Port O Call - March 2010 by Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

PORT CALL GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Vol. 55 No. 11

www.stocktonchamber.org

MARCH 2010

You Can Go

Home Again PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 461 STOCKTON CA

A revitalized Miracle Mile is drawing business owners back to their roots

Photograph by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography; historical photo provided by Bank of Stockton

ATTENTION EMPLOYERS Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of San Joaquin County WorkNet’s 8th Annual Job & Resource Fair Thursday, April 1st, 2010 Stockton Arena 10am - 3pm We anticipate over 4,000 job seekers in attendance! Don’t delay...Space is limited! Applications are due no later than Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 (Applications received after the due date may be placed on a waiting list.)

All employers must have current job openings to participate.

San Joaquin County

Visit our website at www.sjcworknet.org to download your application

PORT CALL Photograph by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography; historical photo provided by the Bank of Stockton

You Can Go Home Again

CONTENTS

DID YOU S

EE THAT?

Our cover depicts two different eras of the

Events

same location--in the 1950’s and our city

President’s Column

today--blended together as one photo.

CEO Column

Leadership Stockton

Visitors Bureau

Programs

New Members

Cover Story

News Briefs

Calendar

4 10

Asparagus Festival FREE e-Waste Recycling

Don’t Miss! March Chamber Mixer Thursday, March 4, 5:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. Residence Inn by Marriott 3240 W. March Lane Stockton, CA 95219

PORT CALL Official publication of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Serving the Greater Stockton area business community since 1901. CHAMBER OFFICERS PRESIDENT Rick Goucher, CB Richard Ellis Commercial Real Estate SR. VICE PRESIDENT Dick McClure, Woodwork Institute

Switch to Oak Valley Community Bank to experience first-class service with an old-fashioned touch. We have grown to become one of the strongest and most convenient banks serving the Central Valley. With twelve branches and over $500 million in assets, it’s easy to see why more local families and businesses choose Oak Valley Community Bank every day. We are committed to hiring experienced professionals with deep roots in the communities we serve - local lenders, local decision makers and local leadership. Come home to Oak Valley and come home to familiar faces and a lending hand.

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

Cathy Ghan, Commercial Real Estate Loretta Trevena, Branch Manager Sarah Williams, Cash Management

2935 West March Lane 209.320.7850

www.ovcb.com

Stockton Mailing & Printing Service, Inc. Full Service Commercial Printing and Mailing Facility

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FINANCIAL VICE PRESIDENT Debbie Armstrong, Old Republic Title Company VICE PRESIDENT Gary J. Long, Gary J. Long Jewelers VICE PRESIDENT Stephen Barney, F&M Bank IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Dennis Goldstrand, Goldstrand Planning Group CHAMBER DIRECTORS Phil Acosta, Delights Waterfront Eatery Blaine Bibb, ServiceMaster Melvin Boles, ATM R US Judith Buethe, Judith Buethe Communications Steven Crabtree, Herum Crabtree Dan Keyser, Grupe Commercial Company Dan Durst, Durst Contract Interiors Bill Harr, Hormel Foods Corporation George Kaplanis, Hilton Stockton Kenneth Levy, Wells Fargo Advisors Terry Lightfoot, Kaiser Permanente Mike Long, Bekins/ Pacific Storage Co. Brian Martucci, Berberian European Motors Knute Momberg, Momberg Consulting Fred Walkover, Comcast CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Douglass W. Wilhoit, Jr.

209.547.2766

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

209.547.2764

OPERATIONS/FINANCE DIRECTOR Sandy Dwyer

209.547.2770

VISITORS BUREAU DIRECTOR Wes Rhea

209.547.2770

VISITORS BUREAU/ GROUP SALES Monica Slingerman

209.547.2770

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Michelle Flores

209.547.2770

MEMBERSHIP SALES CONSULTANT Teri Manley

209.337.2723

SCAP COORDINATOR Carmen Lamas

209.337.2718

SCAP COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mikki Gilbert 209.337.2730

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SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD. Timm Quinn 209.547.2960 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FINANCE DEPARTMENT Lia Her 209.547.2770 RECEPTIONIST/ CUSTOMER SERVICE Alyssa McConnell 209.547.2770 PUBLISHER Stockton Chamber of Commerce

209.547.2770

GRAPHIC DESIGN Never Boring Design Associates

209.526.9136

ADVERTISING Amanda Boyer

209.988.5800

PRINTING Snyder Lithograph

209.466.9026

MAILING Stockton Mailing & Printing Inc.

209.466.6741

Greater

4133 Postal Avenue Stockton, CA 95204 Serving the Central Valley since 1956

Photo by: Arturo Vera Photography/Tidewater Gallery

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

Events

Carpet Cleaning

by: Heidi Altamirano

Asparagus Festival Volunteers Needed Just how lucky can we get? People come from all over the West Coast to attend the Asparagus Festival, and it takes place right in our own backyard! We’ll have spectacular entertainment, fun for the kids, and the best food you can imagine at this three-day festival

It’s more than just carpet

with something for everyone.

r thei . . . . it’osg park d

However, be assured that the most fun will definitely be at the Chamber’s Pasta Booth in the Asparagus Alley kitchen! There is still time to join us as a volunteer to help prepare this

schedule online at www.stanleysteemer.com or call 209-474-7771

mouthwatering dish. Not only will you have a chance to make some great new friends, but you’ll also help raise funds for a variety of Chamber programs. A few hours of your time on April 23, 24 or 25 will get you free admission to the festival, a complimentary lunch, and a free shuttle bus ride from Delta College on Saturday and Sunday. To volunteer, please call

15% Off Commercial Cleaning OR Tile & Grout Cleaning

SAVE $40 (Reg. Price $139) 2 Rooms and a Hallway OR a sofa cleaned for $99

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www.stanleysteemer.com

209-474-7771 or 1-800-STEEMER

Tortellini Timm or Angel Hair Heidi at 547-2770.

2010 Golf Tournament The good news is that our 29th Annual Golf Tournament is not yet sold out. However, we suggest you sign up your foursome before it is! Elkhorn Country Club will host our day on the greens April 12th, beginning with registration at 10:00 a.m., lunch at 11:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at Noon. After the tournament, we’ll have an awards reception honoring the top players of the day. We still have some terrific sponsorship packages available which offer high visibility at this signature event. You may join us as a $150 tee or green sponsor, or as a $700 sponsor that includes signage on a tee or green and registration for a foursome. Single player registrations are available for $160. If you’re looking for an easy way to highlight your business products or services, consider donating a prize for our posttournament raffle. It’s an ideal way to market your business to other high profile business people also supporting and participating in our tournament. So make at least one of your Monday’s in April a fun one by joining us at Elkhorn Country Club.

Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764

continued on page 12

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010

From Your President... by: Rick Goucher

In addition, the Chamber was honored to be included Wednesday, February 10th on the panel of President Eibeck’s second Community Forum Series, “Beyond our Gates”, held at the San Joaquin Council of Governments Board Room.

Your 109 year-old Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce has enjoyed a wonderful, long-term relationship with the University of the Pacific. With the arrival of President Pamela A. Eibeck, it is going to be even stronger and more beneficial for both the University and regional community. We were proud to have her grace the cover of the January Port O Call, combined with an informative story on her abilities and energy she brings to our community. The Chamber Board of Directors had a productive meeting with President Eibeck on January 12th, which has resulted in several meetings with her staff and the Chamber staff on how we can better work together to advance both our missions.

PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

The discussion was set around “Partnering On The Areas Economy: Supporting the Safety Net.” We know we are going through difficult times for all but as your Chamber CEO said at the forum, “We can think or say as individuals it is not our problem to solve, but that is ‘head-inthe-quicksand’ denial. We must band together to maximize our community resources, be great citizens, demand accountability from all our elected officials, and most of all support the organizations in our community who help others.” I invite you to join or rejoin your Chamber and help us meet the challenges we are faced with today so tomorrow can be a better day for all!

From Your CEO...

Well March is here and we are on the downward slope to spring. As I sit here preparing

by: Doug Wilhoit

this article it is pouring outside and snowing in the mountains, which is a good thing for OUR (not SC) water supply. Hope we get much more before the rainy season is over.

movies they present even better. They are excited

Thanks to all of you and the Stockton

about how this will improve the fun nights at the

Thunder for making “Chamber Night with the

Historic Bob Hope Theater (Fox). Hint: you can

Stockton Thunder Mixer” a huge success. Your

see upcoming events at the Bob Hope (Fox) on

President, Rick Goucher, dropped the pre-game

www.visitstockton.com

puck and then looked the Victoria player in the

Now to a more serious and perplexing

eye and said, “have a good game but you guys

issue – the Prison Hospital/the Receiver/CDCR.

are in trouble.” The Thunder won big. Wow, the

On Friday, February 5 I received a copy of the

power of the Chamber President. We also had a

CapitalWeek Blog with a story by Malcolm

terrific February mixer at Valley Brew Company.

Maclachian. He had interviewed me some time

Thanks to Kellie Jacobs and all her staff.

ago and I was looking forward to seeing his work.

I had an interesting phone call the other

It was titled, “An Intellectual History of Clark

day from a friend of mine who told me of an

Kelso”. It was an interesting read and I learned

experience she had in a small Bay Area city and

a great deal about Mr. Kelso. Some I knew and

wanted my opinion if what she experienced

some was new information. I have to say he is an

might work here in Stockton. She told me she

interesting and intelligent man and in the article,

went to a movie theater and saw a San Francisco

believe it or not, found at least one area I could

Opera Company production on the screen. Good

agree with him and we could sit down to have a

thing she is a good friend because my laughter

friendly conversation over a cocktail or meal.

was raucous and loud. Why you may ask? I do

The article pointed out, “In [Kelso’s] many

not know how many times I have written about

years of writing for academic journals and also

www.visitstockton.org, where you can find out all

opining on legislation, a portrait emerges of a

the good things happening here and also sign up

man with clear ideas about how we got into our current mess – and how we might get

for the weekly updates. I had my friend go to the

out of it. He has also shown a willingness to offer opinions that put him at odds with

site, walked her through it and to her amazement

some of the most powerful institutions in the state, including judges, the Department

she found that the Centre City Cineplex has been

of Corrections and the powerful state prison guards’ union… For one thing, Kelso has

doing this for over a year to very good crowds.

been an outspoken advocate for sentencing reform.”

She was excited to see the upcoming schedule of

Ah Ha, I exclaim with glee – that is where we agree! In my September 2008

this type of performance. I shall rest my case but

Port O Call I wrote this: “While I sat planning my September article deciding how to

one more time I ask you all to be frequent visitors

express to all of you the sinking and sickening feeling I have about the quarter century

to www.visitstockton.com and also sign up for the

of ‘dereliction of duty’ of the Executive and Legislative Branches of the Government of

weekly email. Try it, I know you will like it.

California in regards to the ongoing issue of the State’s dysfunctional prison system.”

Also, I received another great phone call that

I continued, “I also dredged up my old frustrations with the State Government while

the Friends of the Fox—after working very hard

on the SJ County Board of Supervisors and during those 16 years having the privilege

to make this happen—have now received their

of working with the California State Association of Counties culminating by being

new digital projector, which will make the vintage

CSAC President in 1994. I lost track of the times the CSAC www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

continued on page 19

MAR2010

Leadership Stockton

UNIVERSIT Y PARK E D U C AT I O N - O F F I C E - R E TA I L - R E S I D E N T I A L

University Park

is a unique, mixed-use community encompassing

by: Timm Quinn

education, commercial business, shopping and housing. Home to CSU Stanislaus-Stockton , this 102 acre self-contained community features beautiful architecture on tree-lined streets in a secure campus setting. Located within Stockton’s Enterprise Zone, it’s a smart choice for business.

Leadership Stockton: Justice System Session Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union

Contact Dan Keyser Grupe Commercial Company (209) 473-6200 dkeyser@grupe.com

Special Thanks to: San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office

“We Do Windows”

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various entities working together to make Stockton a safe place

Window Replacement Patio Doors Glass Replacement

to live, work and play. Though the day was full, the information

Also specializing in custom remodels & new construction

Visit Our Showroom… 2233 Cherokee Rd. Stockton

Each year, the Leadership Stockton class looks forward to the Justice System session. This session gives the class a glimpse of the

Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty Storefront Commercial Residential

Class with Mayor Ann Johnston at the Yosemite Club 2/12/10

was valuable, and the class left with a greater understanding of our Senior & Veteran Discounts

Cal. Lic 284101 Bonded & Insured

local justice system. The day began with a warm welcome to the Sheriff ’s John Zunino Operations Center from Sheriff Steve Moore (Leadership Stockton Class of 1990), immediately followed by Deputy Chief Tammie Murrell (Leadership Stockton Class of 2001). Sheriff Moore provided an overview of the Sheriff Departments operation of the jail facility, and a glimpse of the myriad of other duties that fall under his department. The class was brought up to speed on the need of a new jail facility as well as the current status of the potential State Hospital Facility. Deputy Chief Murrell spoke about crime and the Stockton Police Department’s efforts to

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PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

combat this hot issue. She provided great statistics that show good progress was made in 2009, and the future looks encouraging. Following the briefing from the Sheriff and Deputy Chief, the class was educated in “Gangs and Guns” by

Timm Quinn: tquinn@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2960

continued on page 12

Conference & Visitors Bureau by: Wes Rhea

Retail Shopping Centers Senior Housing Medical Offices Industrial Facilities

Office Buildings Private Schools Churches Restaurants Hospitality

4917 Stoddard Road, Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 545-7505 â&#x20AC;˘ www.huffcon.com

From April 1st - 11th, Stockton will celebrate locally grown asparagus during the Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out. This event will kick off the month that ends with the 25th Anniversary Stockton Asparagus Festival, April 23-25. The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out invites Stockton area foodies and families to enjoy delicious dishes prepared with fresh, locally grown asparagus at participating restaurants throughout Stockton. The Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau created the Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out following the successful Stockton Restaurant Week. It was created to showcase locally grown asparagus and its use in local cuisine. Farm to Fork and Eat Locally Grown campaigns highlight the importance of eating fresh locally grown produce. Our partner, Zuckerman Farms will work with local restaurants to provide asparagus to their kitchens. Our most famous locally grown spear may be featured in appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks! Participating restaurants and their menus will be featured at www.DineOutStockton.com. Entrees will be individually priced or packaged in meal specials. Restaurants interested in participating can visit the website or call 337-2721.

Wes Rhea: wes@stocktonchamber.org 209.337.2721

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

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010

Sponsors

03/11 2010

March 11, 2010

REXP VI

The Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd Stockton, CA 95207 8:00am - 2:00pm greenteamsanjoaquin.com

Stockton

Come and experience everything REXPO VI has to offer: - Welcome by: Honorable Mayor Ann Johnston, City of Stockton - Over 60 green business exhibitors - 2 panel discussions: • “Going Green” This is How We Saved Money • REACON the Possibilities Expo and Panel Discussions are FREE to businesses and their employees.

Keynote Speaker Luncheon-Greening California $30-register at GreenTeamSanJoaquin.com - Keynote Speaker: Mark Leary, Deputy Director California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery - For Lunch Attendees: • Drawing for two $200 gas cards • A special gift for all attendees

FREE e-waste collection in the parking lot for the duration of the event! The first 50 people to donate a TV or computer monitor will receive a complimentary voucher to the keynote speaker luncheon during the event from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. (a $30.00 value)

Green Team San Joaquin Sponsors:

REACON Sponsors:

Green.edu Sponsors:

Buy Local, Buy Green Sponsors:

www.greenteamsanjoaquin.com

Yu Dstinati

Programs Department by: Frank Ferral

REXP

IS HERE!

Thursday March 11, 2010 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton Improving the quality of our business and physical environment in the San Joaquin Valley is important to all of us who reside here.

O N T HE

That is why the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce’s Green Team San Joaquin and Valley CAN (Clean Air Now) invite you to attend REXPO VI: Greening Main Street. Attend this free event to learn how businesses can incorporate energy-efficient methods, recycling, water conservation and clean air values into everyday operations to reduce their cost of doing business. In addition, the event will showcase businesses and services that proactively promote environmentally sustainable business practices. Valley business

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leaders are in the unique position to lead by example and demonstrate that environmental consciousness and business prosperity can go hand-in-hand. E-waste collection will run concurrently with REXPO VI in the Hilton Stockton parking lot. The first 50 people that donate TV’s or Computer Monitors will get vouchers for the keynote speaker luncheon (a $30.00 value) from 12:00-1:30.

Please join our honorable Mayor Ann Johnston for opening remarks that will

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jumpstart the conference to “save you green.”

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

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010 10

New Members

Liaison of the month John Paval - WSB Mortgage Services

Photographers Fritz Chin Photography, Inc. 2014 Pacific Ave. Stockton, CA

Honorable Mention Ana Golden - Ana Golden Insurance Services

Restaurants

Computer Hardware/ Software Supply

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar 209.943.2446 www.fritzchin.com

Insurance - Agents & Brokers

2659 March Ln. Stockton, CA

Powell’s Computers Service

209.952.9330 www.appleamerican.com

6530 Pacific Ave. #B Stockton, CA

209.478.5043 www.powellcomputers.com

Ciao Bella Italian Cuisine

Kevin Grumbling’s Farmers Insurance Agency

5646 N. Pershing Ave. 209.474.2100 Stockton, CA www.ciaobellastockton.com

906 Tommydon St. 209.478.5496 Stockton, CA www.farmersagent.com/kgrumbling

Soccer Team

Real Estate Port City Realty PO Box 7931 Stockton, CA

209.915.7489 www.portcityrealty.net

California Cougars 248 W. Fremont St. Stockton, CA

209.373.1550 www.californiacougars.net

The February 4 Mixer @ Valley Brew Company

From left to right: Rich McDonald and Gloria Blaine

From left to right: Haley Kusy, Deena Lucero, and Michael Reichgut

From left to right: Dr. Derron Lee, Olga Patterson, Greg Patterson, and Andrew Ysiano

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1.800.NAT.UNIV (628.8648) getinfo.nu.edu 11 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Events Cont’d from pg. 4

Leadership Stockton

Can’t wait for your invitation to arrive in the mail? Just give Timm

Cont’d from pg. 7

Sgt. Rodney Rego of the Stockton Police Department. Sgt. Rego’s

a call at 547-2960, and he’ll be happy to sign you up. Also, call today to

presentation was Gangs 101 for most of the class, providing a

have a spectacular sponsorship opportunity packet sent to you.

visual guide to identifying many Stockton gangs and the gang

continued on page 18

culture. Always a favorite with the class, this topic can be chilling and provides an unfiltered look at Stockton gangs. After lunch came the jail tour, what many consider the highlight of the day. The two hour tour of the French Camp facility included visiting the intake, women’s area, men’s area, administrative segregation,

Annika Sorenstam Sponsor: Food 4 Less/ Rancho San Miguel Fred Couples Sponsor: National University

Ricky Barnes Sponsor: Builders Exchange of Stockton Alcoholic Beverage Sponsor: Delta Sierra Beverage

medical clinic, and communications area. Many folks were involved in the success of the Justice System session. A big THANK YOU goes to the following: Sheriff Moore, Deputy Chief Murrell, and Sgt. Rego. Also, thanks to Sheriff Moore for the generous use of his facilities and his very helpful staff, especially Officer Kim de la Cruz (LS Class of ’08) for coordinating

As of 2/4/10

the jail tour. See us here next month as we recap the Community Serving Community session held on February 12th.

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010 12

COVER STORY

You Can Go Home Again

A revitalized Miracle Mile is drawing business owners back to their roots by: Patricia Kutza

Lisa Whirlow is a successful business

Then 1918: Miracle Mile area featured 2 grocery stores, 1 roadhouse, and 1 stable 1924: Pacific Avenue is named in honor of University of the Pacific’s relocation to Stockton 1924: Founder Joseph Plecarpo built a gas station at Cleveland Street and Pacific Avenue, launching the area

food setting—became part of the revitalized

owner with stores that could probably thrive

Pacific Avenue scene. “I am really proud to

in just about any location. But when she

be here,” says Whirlow, “and proud of my

decided to add another Whirlow’s Tossed

neighboring merchants. We are all trying to clean

& Grilled restaurant to her enterprise that

up this area and get business growing again.”

includes a Lincoln Center location, Whirlow listened to not only her business instincts but to her heart. “I chose to open my restaurant

Destination Row The neighborhood has responded very

on the Miracle Mile because it is the old

enthusiastically. “We get lots of traffic from

Stockton neighborhood where I grew up. I

folks in the neighborhood who stop by for

shopped here as a kid.”

dinner. You sense that they really want to support us, ” Whirlow says. Kellie Jacobs,

1940’s: Pacific Avenue Merchants Association formed by merchants from Harding Way to Castle Street

Stockton Savvy

&Now

Whirlow fondly remembers visiting those

agrees. Jacobs, whose Barley Wine label

local stores that, in the ‘50s and ‘60s, became

recently won a gold medal at the Great

synonymous with the Mile—places like the

American Beer Festival, has seen very positive

Brown House (department store), John Fall’s

changes happen in the 14 years she has owned

Clothing, and the Stockton Theater. “There

her company. “The Miracle Mile has evolved

was a drive-in too plus a very popular ice-

to be a really nice community center. In

cream store,” she recalls. As the century ended

fact, our cluster of restaurants has become a

however, the Miracle Mile had lost much of its

Stockton destination in itself.”

Location: Extends to Alpine and includes Harding Way from Lincoln to El Dorado Focus: Beautification, safety, recruiting businesses, oldfashioned community fun Events: Stagg High School Homecoming Parade, Annual Oktoberfest, Avenue Autumn Showcase, Halloween Costume Parade, UOP student-led Prowlin’ the Mile festival (May 1)

www.StocktonMiracleMile.com

13 PORT CALL

A third-generation Stockton native,

owner of the Valley Brew Company—a restaurant and microbrewery on the Mile—

luster with many businesses closing or moving to other locations. It was Whirlow the savvy investor who

A Sense of Place Jacobs’ pride is echoed in the words of

recognized that the Mile, after a period of

Arnold Chin, who assumed ownership of Fritz

decline, was reinventing itself. Once again it

Chin Photography back in 1997 when his

was becoming a very lively area and in 2009

father Fritz Chin retired from the shop he had

Whirlow on the Mile—a new restaurant that

started on the Mile in 1973. “I grew up on the

features fresh food made to order in a fast-

Mile and there are still people around today

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

who remember when I would sell candy bars in the neighborhood,” the junior Chin recalls. Rapid adoption of technology has changed the photography business as a whole, says Chin, and their business has evolved to meet these changes. “We have a website now and we focus primarily on our specialty, portrait photography.” The Mile has evolved too, he says, and its string of local small businesses has helped the area maintain its unique sense of place.

Room for the New Having gone to school in Chico as well as the University of the Pacific, fourth-generation Stockton resident Kevin Hernandez recognized that part of the Mile’s unique sense of place is influenced by the cosmopolitan atmosphere that a university presence provides. He decided to introduce a new concept to the Mile – a lounge where folks can hang out, enjoying alcoholic spirits, appetizers, desserts, and great music. Opening in March, Ave on the Mile will join a number of businesses his family operates in the Stockton area. “I feel it is a nice niche and will offer a comforting atmosphere to our neighborhood” Hernandez says.

The Miracle Mile has evolved to be a really nice community center. In fact, our cluster of restaurants has become a Stockton destination in itself.

A Memorable (and Walkable) Experience Attracting quality merchants like

Photo by: Arturo Vera Photography

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010 14

Hernandez to the Mile is one of the goals for the Miracle Mile Improvement District, says its president Kevin Dougherty, owner of First Commercial Realty located on the Mile. The District Committee, comprised of local business owners and property owners, is tasked with making the common areas of the Mile—its landscaping, lighting and parking areas—inviting to customers and potential business owners. “We’ve replaced old trees with sycamore trees to create a canopy that enhances the ambiance of our area, made parking lots more userfriendly, and increased lighting for safety purposes,” Dougherty explains. Long-standing ties to the nearby University of the Pacific (UOP) campus makes the Mile businesses inextricably ‘tied Miracle Mile Business Spotlight

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15 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

COVER STORY

to the hip.’ he says. A good time to see that relationship in

The Stockton Art League (SAL) is an artists' co-op, exhibiting and selling artwork, such as oil and watercolor paintings, photography, sculptures, woodwork and jewelry. The gallery hosts monthly artist receptions and art demonstrations open to the public. The League engages in cultural exchange with other organizations involved in promoting creative arts within the community. Established in 1936, SAL was gifted a permanent home in 2001 at its current location, thanks to the benevolence of Elsie May Goodwin. SAL will sponsor its 56th Annual Juried Exhibition at the Haggin Museum in September. In 2011, The League will celebrate its 75th anniversary. 1902 Paciﬁc Avenue Stockton, CA 95204 209.466.6604 www.stocktonartleague.org

action is April 11, 2010 when the Brubeck Festival comes to UOP. “We’re celebrating our 4th annual Jazz on the Mile in partnership with the Brubeck Institute. We have an outdoor Jazz concert at Tuxedo Court and Pacific Avenue that complements and closes the Brubeck Festival,” says Dougherty. “Combine what’s happening on campus and on the Mile and you’ve got the makings for a really memorable event,” he says. It is turning out to be the perfect formula for enticing visitors to return to the Mile and attracting successive generations of business owners to return to their Miracle Mile roots.

Miracle Mile Business Spotlight

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010 16

One of America’s most beautiful campuses A top-ranked private university Hundreds of concerts and lectures NCAA Division 1 sports Proud to be in Stockton since 1924 STOCKTON

•

SAN FRANCISCO

www.Pacific.edu •

SACRAMENTO

Events Cont’d from pg. 12

State of the City 2010 has moved to May! If you’re ever in doubt that we live in a great community, just attend our annual State of the City 2010! This year the State of the City will be held May 13th at the Port of Stockton. Sponsored by the City of Stockton and the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, this event features exhibits showcasing the critical and inspiring services available to you. Mayor Ann Johnston will hold her second State of the City address and will share the many exciting ideas and visions she has to better our great city. The day begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Port of Stockton, allowing you to get an early start visiting the exhibits and exhibitors ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have. At noon, lunch will be catered by Outback Steakhouse followed by speaker presentations. After the presentations, exhibits will stay open until 2:30 p.m. Invite your clients, friends and neighbors to join you so you’ll all be in on the reasons we’re so proud of our great city. Sponsorships are still available, contact Timm Quinn at 209.547.2770 or tquinn@stocktonchamber.org.

Platinum: A.G. Spanos Companies Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Bekins/Pacific Storage Co. Big Valley Ford Lincoln Mercury Builders Exchange of Stockton California Water Service Co. City of Stockton Delta Sierra Beverage - Bud Light Lime Financial Center Credit Union Food 4 Less/ Rancho San Miguel Green Team San Joaquin Grupe Commercial Company Herum Crabtree Humphreys College J.R. Simplot Company Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel National University

Neumiller & Beardslee Oak Valley Community Bank Park West Place/Pacifica Retail Management Port of Stockton San Joaquin Delta College San Joaquin Magazine San Joaquin Partnership, Inc. St. Joseph’s Medical Center Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau Stockton Ports Baseball Club Stockton East Water District The Record/San Joaquin Media Group United Way of San Joaquin County University of Phoenix University of the Pacific University Advancement Wells Fargo Advisors

Silver:

Arturo Vera Photography Devcon Construction, Inc. R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc.

• • • •

Business Records Storage Media/Vital Records Vault Certified Document Destruction Document Imaging Services

Mike Long, Director of Marketing

209-320-6618

email: mlong@pacific-records.com www.pacific-records.com

As of 2/4/10

Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764

www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org

MAR2010 18

News Briefs

Submission Guidelines: News Briefs must be submitted before the 1st of each month to schamber@stocktonchamber.org. Please put “PORT O CALL” in the subject line. Submissions must be no longer than 50 words total and should include contact information. News Briefs will be included on a space available basis and may be edited for content.

The Stockton Chorale will perform the choral works of

and other helpful information to close the communication gap on

Mendelssohn’s “Lobgesang” on March 19, 7:30 p.m. and March

March 3. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. at Elkhorn Country Club.

21, 3 p.m. The concerts will also include works performed by the

For more information visit www.StocktonWomensNetwork.org,

Master Chorale and the Youth Chorale. The double performance will be held at the Quail Lakes Baptist Church. Call 209-951-6454

Sexual Harassment and Workplace Violence Prevention training,

for tickets.

presented by Gary Waters Management Consulting at the CSU-Stanislaus Stockton Center. Additional information and

Oak Valley Community Bank announced the promotion of

registration at www.GaryWaters.net or call 209-815-9760.

Ron Davenport to Vice President Mid-Valley Area Manager. Ron has 33 years of banking experience and has worked in

Greater Stockton Employer Advisory Council (GSEAC)

the Central Valley since 1988. He specializes in business

announces its monthly meeting featuring Eric Rood, Labor

develop.m.ent and relationship management. For more

Commissioner’s Office with the topic of “Just Say NO to

information visit www.ovcb.com.

Investigators Who Demand $$$”. Friday, March 19 at 7:15am at the Stockton Golf & Country Club. RSVP by calling Colleen

The Stockton Women’s Network will host Elizabeth Kearney

Martin at 209-825-2723.

presenting the 10 rules of cross-generational communication

CEO’s Column Cont’d from pg. 6

Board, staff and I warned and pleaded with the Governor’s office

not meet head-on the issues he is bringing upon all of us. Had the

and leaders of both Houses of the legislature to properly plan for the

State Government and CDCR not been so dysfunctional, maybe

coming of a prison crisis.” Both Mr. Kelso and I can say together,

we would have never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Kelso under

“we told you so”.

these circumstances, but only had the chance to know him as a

In another part of Mr. Maclachian’s blog he said of Mr. Kelso: “Transparency has been another issue Kelso has pursued in his writing, arguing that the courts system should be more open to

McGeorge (Pacific) Law School professor. I would have enjoyed that so much more and so would have the entire community. I want to thank all the people who have let us know that they

outside scrutiny.” This is where we have the biggest issue with the

understand we know we cannot stop the prison hospital, nor have

court receiver and CDCR. This is where I take personal aim at his

we ever promoted that, but only been fighting hard to do what is

hypocrisy (what is good for the goose is not good for the gander!)

best for Stockton and San Joaquin County!

If he truly, truly believes that then why has he treated Stockton and San Joaquin County they way he has for over two years? Completely running over the cares, concerns, and welfare of our community by backroom deals, not being forthcoming on documents, and having last minute “feel good” meetings that were meant to placate us and

19 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

One more time: please go to www.visitstockton.org. I know you will be happy you did!

Calendar

March 2010 Highlights 3/4 - Chamber Mixer - 5:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. @ Residence Inn by Marriott 3/11 - REXPO VI - 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ Hilton Stockton

UNIVERSAL SERVICE RECYCLING BUYER OF ALL SCRAP METALS WE PAY THE HIGHEST PRICES FOR: -

STEEL, COPPER, BRASS, ALUMINUM, ETC.

E-WASTE SUCH AS TV’S, COMPUTER MONITORS, COMPUTER TOWERS (guaranteed destruction of hard drives), FAXES, PRINTERS, ETC.

CRV ALUMINUM CANS, PLASTIC, AND GLASS BOTTLES

Chamber Networking Mixer - 5:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. @ Residence Inn by Marriott

Liaison Meeting - 12 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

REXPO VI - 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ Hilton Stockton

Government Relations Council - 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room Leadership Stockton Health Care Session 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. @ Kaiser Permanente

Ambassador Quarterly Luncheon - 11:30 a.m. @ Ciao Bella Italian Cuisine

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

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

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

BEA - 3:30 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room

Don’t Miss! April Chamber Mixer Thursday, April 1, 5:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. @ the Stockton Ports

BINS AVAILABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL SCRAP CUSTOMERS OPEN Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:15pm Sat. 8:00am-2:15pm 3200 South El Dorado Street Stockton, CA 95206 209-944-9555 Fax 209-944-5552 www.usrscrap.com

21 PORT CALL

Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce

Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info

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