Community College

Braga Ranch

Inn at the Pinnacles

B&P Packing Co.

Beverly Willitts

Costa Farms Inc. Benson Plumbing Supplies

King City Glass KRKC Radio Station

Carl’s Jr.

Legacy Real Estate

City of Soledad Coldwell Banker-Ledesco Inc. CT Payment System

La Plaza Bakery Liberty Chapel Lopez Tax Service

Soledad Dennys

Soledad Laundry Land Sandy’s Hair & Nails Shaw Development Soledad Mission Recreation District Soledad Medical Clinic Soledad Tire & Wheel Service Inc. Soledad Unified School District Sound Design

Soledad Motel 8 Soledad Self Storage Soledad Pharmacy Pacific Valley Bank LosCoches Self Storage LLC Pronto Dollars Bookkeeping Express of Monterey County

Raising the Five Star Bar… again SUBMITTED STORY Eden Valley Care Center (EVCC), Soledad’s Five Star-rated skilled nursing facility, has added two topnotch healthcare professionals to their excellent management team.

Executive Chef Jose Hernandez joined the team late last year and has continued EVCC’s tradition of quality, top of the line food service for its residents.

Hernandez brings 11 years of healthcare experience, emphasizing homelike cooking for residents, cooking from the grill to the table. He takes pride in EVCC’s highly recognized “Puree Presentations Program” (food processing method) where the food gets seasoned, cooked, blended, molded into recognizable shapes, and then finally garnished creating food that’s “a work of art.” Only the best ingredients are selected on a daily basis and most recipes are handmade from scratch; truly a work of art in taste and presentation.

He is also the facility’s in-house “celebrity chef” who stars in their monthly cooking show, “Cooking with Jose” where he chops, dices, grills, and mixes ingredients using lively and entertaining demonstrations in front of the residents, explaining every step of the cooking process. A video camera projects his actions in real-time onto the 64-inch flatscreen TV behind him…just like a live demo at the mall. His shows are always filled with “fun and flavor!”

The creative geek Much like any skilled nursing facility, EVCC is faced with the challenge of culture change. According to skillednursingfacilities.org, the number of younger residents in nursing homes is increasing. In terms of activity programming, this means facilities need to offer more than just BINGO and board games. To answer this challenge, EVCC must think

Submitted Photo

outside the box. Enter Angelo Manzano.

Manzano has been in the healthcare for over 6 years, is a nationally certified Activity Professional, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. For his thesis, he created a virtual activity room where technology, universal and green designs, and holistic methods combine to create

an interior environment that adapts to the ever-changing activity needs of residents.

Since last May, Manzano has proposed and implemented a creative basket full of new programs including the use of Wi-Fi technology to stream movies via Netflix® and lis-

See EDEN VALLEY on page 22

Page 6 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

2013 Chamber Awards Banquet

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers Archive Photo

Out-going (from left) Rotary President Gary Stabb with Rotarians Jim and Beverly Willitts at his kick-out party on June 27 at Eden Valley Care Center where they were honored for all the community service work that they did aside from being selected as “Friends of the Chamber” at the May 3 awards banquet.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — The Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Awards Banquet at the YMCA community center on May 3, 2013.

The Master of Ceremonies was Vice President Sandy Vosti, who kept the evening on track and entertaining. At the start of the program the 2012 Snow Queen Estefany Cendejas, Miss Sparkle Queen Jazzmin Woods, Miss Snow Angel Queen Trinity Concepcion and Miss Snowflake Queen Mariana Leon were acknowledged for their support of last year’s Christmas parade and festivities.

“I think this year we should have a category for women over 50 called the snow plows,” said Vosti

after she thanked the young ladies.

Other county and state dignitaries also presented to the Chamber’s recognized individuals. County Supervisor Simon Salinas, Assemblyman Luis Alejo and Sen. Anthony Cannella’s Field Representative Millie Perea were present.

This year the chamber selected Graig and Patricia Stephens as the “Citizens of the Year.” The “Business of the Year” went to the Center for Employment Training.

“Friends of the Chamber” went to Jim and Beverly Willitts.

Other individuals were also honored at the event. For the City of Soledad Claudia Moreno and Francine Uy were recognized as the “Employees of the Year.”

See BANQUET on page 16

“Citizens of the Year” (from left) Graig and Patricia Stephens were also recognized by County Supervisor Simon Salinas for their dedication to the community.

Annual Awards Banquet WHERE: Soledad Community Center / YMCA WHEN: March 27th, 2014

The Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting nominations for all categories.

• • •

Citizen of the Year (Selfless, Sustained services on behalf of the ENTIRE community. Citizen does not have to be a resident.)

Business of the Year (Selfless activities for the betterment of the community.)

Friend of the Chamber (An individual that has made a significant contribution to the community.) *Need not be a Chamber Member to submit nominations.

Drop off location is the Soledad-Mission Chamber office at 641 Front St. Soledad, CA 93960 Phone: (831) 678-3941 Fax: (831) 647-2441 or Email: soledadmissionchamber@yahoo.com

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 7

Annual South County Expo brings businesses and residents together

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD - At the community center on Sept. 4, 2012 the Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce held their eight annual business showcase, the South County Business Expo, where residents from every city came to see the various community and business groups.

Last Sept. the Chamber decided to hold off on having the event because they decided the school had too many activities, which took away from the Expo. The Expo will be held this coming Spring.

“I gathered wine from some of

the wineries on River Road and I am here to showcase their wines,” said Grace Hymie of Hahn Estates Winery. “I was designated the wine lady and I love it.”

Diane’s Desserts from Soledad was serving Tiny cheesecakes, some with cherry topping or the traditional cheesecake. She also had double chocolate brownies with a hint of Kahlua to them.

“Today is so wonderful, there are so many businesses here and so many people you know. It is a great place to connect and promote your business,” said Owner Diane Dossche. “There are so many new res-

See EXPO on page 16

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

Camaron Mex Grill Owner Sergio Gasvelus serves community residents with his locally known shrimp dishes.

Eden Valley Care Center “The Family Choice”

Monterey County’s Most Unique Skilled Nursing Facility • Attentive and Caring 24-hour Skilled Nursing

• Physical, Speech & Occupational Therapy

• Clean, Bright, & Home-like Spacious Interior

• ‘Happy Days’ Soda Shop and Beauty Shop

• Breathtaking Garden & Fountain Courtyard

• Freshly Decorated, Spacious Rooms

• 100-Gallon Fish Aquarium and Garden Atrium

• Attractive, Delicious & Nutritious Meals

• Lively & Varied Activities Program

• Free Digital Satellite Television Service

612 Main Street, Soledad, Ca. 93960 (831)678-2462

Page 8 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

Soledad Mission-Chamber of Commerce Christmas Festivities brings the community together

Photos by Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

This year Dole participated in the parade with their dancing pineapple, banana and artichoke all the way down Front Street.

This year the little Miss Snow Angel winner was 6-year-old Amira Longoria where she was crowned at the event. She also received an award for having top sales for the entire competition.

SOLEDAD PHARMACY 547 Front Street • Soledad • CA 831-678-2678

Anne Trebino, R. Ph., Jeff Hoogendyk, R. Ph.

At this year’s parade (from left) Rabobank Branch Manager Lorena Gonzalez and their mascot along with the moneybags danced their way down Front Street waving at all the people who attended the event.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — The annual Christmas Festivities brought residents out to Front Street to watch the parade and find out this year who would be crowned in the Miss Snow Queen competition on Dec. 7.

The parade commenced at 5 p.m. from Cheezer’s parking lot and it traveled south along Front Street. On both sides of the street residents lined the sidewalks to watch the floats and participants in the parade.

The Soledad NJROTC color guards lead the parade followed by Soledad Police Chief Eric Sills and his family.

This year’s entries were numerous, from the Rabobank moneybags to the Dole dancing artichoke, banana and pineapple. Of course the parade ended with Santa Claus riding in a Cal Fire truck.

The coronation of the Miss

Snow Queen competition transpired immediately after the parade.

For all the contestants in the pageant earlier in the day they held their evening gown competition at Liberty Chapel on Kidder Street.

In the little Miss Snowflake competition the 2013 Queen was Jezlynn Calderon and the runnerup was Rayana Jimenez.

Amira Longoria was crowned little Miss Snow Angel queen for this year’s event. She also received an award for top sales in the entire Miss Snow Queen event.

In the little Miss Snow Sparkle age group Yamelly Maya was crowned queen and the runner-up was Trina-Lynne Brinson.

This year Amber Rey Galaviz was crowned Miss Snow Queen and the runner-up was Chantel Pizano.

On the west side of Front Street there were food vendors and a craft show. In Ceaser Chavez park there

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 9

SOLEDAD MEDICAL CLINIC 600 MAIN STREET SOLEDAD, CA 93960

(831) 678-2462 The Snow Queen honor and title was won by Amber Rey Galaviz where she also received top honors with her education.

In the Christmas festivities the coronation for the little Miss Snowflake contest Jezlynn Calderon was crowned queen and the runner up was Rayana Jimenez. were several jump houses for the children to enjoy.

Children also had the opportunity to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas and had their picture taken with him.

This event marks the 28-year milestone where the Soledad Mission Chamber of Commerce and city employees come together to make this event happen.

This year the Chamber also was instrumental in raising funds from local merchants to have Front

Street decorated with lights and other ornaments to bring in the holiday cheer.

“The Soledad Mission Chamber would like to thank the committee responsible for the wonderful Christmas parade and festivities,” said Chamber President Ba Tang.

“Many hours are spent in planning and preparing for this joyous occasion, bringing the entire community together in the spirit of the season.”

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Page 10 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

Chamber spearheads decorations and lights for the holiday season

Soledad Mission Shopping Center Hector DeLaRosa Sr. St. • Soledad

SHOP

DINE

Denny’s CVS Pharmacy Foods Co Kragen Auto Starbucks RaboBank The Goodwill Store Burger King

Holiday decorations were installed along Front Street in order to brighten up the holiday season.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — The Soledad Mission Chamber of Commerce spearheaded raising donations for the installation of holiday decorations for the business corridor of Front Street.

The “Let’s light up Front Street with Holiday Lights” solicited businesses to donate for the installation of holiday decorations and lights around the light poles that line Front Street.

In the past, the city would pay for the service from Seasons and Reasons to come out and install the

RELAX

Coast & Country Real Estate Round Table Pizza Marisco’s Puerto Nuevo Subway Teriyaki Express China One Express Donuts “n” Bagels Mission Healthcare Dr. Tran Dentistry

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

Sandy’s Hair & Nails Launder Land State Farm Insurance Soledad Ortho Physical Therapy Lopez Tax Service Cash to GO Rent A Center

decorations and lights but since the economic down turn, as of one year ago this was removed from the cities budget.

The cost for the lease of the decorations, set-up and take down is $3,800 and that is what the Chamber the Chamber raised.

The businesses that donated were Legacy Realty, 98 Cent Store, Soledad Wireless, Max Music, Soledad Rotary Club, El Camaron Mexican Grill, Soledad Lioness, OP Murphy, Soledad Pharmacy, Soledad Lions and Union Bank.

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 11

Goodwill opens doors to community in more ways than one Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

The grand opening of the new Goodwill Store in Soledad, where Goodwill executives and local dignitaries gathered at the storefront for the ribbon cutting.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — The new Goodwill Store held its ribbon cutting July 25 at 8:45 a.m. where dignitaries and community members gathered.

A line of residents formed waiting for the store to open its doors.

“We are really happy to be here,” said Goodwill President and CEO Michael Paul. “We have been wanting to come down here, South County, for a long time.”

Goodwill Senior Vice President John Collins addressed the crowd with the background of Goodwill of Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties.

Last year they serviced more than 1,200 people in all three counties with their workforce development services, with their skills training and career centers. Over

the course of Goodwill’s history they have served thousands and thousands of individuals.

“Our hope is to also extend our services to a remote site here,” said Collins. “Currently we have one in Atascadero, but someday in the future would like to have a virtual career center here that shall help job seekers right here in Soledad.”

Goodwill services are free and open to anyone for both prospective employees and employers.

In late 2011 they opened a store in Marina and then the largest of their stores in Salinas, which has a workforce development center, processing drop-off site and the store itself. Soledad is their newest location.

The Soledad store had been in the works for the last six years.

Soledad Rotary Club #645 Mission: Service Above Self

Meets weekly at noon on Thursdays at The Windmill Restaurant • 1155 Front St., Soledad

“I want to tell you that every community in Monterey county, especially South County, has been affected by this recession,” said Soledad Mayor Fred Ledesma.

“We have the largest number of farm workers per population in the state of California.

Ledesma continued, “We are very excited because this is filling the need for a lot of people in our community.”

“Like Mayor Ledesma said, this really does fill a need when families can come and shop and provide

See GOODWILL on page 18

Page 12 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

Community enjoys Fourth of July activities hosted by Chamber

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

The adults who participated in the watermelon-eating contest were more competitive than the children’s contest. Local residents didn’t hold back when trying to win the event.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — Fourth of July festivities began at 11 a.m. in the Little League park where Cub Scout Pack 365 and the Daisy troop kicked off the day’s events with the second annual Pinewood Derby race.

At 11:30 a.m. the children’s parade participants lined up in front of Main Street Middle School in their fun costumes, decorated Barbie mobiles, pedal cars and parent-pulled wagons. The parade route went down North Street toward Little League Park where spectators lined the sidewalks.

At last years talent show Raul Flores

coordinated 12 participants who sang many old time rock ‘n’ roll favorites.

They had local residents, and some people came from as far as Salinas.

Along the fence line in the field at the park were many game booths and food vendors. The Chamber of Commerce had a chicken barbecue, and the Soledad Warriors Football and Cheer team provided hot dogs. Other booths were serving up tri-tip sandwiches, enchiladas, pizza and hamburgers.

In addition, they had many games for adults and children from the traditional three-legged race, sack races and tug-of-

Soledad Mission

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

After the watermelon-eating contest they held a jalapeño-eating contest where the contestants chomped away on the hot peppers, not holding back on becoming the official winner. war.

Children gathered around the Sonshine clowns to get custom-made balloon hats or funny-shaped animals. The face-painting booth had children lined up waiting to have a custom design placed on their face or arm.

A major highlight for both adults and children was the traditional watermeloneating contest, pie-eating contest and the jalapeño-eating contest.

They had live music provided by locally known band Nu Horizon that adults and children danced to in the center of the baseball diamond.

Adjacent to the park on Andalucía Street there was an antique car show from local car club American Revolutions.

From a shiny 1954 Bel Air to newer Mustangs, the street was lined on both sides.

The fireworks display started at dusk at Jesse Gallardo Park, where families gathered with lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Again this year the fireworks display continued on for 45 minutes instead of the traditional 20 minutes, concluding the day’s events.

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Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 13

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce keeping the momentum up

File Photo/South County Newspapers

Mission-Soledad Chamber of Commerce (from left Manager) Vanessa Morga and President Ba Tang at the office on Front Street working together to make the chamber stronger. On Jan. 17 Ba Tang gave his formal resignation due to career changes but Vanessa will still be in the office assisting members until a new President is selected.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — The Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce and the city of Soledad have been working together to assist local businesses since the designation of the Pinnacles as a National Park.

On. Jan. 17 Chamber President Ba Tang submitted his letter of resignation to all of the chamber members.

“I have been offered a job back home at the Salinas Main office of Union Bank,” stated Tang in the letter. “I wanted to thank everyone for your support and trust in allowing me to be your President for the last nine months. I will continue to serve until the end of January 2014. Let’s keep the momentum going with all the great ideas and the excitement about Pinnacles National Park.”

Recently the board members of the chamber have discussed a number of forward-thinking ideas, but are limited in its capacity to truly achieve the vision they have for the community.

The members have discussed the need to bring professional help into the chamber to assist them in achieving their goal and to help them determine how to significantly increase revenue for the organization and to build in house capacity to

support more of the activities the Soledad community enjoys each year, such as the annual Christmas festivities, awards banquet, the upcoming business expo, Front Street lighting, ribbon cuttings for new businesses, mixers and other events.

The chamber recently sent a letter to the city requesting a grant from allocated Economic Development funds to act as one-time seed money to help build capacity within the chamber.

It is the intent if awarded a grant from the city the funds would be used to invest in the future Visitors Center, assist with their existing programs and help develop new programs made possible with designation of Pinnacles National Park.

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Page 14 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

The Driving force behind Fourth of July

BY LUCY JENSEN In case you don’t realize it, it takes a lot of bake sales and pies to be able to host a Fourth of July celebration. We are reminded of that year round in this little town we call home. No sooner than the fifth of July comes around than Pauline Tomasini and her merry band of Fourth of July committee members are prepping for the next hometown celebration the following year. Why? You might ask yourself, if you are not involved in the event. Well, because the home town celebration is funded by multitudes of small things such as bake sales and rummage sales, plus a few small sponsor dollars, and it takes almost a whole year to gather the considerable funds needed ‘to keep the celebration’ going year after year. There are no big gun corporate sponsors or tax payer dollars put aside for our Fourth of July celebration. It is all small, local efforts. That is why.

Personally, there are few things I despise more than loud bangs – fireworks, popping balloons and the like.

I can never get excited about anything where I will, most likely, have to cover my ears multiple times and tense my body in the anticipation of that thing which, in my mind, is definitely going to hurt me. That is why the Fourth of July could never be considered my favorite holiday, though most days of the week I do enjoy a birthday party and especially the concept of our nation’s independence as it comes around each year and reminds me I am now one of its proud Citizens.

My very first celebration of the

Fourth was actually spent at the Washington Mall fully decked out in dark glasses and ear plugs, if the truth were to be completely revealed, and not much has really altered since then; except that now I have to be mindful, in addition, of my animals who dislike the Fourth of July about as much as I do and all who make bangs around her. My alpha canine Baxter is in exactly the same league as me. Start popping a few firecrackers around him, or even look as if you are going to do something silly like that and Baxter is under the bed quivering. He will go anywhere; do anything to flee the scary bangs. One time in his life, out of his mind with fear, he broke through a barbed wire fence and headed for the hills. Since then we have had to take precautions. “Would you like to go to such and such party for the Fourth of July?” “Will we be home by firework time, then no!” I don’t anticipate with pleasure all those streaky colorful arrays of patriotism. I just tell myself to calm down; it will soon be all over with.

But I do support our home town celebration and I will donate to the collective cause so that the town can have an event. Why, because I think it’s important that the townspeople get together once in a while and celebrate the positives in life. Local is good and good is local; it’s as simple as that. Sitting on the grass watching the watermelon eating contest while enjoying a fresh-offthe-grill hamburger, courtesy of a local group fundraising for youth or the bet-

See PAULINE on page 18

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Pauline Tomasini is a champion and the driving force behind many good causes in the community. She is truly the driving force behind the Fourth of July celebration.

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 15

Stories from long ago A Soledad vignette

u A t o Pa d a d e ol d Farm Sup rts

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“IF WE CAN’T GET IT, YOU DON’T NEED IT”

By Bud Sarmento

Bud and Paula Sarmento are long standing supporters and members of the Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce. Bud used to write a wonderful, amusing feature in the Chamber newsletter, titled “Old Timer Corner”.

As he backed up old Sturdy between the shafts of the buggy, he thought with dread the idea of his Soledad trip. He knew the exact amount he owed Johnson, but he had no idea how he would fare when he asked Johnson to add more onto his bill. It would be nice to have two stores in town, then he wouldn’t have to face Johnson today. He didn’t intend to buy much this time, just some floor, salt, sugar, and coffee, and a small piece of chicken pen wire. His garden provided what it could during the growing season, corn, potatoes and a few vegetables. Chickens provided eggs and occasionally tough old hen meat. Sometimes he would plug a rabbit with his single shot 22 and that would be dinner. The smoke house provided a couple of hams and bacon when he didn’t use them for bartering in town. He and Lucy were always torn between keeping a pig back, and selling all of the few that they raised.

Lucy wanted him to buy soap. She said it would be nice to buy that nice

smelling bar soap that was wrapped so pretty. It was so much nicer than the soap she made at home. It actually made lather. Building a fire in the yard and making soap at home was no fun. She also wanted cloth for a new dress and something to make a dress for daughter Francoise, but that would have to wait.

He thought it would be nice to go to Mr. James’s barber shop and get his hair cut, but that was an expense he would get hell for; Lucy always cut his hair.

As he came down from their sod house on the edge of the canyon on his way to Metz Road and then to Soledad, he had one pleasant thought that he didn’t dare share with Lucy. He had squirreled away ten cents and was going to enjoy a glass of wine at Giacomazzi’s on Main Street across from the Frolli Hotel. Later he would go over to the S.P. Depot and see who was coming and going on the afternoon train. Lucy would want to know everything about his trip to Soledad.

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Page 16 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

BANQUET, from page 6

The Soledad Unified School District had the opportunity to recognize and honor its employees.

Terri Lambert and Jorge Guzman were honored as “Administrators of the Year,” Mary Beth Orser honored as “Certificated Employee of the Year” and Lori Morones as “Classified Employee of the Year.”

The Soledad Rotary Club selected and honored Fraces Bengston as the “Rotarian of the Year.”

Eden Valley Care Center recognized Mely Alipio, LVN, as the “Licensed Nurse of the Year,” and Maggie Virgen and Mayra Tamayo as the “Employee of the Year.”

The Soledad Medical Clinic recognized and honored Alejandra

EXPO, from page 7

Gutierrez and Elizabeth Jauriqui as “Employee of the Year.”

The South County Autism Awareness Project honored two “Student Advocate of the Year” awards to Lizeth Vasquez and Manual Acosta.

Union Bank (formally Santa Barbara Bank and Trust) recognized Julie Silva as the “Employee of the Year.”

The event started at 6 p.m. with a silent auction and jazz music preformed by Garin Fuhriman on saxophone and Bruce Graham on keyboard. At 7 p.m. dinner was served, and after that the program began at 7:30 p.m.

taurants in town and it is so great to try all of their food.”

Some of the restaurants that participated were Frankie’s Grill where they provided tacos, Cheezer’s Pizza (now known as California Gourmet Pizza) provided pizza, and El Camaron Mex Grill had three different varieties of shrimp.

“This is great exposure to our business,” said Camaron Mex Grill Owner Sergio Gasvelus. “We are very happy to be here.”

“This is a wonderful event and I am glad to be here,” said Coast and Country Real Estate Group Real Estate Advisor Joe Garcia. “I am full and relaxed.”

Some of the community groups included Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries and Soledad Library. They were promoting not only their library services, but also their upcoming event in October.

Their annual event for 18 years, Words and Wine will feature guest author and American long-distance open-water swimmer Lynne Cox, who penned the books Grayson, Swimming to Antarctica and South with the Sun. “It is nice to see our patrons outside of the library because it lets them see that we are a part of the community,” said Soledad Librarian Denise Campos. “One of the things we are doing here today is we have applications for people to get their library card that can be used at all of our seventeen libraries.”

The partnership of the library distributing Monterey Bay Aquarium passes for up to six people has a new program. It used to be where each library would get a certain amount of passes at the beginning

of the month and once they were gone, that was it. In 2012 the Shelf to Shore program began Sept. 10 and will not expire until May of 2013.

Charles Gibbs, who is running for City Council, was present and his motto was “Let’s keep Soledad Growing!” He was handing out postcards soliciting residents “What can Soledad do for you?” which encouraged them to visit his blog with one’s answer.

“We are always pleased to be here. We love the mix of businesses and residents,” said Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority (SVSWA) Diversion Manager Susan Warner.

“Our message is applicable to all of them. We are delighted how well organized it is every single year.”

SVSWA was offering residents and businesses recycled used battery buckets and reusable bags.

Something new that they were handing out was a removable window cling that will remind you to take your reusable bags into the store for people who don’t remember to do so prior to entering the store.

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 17

It’s happening in Soledad: slogan changes ‘Gateway to the Pinnacles’ Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

Soledad Chamber of Commerce Board Director Ba Tang spoke to the Press on how the chamber sees this as an opportunity for growing businesses in Soledad.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — Soledad city leaders and staff announced last Feb. 6 at a press conference held at the clock tower on Front Street that they have adopted the slogan “Gateway to the Pinnacles” in response to the park recently being named the United States’ 59th national park.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Soledad, our many local businesses and families they support,” said Mayor Fred Ledesma. “The potential boon to our local tourism industry holds the potential of fueling Soledad’s continued growth well into the future. As city leaders, we must do everything we can to seize upon this historic opportunity to maximize the benefits to our local businesses and our many residents.”

The city launched an aggressive marketing and media strategy designed to attract park visitors to patronize Soledad’s local businesses and to visit other regional amenities in south Monterey County.

In addition, at the press conference they unveiled renderings of two new monument signs that now are placed at each entrance into town.

Union Bank (formally Santa Barbara Bank and Trust) New Accounts Specialist Cristina Arreola attended the press conference in support of the city’s efforts. For Arreola, the Pinnacles holds a very special place in her heart. She started going to the Pinnacles six years ago.

“I was so amazed at how pretty it was and it was so close to home, and how many years I missed out on not going,” said Arreola.

Every time Arreola goes to the park, she sees something new. She likes to venture to the Pinnacles during the different seasons of the year to see the change in colors in the plants. On her hiking trips she has seen waterfalls, condors, deer and other types of wildlife.

“I have never encountered any wildlife that I have been afraid of,” said Arreola.

Arreola never hikes the Pinnacles alone and always tries to bring someone that hasn’t visited the park so they are introduced to the beauty of the area. In January, she paid a visit to the park and discovered block ice on the rocks with dapples of snow on them.

“We went up to the Pinnacles, and I thought we would have the park to ourselves, but to my surprise there were a lot of visitors from different states and some from other countries. I was very happy to see so many visitors,” said Arreola.

Arreola often goes hiking with her niece, Lisa Rico. They have hiked up to the highest points in the park. It was actually Rico who first introduced Arreola to the Pinnacles.

Their first trip, Arreola’s daughter, niece and some nephews came along. The whole family was amazed at the lava rock formations and they tried seeing different shapes out of them. That day trip, they explored the general area.

The second time Arreola and Rico visited the park, they were in training for a marathon. They were not experienced hikers, and it was in their minds that individuals should try to go as fast as they can instead of walking slow and exploring the beauty around them.

“We were trying to see the distance we could go, and I think we did seven to eight miles,” said Arreola. “We ended up being exhausted and we even ran out of water. We made it back to Soledad though safely. That didn’t stop us though from going back. We know better now. You get such a sense of accomplishment when you make it to the highest peaks. And the views are incredible.”

Arreola continued, “It such a rewarding feeling to be close to nature. You know it can be really cold and windy here [in Soledad], and up there it can be warm and calm. I encourage local residents to visit the park since it is right here in our backyard.”

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Page 18 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

GOODWILL, from page 11 for their families with good quality products and merchandise,” said Gonzales Mayor Maria Orozco.

Millie Perea, district director of Congressman San Farr’s office, and Priscilla Barba of Sen. Anthony Cannella’s office each presented certificates to Paul.

Soledad Chamber of Commerce then along with the other dignitaries conducted the ribbon cutting ceremony.

They then opened the doors and residents started to shop immediately.

“It was like a treasure hunt to watch the people going through the store,” said Shaw Development Owner Bill Shaw. “You never know what you might find. This definitely fills a need in the community.”

“We had a fantastic first day for the store,” said Goodwill Store Manager Yvette Gonzalez. “We were able to answer questions and guide the customers to what they were looking for.”

PAULINE, from page 14 ter good, makes you feel like you are a part of something nicely larger than yourself and much more significant.

You feel as if you are truly part of the village you call home. Thanks to Pauline Tomasini – the Queen of the Fourth of July event, if they had one – and the hard-working Fourth of July committee, we townsfolk get to enjoy a peaceful day in the park with our families. We can listen to music, eat good food, chat to our fellow townsfolk, jump in the jumpy house, eat and chat some more and then watch the extraordinary fire work display. It’s old time America in small town America; and those are the types of traditions we need to support and maintain and look forward to each year as they come around. Even though I cannot stand the fireworks – sorry Pauline – and I am glad when they stop – sorry, again, Pauline – I recognize their strong and impressive symbolism and can respect them whole-heartedly for that. Fortunately for me, my home is well away from the bangs, so I can just

admire the colors from a distance.

It was a lovely celebration in the park for sure this year and, hopefully, the festivity helps our local children give a nod to our nation’s history – where we came from and where we are now – as well as allowing all of Soledad’s townsfolk the relaxing pleasure of sitting on the grass, chatting to friends and family, helping support local non-profit groups and enjoying a peaceful gathering. Remember, when you see Pauline selling pies outside the post office right before Turkey Day – or throughout the year, truthfully - that she is fundraising for all of our 4th of July celebration. Without the cookies and pies she bakes and sells, as well as barbecue fundraisers and rummage sales - we could be without fireworks this year and that would probably get many folk all hot and bothered.

Multitudes of thanks must go out to the Soledad 4th of July committee - an important arm of the Soledad Chamber - and their super small town event. If they invite you to buy tickets for a 4th

of July BBQ in October or a bake sale in November, this is how they make it happen for all of us, so dig and dig deep where you can. In most towns, it takes a village – in Soledad it comes courtesy of Pauline Tomasini and her merry band of volunteers. Be grateful for all our local Chamber does for our town from the Christmas Parade and the Queens Contest to the hometown celebration for the 4th of July and all the other events in between like the Awards Banquet and the South County Expo. The Soledad Chamber is there for the local businesses and it’s there for the local people.

The Soledad Chamber is a mighty force in this community and they deserve to be recognized for all their many months of volunteerism that they freely bestow upon our area.

Lucy Jensen is a local REALTOR and proud supporter of the Soledad Fourth of July event – with or without the fireworks. Lumajen1@aol.com.

Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 19

Council receives update on Visitor’s Center project Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

One of the options discussed at the last City Council meeting was to utilize the Mission-Soledad Chamber office which s located on Front Street for the Visitors Center.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — At the Jan. City Council meeting, the Community & Economic Development Director Brent Slama presented to the mayor and City Council an update of the Visitor’s Center project and action on the item will be taken at a future meeting.

At the Dec. 4 meeting, the Successor Agency board directed staff to focus efforts away from renovation and construction of the Historical Society building and focus on a short-term solution.

Since that time, staff had met with the unofficial “Visitor’s Center Committee” and has struggled to find consensus on the next plan of action. Significant concerns were brought up in spending a significant amount of money on infrastructure to serve a proposed modular structure on Front Street.

Alternative proposals were discussed to place the modular adjacent to the Historical Society to potentially establish a location at the Mission Shopping Center.

There was also interest in functioning on a temporary basis at the existing MissionSoledad Chamber office located on Front Street.

Serious concerns continue to exist concerning the ability of the Chamber or another organization to properly fund, staff and operate the center.

After review and analysis, in lieu of short-term construction of a Visitor’s Center due to the concerns stated at multiple sites and after discussion with the Public Relations firm Ford & Bonilla, staff proposed the concept of a Visitor’s Center Ambassador program. This would allow

multiple local businesses to participate in a program to increase awareness about the Pinnacles National Park and other area attractions, such as the local wineries, and reduce the need for a dominant physical location in the short term.

Ford & Bonilla presented the concept of the Ambassadors Program to the Council. The primary purpose of the program is to expand local stakeholder involvement, improve tourism-related business recognition and promote sales and find a temporary vehicle to improve capacity to potentially fund and staff this effort in the future.

Another option that was considered in order to get the project off the ground was the idea of the city becoming more involved in funding the activities of the Chamber through direct one-time grant seed money. While the exact amount needed at this time is unknown, it would be based on availability of funding and would not exceed $50,000.

Since Soledad adopted the motto of being the “Gateway to the Pinnacles” they invested in two monument signs at both ends of town plus added banners along Front Street to promote the park.

The option of setting up a 1,440-squarefeet modular on Front Street or next to the Historical Society would initially cost approximately $8,500 with a monthly rent of $600 to $800 a month.

It is in consideration to do this for a two-year period and with all the upgrades to the landscape, furnishing and bring utilities the estimated budget would be from $80,000 to $100,00.

The prospective location is on Front

Street right next to the park and ride. It is the hopes that a shuttle system can be put in place to take visitors to and from the Pinnacles National Park. They envision that the local businesses will also benefit from this because visitors will buy their lunch, water and other supplies

they would be taking with them on their adventure.

Staff was directed to solidify in greater detail the costs and timeline that this could be accomplished in and to explore the other options discussed.

Page 20 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

It’s still happening in Soledad, but even more

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

After the installation of the new billboard (from left) City Manager Adela Gonzales and Chamber President Ba Tang visited the sign and held their hands in the sky showing all their support for the city’s new branding to help drive business development for tourism to visit and accommodate guests to the area.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — On May 29 the replacement billboard sign for “It’s Happening in Soledad” had the addition of “Gateway to

the Pinnacles” added to it. The sign was installed along southbound U.S. Highway 101 immediately after Camphora Gloria Road, two miles north of Soledad.

“This is so exciting,” said City Manager Adela Gonzalez. “Today we are making history with a new landmark for Soledad.”

Gonzalez continued, “What we are S trying to do is draw people to the area r through social media and signage and it is S w See SIGN on page 22a

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Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 21

Soledad Laundry Land joins Chamber

Deborah Mills/South County Newspapers

Soledad Laundry Land was honored by a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Soledad Chamber of Commerce. Members and local dignitaries attended the event on March 13. Owner Rita Chappel (cutting ribbon) plans to serve the community for many years to come.

BY DEBORAH MILLS SOLEDAD — A chamber of commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Soledad Laundry Land last March 13 to welcome Rita Chappel as a new member 2and local business to the area.

“Thank you for all supporting us, and I am looking forward to many years of serving the city of Soledad,” said Chappel prior to the cutting of the ribbon.

“The new motto in Soledad is ‘we care,’” said Mayor Fred Ledesma. “Our

new mantra is to do a little more than what is asked of you. We wish you all the best.”

The new laundromat has many perks for local residents. There is an attendant on duty at all times, same-day fluff-andfold service, dry-cleaning dropoff site for

pick-up in two to three days, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for every load free soap is given to customers that are washing their own clothes.

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Page 22 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014

EDEN VALLEY, from page 5 ten to music through Pandora®, and offer free internet browsing for residents with smart devices; patients with vision and hearing problems are now offered audio books and MP3 players for entertainment. Through his efforts, the facility acquired four new high-definition channels, two of them solely for the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Athletics, a nice treat to all resident baseball fans.

Manzano has used his design skills to transform the facility with

décor and decorations that infuse color, energy, and liveliness. His creativity is transforming the notion of resident activities. He also reintroduced “Movie Night” into the facility by mimicking the entire “going to the movies” experience; twice a month he decorates the dining room’s façade with a huge cinema sign, a ticket booth, red carpet, and velveteen railings. He also acts as the ticket master and prepares freshly popped corn and refreshments to

movie-goers.

Another exciting addition from Manzano’s basket of ideas is the introduction of freshly baked bread in the dining. Every morning, he puts savory bread mixes with flavors ranging from Italian Herb, Country White, Classic Sourdough, Hawaiian Sweet, and Honey Wheat among others, into a bread maker then places it in the dining room to bake. The baking bread creates a wonderful sensory experience among individuals in-

side the dining room, even those with cognition deficits. One young visitor once said, “That smell reminds me of nana’s cookies.”

As a licensed instructor, Manzano introduced Zumba fitness to the facility which became a wildly popular and much anticipated instant hit!

And that is just the beginning … Angelo welcomes you to come in and see for yourself.

services they offer to the community and visitors alike,” said Chamber President Ba Tang.

A bill went into effect that passed through the U.S. Senate on Dec. 30 promoting that California’s Pinnacles National Monument be promoted to national

park status. The same bill was approved by the House of Representatives in July, and in January, President Obama’s signature made it official.

On Feb. 11 the official ceremony designating the Pinnacles a National Park where the celebration was attended by hundreds at the east side of the Park. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, Rep. Sam Farr (D-Carmel) and California Secretary for Natural Resources John Laird shared the history of how it got passed into congress and then signed by Obama.

Once the Pinnacles was deemed a National Park, city officials and community leaders saw the opportunity on how this could be a benefit to the local economy.

In early February, city leaders and staff announced at a press conference held at the clock tower on Front Street that they have adopted the slogan “Gateway to the Pinnacles” in response to the park recently being named the country’s 59th national park.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Soledad, our many local businesses and families they support,” said Mayor Fred Ledesma. “The potential boon to our local tourism industry holds the potential of fueling Soledad’s continued growth well into the future. As city leaders, we must do everything we can to seize upon this historic opportunity to maximize the benefits to our local businesses and our many residents.”

One of the first things the city did was secure all Internet URLs with anything having to do with “Gateway to the Pinnacles.” They then decided to contract

with a high profile marketing firm, Ford and Bonilla, to help promote the city’s efforts in getting the word out to the public at large.

The city council voted on and moved forward with utilizing local gas tax funds to construct two monument signs at both ends of town. Construction was completed in the middle of last May. In early last April members of city staff and city council, business owners and Pinnacle National Park staff held an informal meeting on how together they could work together in order to capitalize on the new status of the park.

At the informal roundtable discussion, positive conversation included how the private sector, the city and the National Park Service could work together.

Pinnacles National Park Superintendent Karen Beppler-Dorn shared information on how they are working on surveys to learn more about visitors and their needs.

Beppler-Dorn did share that they will be putting in a primitive campground on the west side of the park. She also expressed that if Soledad could get an RV park somewhere, that would also be an added amenity for the visitors.

Since the billboard has been up for a week there has been buzz around town about how some residents like it and others don’t.

“We are making positives changes and moving forward,” said Mayor Fred Ledesma. “I think change is good, but some people have a hard time with it.”

SIGN, from page 20 our hopes to get the businesses involved once the visitors arrive, where they independently can benefit by providing services to them.”

“With the chamber we are joining efforts to assist businesses and how they can make improvements to enhance the

Soledad Bee Proud to be a member of the Soledad Mission Chamber of Commerce 635 Front St. • Soledad, CA 93960

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Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014 • Page 23

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Page 24 • Soledad-Mission Chamber of Commerce Business Directory • 2014