PORT CALL GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Vol. 58 No. 2
www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012
DeltaFusion Is Back Business Awards Luncheon 2012
Leadership Stockton Empowering Stockton’s Community PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 461 STOCKTON CA
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PORT CALL
13
Leadership Stockton
CONTENTS From Your President
4
From Your CEO
5
Events
6
Leadership Stockton
7
6
Business Awards Luncheon 2012
Convention & Visitors Bureau 8 Programs and Public Policy Department
10
New Members
11
Cover Story
13
Ribbon Cuttings
15
News Briefs
16
Calendar
17
DeltaFusion Is Back
8
Don’t Miss! Networking Mixer Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton June 7, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
When asked why my business is a member of the Chamber, the answer was simple. While the Chamber does provide networking opportunities, the reason to be a member involves so much more. Our Chamber is a tireless advocate for business in our community. Without the Chamber, the voice for business would not be heard. If business people through the Chamber do not work together to promote a better business climate, then who will? A strong business environment means not just more profit, but a stronger community and a higher quality of life, which is something that should be of interest to everyone.
Steven D. Crabtree, Financial Vice President of the Chamber Herum Crabtree
PORT CALL Official publication of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Serving the Greater Stockton area business community since 1901. CHAMBER OFFICERS PRESIDENT Debbie Armstrong, Old Republic Title Company SR. VICE PRESIDENT Gary J. Long, Gary J. Long Jewelers FINANCIAL VICE PRESIDENT Steven Crabtree, Herum Crabtree VICE PRESIDENT Blain Bibb, ServiceMaster Building Maintenance VICE PRESIDENT Judith Buethe, Judith Buethe Communications IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Rick Goucher, C B Richard Ellis Commercial Real Estate CHAMBER DIRECTORS Stephen Barney, F&M Bank Michael Cera, SMG/Stockton Arena/Bob Hope Theatre Donna DeMartino, San Joaquin Regional Transit District Dan Durst, Durst Contract Interiors Pat Filippone, Stockton Ports Baseball Club Lewis Gale, Eberhardt School of Business Clint Harless, Stockton Auto Glass/Quick’s Glass Service Dan Keyser, Grupe Commercial Company Kenneth Levy, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Sonya Morgan, External Resources, Inc. Darryle Oakman, San Joaquin County Rental Property Association Bakul Patel, Dorfman Pacific Tina Williams, Pacific Gas & Electric Company Diane Vigil, Dameron Hospital Foundation Bob Young, Stockton Golf & Country Club CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Douglass W. Wilhoit, Jr.
209.547.2766
PROGRAM & PUBLIC POLICY DIRECTOR/ BEA Frank Ferral 209.547.2763
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE GNOME!
SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR Heidi Altamirano
209.547.2764
OPERATIONS/FINANCE DIRECTOR Sandy Dwyer 209.547.2770 MEMBERSHIP SALES Matt Anderson
209.337.2723
SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD. Timm Quinn 209.547.2960 SCAP COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mikki Gilbert 209.337.2730 SCAP-SE COORDINATOR Michael Morales
209.337.2716
BEA/ SCAP ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Karla Gonzalez 209.547.2770 RECEPTIONIST/ CUSTOMER SERVICE Mai Vang 209.547.2770
SATURDAY, JUNE 30 – 7:05 PM
Doug Wilhoit Garden Gnome Giveaway Be one first 1,000 to Banner Island Ballpark and get the much talked about and highly sought after, Doug Wilhoit Garden Gnome.
Presented by
Purchase tickets using promo code “Wilhoit” and proceeds will benefit local non-profits
PUBLISHER Stockton Chamber of Commerce 209.547.2770 GRAPHIC DESIGN Never Boring Design Associates 209.526.9136 ADVERTISING Kristin Bowker
209.423.4940
PRINTING Snyder Parks
209.466.9026
MAILING Snyder Parks
209.466.9026
Greater
For Tickets Call 644-1900 GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 445 W. Weber Avenue, Suite 220, Stockton, CA 95203 209.547.2770 fax 209.466.5271 schamber@stocktonchamber.org
From Your President... by: Debbie Armstrong
Hello to all my fellow Chamber members. With my
month, we celebrate Leadership Stockton’s 30th Anniversary. Twenty-nine years ago, the members of the Greater Stockton
year as Chamber President
Chamber of Commerce led a committee of people to Denver to
coming to a close, I cannot
review a concept in developing community leadership, the result of
express enough how truly
that trip was Leadership Stockton. The idea that we could transform
blessed I am to have had this
communities by developing our own leaders still holds true today.
experience. I have met so
Since its inception, more than 700 participants have graduated
many wonderful people who
from the program and countless organizations benefit from the
care about Stockton and what
Leadership Stockton program. To get involved and become a
our future holds, as well as
Stockton Leader, contact the Chamber today!
so many of you who see the bright future we can attain with hard work and perseverance. Throughout my journey, with every passing day, I have learned a
Please ALWAYS remember that this is your home and your MONEY should stay here, so shop local. May God truly bless all of you and our great home Stockton!
little more about all of you; there is a lot of work to do and we will get it done, one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. This
OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK
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Phil and Jan Tilbury of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms with Frank Middleton, VP Commercial Lender, 209.844.7563 “Oak Valley understands the importance of taking care of their customers and helping them find solutions. They’re a true partner with a genuine desire to help our businesses grow.� – Phil and Jan Tilbury, owners of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms
Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches
1.866.844.7500 t www.ovcb.com www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012
4
From Your CEO... by: Doug Wilhoit
By the time you receive the June Port
VOTE gave Rutherford B. Hayes the Presidency of the United
O Call you may have already voted by
States; in 1876, ONE VOTE changed France from a Monarchy to
absentee ballot or are preparing to
a Republic; in 1923, ONE VOTE gave Adolph Hitler leadership of
vote in person at your polling place.
the Nazi Party; and in 1960, a ONE VOTE change in each precinct
Congratulations if you have/are
in Illinois would have defeated John F. Kennedy. So if you do not
exercising your right and obligation
think that YOUR VOTE makes a difference, please reconsider and
to vote and did so with the full
vote with purpose, thinking, gratitude and proper and thorough
examination of the candidates and
research as you exercise a right so many TRUE AMERICANS
ballot measures that will be in the
have given their lives to protect, and keep in mind that there are
best interest of all. By that, I mean
so many around the world who do not have the right to vote and
do not just vote with emotion
suffer the consequences for the violation of a basic human right –
or political bias; look deeply into the candidates/ballot measures abilities to really
FREEDOM from oppression! The weekend of Mother’s Day saw the new Stockton Police Chief and his street crime task force take on the problem head on! He
get the job done, who is
and the men and women who put themselves on the line are to be
backing them and are they
commended and thanked!
backing them for the benefit of the entire population of the city, state or nation or are they just looking out for themselves and their own benefit!
In my March 2012 column, I wrote the following about reducing crime in Stockton: “It must start in the homes, families and neighborhoods to really make it work! It must be known and shouted in neighborhoods across this fine city that those who affiliate with gangs or commit crimes are nothing more than thugs,
Each and every vote
cowards and irresponsible jerks (same as those who know who
counts and it saddens me
commit the crimes and are just as bad for not reporting them to
to see the low percentage
law enforcement) and we will not put up with it anymore.”
of LEGAL voters who turn
I have a true story that illustrates the cowards who are a very
out each election cycle. From my past elected official experience,
small part of our community, but are causing the vast amount of
I’ve seen that some of those who do not vote on a regular basis can
the problems: Over the past several years, my parents have spent
sometimes be the most vocal as to what is going wrong without
time in one of our fine local hospitals and, on several occasions
lifting a finger to help fix the community ills. Again I state: “If you
upon visiting, I have met an employee who knew I served on the
are not part of the solution, then you are part of the problem!”
Youthful Offender Parole Board and, due to her far past gang
Since 1979, I have had in my office the following reminder
affiliations, would tell me of her progress. After my father’s passing,
of the importance of each and every vote: in 1645, ONE VOTE
my mother was in the hospital a few weeks ago and I ran into this
gave Oliver Cromwell control of England; ONE VOTE caused
employee who has now been promoted due to hard work. She has
Charles I of England to be executed; in 1776, ONE VOTE gave
also “been clean” of gangs and raising her family to be law abiding
America the English language instead of German; in 1845, ONE
and responsible. She relayed the following story, in writing to me:
VOTE brought Texas into the Union; in 1868, ONE VOTE saved
On 5-1-12 we made a police report: My two sons (A) 15 years
President Andrew Johnson from impeachment; in 1876, ONE
old & (B) 13 years old and two of their friends
5
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
continued on page 9
Events
by: Heidi Altamarino Business Awards Luncheon 2012 Congratulations to all our Business Award recipients. On June 7, at the Hilton Stockton, we will be recognizing: • Business Person of the Year: Raymond Ross Smith, EZ Network Systems • Small Business Person of the Year: Gary Hansen, G-Force Productions • Business Manager of the Year: George Lerner, Port of Stockton • Business Employee of the Year: David Hurst, Health Plan of San Joaquin • P3 Stewardship Award, Policies Practices Purchasing: Diamond Foods, Inc. • SBA Minority Small Business Champion of the Year: Nate McBride, • NEC Small Business Development Center, San Joaquin Delta College.
These exceptional honorees will be recognized for their
The Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes the following companies for their year round support of the Chamber Taking Care of Business Sponsors 2011-2012 A.G. Spanos Companies Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Builders Exchange of Stockton California Water Service Co. F&M Bank Financial Center Credit Union Grupe Commercial Company Kaiser Permanente Lincoln Center Neumiller & Beardslee Oak Valley Community Bank
Pacific Records Management R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. San Joaquin Delta College St. Joseph’s Medical Center Stockton East Water District Sutter Gould Medical Foundation The Record/San Joaquin Media Group United Way of San Joaquin County University of the Pacific
achievements and contributions to our community. We will also be honoring our yearly Volunteer Hall of Fame award winners
helps fund committees and programs designed to keep
and 25-year Chamber members: Advanced Mini Storage,
Greater Stockton businesses healthy and growing. Committees
Assistance League of Stockton, Carpetland, Ganzer & Williams,
supported include the Manufacturers Industrial Distribution
San Joaquin County Department of Aging, Sierra Veterinary
Roundtable and other business development programs.
Clinic and Stenson’s Engraving & Gifts. Luncheon tickets are $30 per person by May 30, and $35 each thereafter. For more information, call 209.547.2770.
Business Awards Luncheon 2012 Sponsors Gold Sponsor: Kaiser Permanente
R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. San Joaquin Delta College Sutter Gould Medical Foundation
Silver Sponsors: F&M Bank Hilton Stockton
Bronze Sponsor: United Way of San Joaquin County
Sponsors receive recognition at such events as the Industrial Technology Barbecue, State of the City, Annual Golf Tournament, Chamber Tradeshow & Showcase Mixer and Chamber Business Awards. Popular Awards programs such as ATHENA Award are also included, as well as the Annual Installation Dinner. Advantages Available to Taking Care of Business Supporters
Sponsoring companies typically select several options from the events line up. The Chamber allows its members to wisely choose a yearlong program that meets their marketing,
Taking Care of Business Program 2012-2013
consumer exposure and community involvement goals. Package
The Taking Care of Business Program offers our member
prices enable sponsors to select from several marketing and
businesses a wealth of marketing and sponsorship opportunities
promotional opportunities at a significant savings.
for the upcoming year. This popular program was created to
For more information on stretching your marketing dollars
give Chamber members an excellent way to receive exposure
through Taking Care of Business, call Heidi Altamirano, Events
throughout the year at a dramatic discount off normal pricing.
Director, at 209.547.2764, or e-mail heidi@stocktonchamber.org.
Taking Care of Business Sponsors Help Fund Key Chamber Programs
Taking Care of Business also ties closely to the Chamber’s work in business retention and development activities, and
@
Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764
Annual Installation Dinner 2012 One of the highlights of our year is the Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner. It’s the perfect www.stocktonchamber.org
continued on page 10
JUNE2012
6
Become a Certified Green Business! Leadership Stockton Save money & gain customers by:
by: Timm Quinn
Reducing waste Conserving water and energy Protecting public health Using recycled-content in your products
Leadership Stockton Health Care Session Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union
www.GreenTeamSanJoaquin.com Session Sponsor: Health Plan of San Joaquin SMALL BUSINESS Health careH continues to beW a topic impacts each AZARDOUS ASTEthat DISPOSAL * and
Affordable Hazardous Management for Your Business every one of us, and eachWaste year Leadership Stockton takes a look A Program of San Joaquin County Public Works at the challengeswww.SJCrecycle.org and successes in health throughout San (209)care 468-3066 i Low cost way to safely dispose of hazardous materials. Joaquin County. (Costs depend on your waste types.)
Leadership Stockton Accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 Class Leadership Stockton, California’s oldest adult community leadership program is accepting applications for the class of 201213. Tuition for the 11-month program is $900. Applications and class schedule can be found at www.leadershipstockton.com or by calling 209.547.2770. Deadline to apply is June 15, 2012.
i Documentation that you Plan properly manage hazardous waste. The day began at the Health of San Joaquin offices on i Assurance that the material will be disposed of properly. *Conditionally Exempt Small Manthey Road with a panel discussion withQuantity CarolGenerators Farron,(CESQG)
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, prepares the next
of Lodi Memorial Hospital; Mike Ricks, COO of St. Joseph’s
generation of men and women who will assume leadership
Medical Center; Dr. Brad Reinke, Chief of Staff at Dameron We also accept universal and electronic waste. Hospital; Dr. Moses Elam, Physician in Chief of Kaiser
roles in the greater Stockton community. Established as the
Green Your Bottom Line Permanente; David of San Joaquin General withCulberson, ProductCEO Stewardship! Economic benefits abound: Hospital; and John Hackworth, CEO of the reduced operating costs, energy savings, reduced disposal costs, the creation of green jobs.
Health Plan of
San Joaquin. The panelists gave a glimpse into each of their
www.CalPSC.org
organizations and then shared their opinions on theToxics state ofit Back! Design it Green | Make it Clean | Conserve Resources | Reduce | Reuse | Eliminate | Take
Leadership Stockton, a program founded in 1981 by the
first community leadership program in California, Leadership Stockton has graduated 701 community members, many of whom now serve on local boards, commissions and in other community leadership roles. Leadership Stockton participants embark on a journey that
health care with the class. The class then asked many questions.
puts them in touch with the greater Stockton community, as
Each panelist was very open and the discussion was very lively
well as each other, and develops their personal leadership skills.
and informative.
Participants are also involved in addressing the needs of our
Following the panel was Dr. Dale Bishop, Medical Director at the Health Plan of San Joaquin. Dr. Bishop explained to the class
community through hands-on service projects that focus on solutions to real community problems.
what Health Plan of San Joaquin does, and how they do it. The
This 11-month community leadership program offers
Health Plan was very generous in allowing the class to use their
participants an opportunity to increase their community
wonderful facilities.
knowledge, civic network and service to the community.
After a great lunch, the class heard from Becky Gould (LS Class of ’89), Deputy Director of San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services. Becky spoke to the class about what Behavioral
Participants are exposed to key issues facing Stockton and the surrounding region. Selection involves a written application and personal
Services means and all the great work they do to help those in
interview. The selection process will identify approximately 26
the community and make it a better place to live.
applicants to be chosen to attend the program; representing a
The day ended with a tour of San Joaquin General Hospital. The class split up into two groups and got an all-access tour of the wonderful facility. A BIG thank you to all the speakers who took the time out of
cross-section of the greater Stockton community. For information or an application visit www.leadershipstockton.com or call Timm Quinn at 209.547.2960 or email tquinn@stocktonchamber.org.
their busy schedules to come and speak with the class. Thank you to the Health Plan of San Joaquin for hosting the session and to Dan Natividad (LS Class ’09) for all your help in coordinating the day. 7
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
@
Timm Quinn: tquinn@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2960
Convention & Visitors Bureau by: Wes Rhea
A Unique Art and Cultural Event Returns to Victory Park on June 30 DeltaFusion is a community celebration of the natural and cultural diversity of Stockton and the San Joaquin Delta region. Giant puppets, music and scores of community performers will join in to tell the story of where we are and why we came here. Join the fun on Saturday, June 30, in Victory Park. Giant puppets come to life in a parade around the park followed by a pageant. More cultural and musical performances will continue throughout the day. Don’t miss this food, fun and art-filled event. Admission is free. Conceived in 2011 and sponsored by the University of the Pacific in partnership with the Haggin Museum and the Cultural Heritage Council of San Joaquin County, this event is supported in part by grants. For more information about the community workshops and June 30 event, call Joanna Albala at 209.470.6980 or email jalbala@pacific.edu.
@
Wes Rhea: wes@visitstockton.org 209.938.1555
Be sure to become a fan on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Stockton.CVB
www.visitstockton.org
JUNE2012
8
“Summer 2nd Friday” Downtown Stockton Art Events!
FRIDAY | JUNE 8 | 5-7pm FRIDAY | JULY13 | 5-7pm FRIDAY | AUGUST 10 | 5-7pm
Artists demonstrations and musical/dance performances along the route will connect the host galleries and other venues with a “family festival” atmosphere, including children’s activities, portrait-sketching, chalk art, spoken-word, ceramics, jewelry and much more.
PARTICIPANTS/LOCATIONS
Dan Mello
Marc O’Neil
1016 14th Street, Modesto, CA l wintonireland.com Since 1913 l Lic # 0596517
CEO
Tidewater AT The County Administration Building San Joaquin County Law Library The Mexican Heritage Center The Pride Center Fathers and Families The Downtown Stockton Alliance
Cont’d from pg. 5
were walking through the park when they were approached by
idiotic and cowardly, but so are those who know them but do not
a gang member. The gang member asked the boys if they were
come forward! I will be looking for that car, and when I see it, I
from a gang, but they can’t remember the gang name. Son (A)
will report it to the fine men and women of the Stockton
told him they don’t do that! The gang member walked away and
Police Department.
called someone. A couple of minutes later a car came with three men inside. They hopped out of their car and approached son (A) and one of them asked him if he was “messing with his brother.” My son told him no, but the guy began hitting on son (A) and another pulled out a knife and warned him not to fight back. One of the other gang members flashed a gun at son (B) and his friends when they were trying to call me. All the gang members ended up jumping my son (A). Then they left. Thank God they stopped. The descriptions of the men were three Hispanics and one White male who was the driver. They were driving a green four door Honda with dents all around, some paint missing to where you could see silver, tinted windows with no rims!” Someone knows who they are for COWARDS like to brag so I rest my case that not only are the perpetrators sick, despicable, 9
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
Programs and Public Policy Department by: Frank Ferral Green Team San Joaquin Member Making Headlines On March 29, VIPs from around California met in Stockton at the San Joaquin County Office of Education to celebrate the completion of their 500-kilowatt photovoltaic carport project. This is the largest, educational solar photovoltaic installation in
$50,000 in support from Solar City, the contractor, which included five, level II electric vehicle charging stations, the first of their kind in the county. Local auto dealers brought electric vehicles, including the Nissan Leaf, a Chevrolet Volt and an E-Mega manufactured in
the county and will be used by teachers and students in Venture
Stockton by Electric Vehicles International, one of the industry
Academy’s two newest Career Technical Educational programs:
partners of the Clean Transportation Technologies Academy.
the New Energy Academy and the Clean Transportation Technologies Academy, which open this fall.
Special visitors included the California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Torlakson; Ezra Garrett and Leah Casey,
The project is funded with a Qualified Zone Academy Bond
of PG&E; Mary Spruill, Executive Director of the NEED Project;
(QZAB), which requires an educational component. To meet this
Glen Kizer, of the Foundation for Environmental Education and
requirement, students in two green sector academies will track the
several elected officials and their representatives.
solar production data, perform energy audits, plan and implement
There was even a Tesla Roadster brought to the dedication
energy conservation action plans and become energy ambassadors
ceremony by a local owner. The Tesla owner was kind enough
to the community.
to provide rides to students and teachers, and even gave
The project was supported by a $200,000 gift from PG&E and
EVENTS
Superintendent Torlakson a ride!
Cont’d from pg. 6
opportunity to thank our hard working and dedicated board
No-host cocktails begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:45
members and committee chairs for their exceptional contribution
p.m. Reservations are required and space is limited. Sponsorships
to our organization. On Thursday, June 21, we’ll gather at
are still available. For more information, call Heidi Altamirano at
Stockton Golf & Country Club to thank Debbie Armstrong with
209.547.2764, or e-mail heidi@stocktonchamber.org.
Old Republic Title Company for her outstanding performance as Chamber President from 2011-2012, and to welcome Gary Long with Gary J. Long Jewelers as our 2012-2013 President. The evening will include an installation ceremony and the presentation of awards.
Annual Installation Dinner 2012 Sponsors Platinum Sponsors: F&M Bank Grupe Commercial Company Kaiser Permanente
Gold Sponsors: Bank of Agriculture & Commerce Financial Center Credit Union Lincoln Center Neumiller & Beardslee San Joaquin Delta College St. Joseph’s Medical Center
@
Stockton East Water District The Record/San Joaquin Media Group United Way of San Joaquin County University of the Pacific
Silver Sponsors: Builders Exchange of Stockton R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation
For more info, contact Frank Ferral at fferral@stocktonchamber.org
www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012 10
New Members Business Machines/Copying Machines, Supplies & Service A – TEC 1220 N. Union Street, Stockton 209.465.5606 www.atecofficesolutions.com
Warehouses Storage & Distribution/Transportation
For more information on becoming a new member, please call Matt Anderson at 209.547.2770. Please allow up to 90 days for your listing to show.
Photographers/ Photographers Commercial & Aerial/Photographers - Corporate & Special Events Captivating Photos
Tube-Dude 5910 Landview Drive, Stockton 941.650.5826 www.tube-dude.com
4304 Cruden Street, Stockton 209.406.1845 www.captivatingphotos.net
Insurance
Allen Distribution
DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Agency Inc.
4727 Fite Court, Stockton 717.258.7743 www.allendistribution.com
1901 W. Kettleman Lane, Lodi 209.340.5400
Legal Services
www.dibu.com
Fuel Policies/ Non-profit
Almost Free Legal Clinic
Fueling California
343 E. Main Street #702, Stockton 209.323.2614
1017 L Street, #408, Sacramento 916.204.6715 www.fuelingcalifornia.org
Legal Services/ Tax Consultants/ Estate Planning
Lighting Specialists/Planting Equipment/Planting Products
Beattie & Aghazarian, LLP
Homegrown Indoor Garden Supply
3031 W. March Lane #211W, Stockton 209.222.3686 www.legacy-law-group.com
681-A Grider Way, Stockton 209.477.4447 www.bestinhydroponics.com
Physical Therapy/ Occupational Health Pine Street Physical & Occupational Therapy 2357 W. March Lane, Stockton 209.477.9300 www.pinestreetpt.com
11 PORT CALL
Advertising & Marketing
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
Dentists Village Dental Care 1710 E. March Lane #2B, Stockton 209.474.1000 www.villagedentalcarestockton.com
www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012 12
COVER STORY
Leadership Stockton Empowering Stockton’s Community By Justin Souza
Denver in the early days. “The Denver
educational community, all balanced with
of members of the Greater Stockton
Leadership program was more geared to
hands-on sessions where class members
Chamber of Commerce traveled to
grooming people to run for office,” said
get immersed in the daily realities of the
Denver, Colorado to review a creative
Wilhoit. “But early on we identified that
session’s subject. “Participants don’t just
concept in developing community
developing community leaders doesn’t
learn where help is needed, they learn to
leadership. The concept: to empower
necessarily mean grooming elected
identify where their help can do the most
up-and-coming community members
officials. Empowering the community
good for their community,” said Wilhoit.
to make effective, positive changes for
base is more important because it’s the
Making a Difference
Thirty-one years ago, a handful
everyday citizens working to help
their area by providing them an understanding of their region’s challenges, assets and infrastructure. This concept developed into Leadership Stockton, the first continuous leadership program west of the Rockies and the prototype for many such programs throughout California. Since its foundation, more than 700
I attribute a lot of my success to the confidence I built and the partnerships I made in Leadership Stockton.
people have graduated from Leadership
-Joelle Gomez
Stockton’s immersive 11-month program
Graduates of the Leadership Stockton program say that the lessons don’t end with the 11 whole-day sessions scheduled once per month from August to June. Each year’s class also includes a retreat which helps participants to bond and is capped off by a major yearly project to help a local nonprofit. Last year, the graduates pitched in to help the Transitional Learning Center (TLC) accomplish a number of goals,
with a firm foundation from which to
people that make the
including supplying coats to children
make a real and lasting difference in the
biggest difference.”
in need, providing resources to
community. Over the years, the nonprofit
According to Wilhoit,
enable two field trips and giving the
program has expanded into a remarkable
Leadership Stockton was designed to
facility a major facelift by updating the
course that connects community leaders
provide candidates a 360-degree look at
Center’s landscaping. This year’s class
with essential resources and teaches them
the Greater Stockton area. Graduates get
worked to revamp Pixie Woods and
how to set, pursue and achieve their goals.
a wide view of the issues and resources
prepare it for its May 5 opening.
Chamber CEO Doug Wilhoit was
of the community, with informative
According to Joelle Gomez, Executive
one of the program’s founders, and
lectures from experts across a huge
Director of the Women’s Center of San
has remained an instrumental voice in
variety of industries, including elected
Joaquin County, Leadership Stockton
directing Leadership Stockton through
leaders in the government, the CEOs of
was an eye opening experience. “When
the years, including in differentiating
major companies, the Directors of local
I signed up for the 1994-1995 class, I
Stockton’s program from Leadership
nonprofits and essential members of the
thought I already knew Stockton, but it
13 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
ended up being one of the most impactful
meet people who are in those positions
scenes to serve the public. “Being a part
experiences of my life. I still get so much
and faced with those challenges, it gives
of a Leadership program—in any city—is
from those relationships that I made.
you a deeper understanding of the issue
something every citizen should consider.
I attribute a lot of the success of our
and the challenges that service providers
After completing the program, I definitely
agency—and my own success—to the
in Stockton face.”
have more respect for the breadth of
confidence I built and the partnerships I
Spreading Leadership
people involved.”
made in Leadership Stockton.”
Since its first sessions back in
With over 700 graduates so far,
1981, Leadership Stockton’s model of
Leadership Stockton’s alumni list reads like
Stockton, “teaches people in the
fostering community leaders has spread
a who’s who of the Stockton area. “There
community how they can step up and
throughout the State. Many long-running
have been so many people who have taken
become leaders. What we could do in
Leadership programs in major areas
Leadership Stockton to heart,” said Wilhoit.
our own disciplines and how we can get
including Sacramento and Modesto to
“They know that this isn’t just a résumé
involved in others. [The program] helps
Fresno and Bakersfield have patterned
builder, this is meant to help Stockton.
you get out of your comfort zone, meet
their programs after Leadership Stockton.
And they’re all winners in my book.”
Gomez added that Leadership
new people and give something back to
David Diskin, who serves as the
Wilhoit added that Leadership
Steering Committee Co-Chair for
Stockton relies heavily on donations
Leadership Lodi, mentioned that
from past graduates who help sustain the
Stockton helped her, as well. Turner-
Stockton’s program has been an
program. “It’s so important that people
Hardin, who is the Executive Director
inspiration for Lodi. “Having coordinated
know there’s a potential leader in all of
of the Child Abuse Prevention Council,
Leadership Lodi for some time, we looked
us. The way to grow it is to become part
graduated from Leadership Stockton
at Stockton’s program with curiosity and
of Leadership Stockton and not only help
in 2001. “Eleven years later, I still know
admiration,” said Diskin, who graduated
the community, but get out there and
who to call about a particular issue. Those
from Leadership Stockton in 2010. “I
make a difference.”
contacts have remained a great resource
enrolled because I wanted to see how
for me throughout my career, but one of
Leadership Stockton compared to Lodi’s
rowing the boat in the same direction,
the most valuable things I’ve taken from all
program. Although Leadership Lodi
Leadership Stockton can put the paddle
of the sessions is a different perspective.”
has been running successfully for nearly
in your hand.”
the community.” Lindy Turner-Hardin said Leadership
Leadership Stockton helps participants to build empathy and understanding, said Turner-Hardin. “It’s easy to be critical of
20 years, I know that there’s always opportunity for improvement.” Diskin said that participation in
“Our community needs more people
For more information or to find out how you can register for a future Leadership Stockton class, call Director
something when you are only looking at it
Leadership Stockton has given him more
Timm Quinn at 209.547.2960 or visit
from a limited perspective, but when you
respect to those who work behind the
leadershipstockton.com www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012 14
Ribbon Cuttings
EZ Network Systems
For additional information go to www.stocktonchamber.org
Beauty Garden Salon
4203 Coronado Avenue, Suite 1
Stockton
Yasoo Yani 1050 Elkhorn Drive
Stockton
Ameriprise Financial Services INC
Carol Clemens Angel’s Caring Helpers
Chester Lum ABC Wallace Funeral Services
Cindy Ward Xango
Dora Luiz EZ Network Systems
Ed Wanket
Ellen Powell Assembly member Cardoza’s Representative
Fernando Ruelas Kaplan College
Gary Ghan Brookfalls Water
Gillian Murphy Small Business Development Center at SJ Delta College
Glenn Jose H.O.P.E
WorkNet
6385 Pacific Avenue
Gloria Blaine Basket Caravan & Gourmet Gifts
Gregory Walther Press F1 Computer Services
Jennifer Lewis Hilton Stockton
John Paval Kansas City Life
Marilyn Mason RHA
Mark McDonald Legal Shield
May 3, Pacific Records Management
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
Stockton
Grupe Commercial Company, CSU Stanislaus and Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences
Michelle Sherlock Optimal Hospice Care
Melanie Speer Costco
Nick Harbut Eco Chic Salon
Ojesa Asejo-Clark Rabobank
Patti Gulick New Image Signs
Phyllis Klein Klein Insurance
Reggie Martinez UEI College
Networking Mixer
15 PORT CALL
Stockton
610 E Magnolia Street
Attending Ambassadors Blair Hake
Blood Source
4103 East Morada Lane
Stockton
Rick & Cherie Pruitt RP Painting Specialists
Sam Ward Xango
Shannon Ding Assembly Member Berryhills Representative
Tim Aragon Quick Connect Wireless
Vince Rosato New Image Signs
Zach Sharkey Stockton Ports
News Briefs
Submission Guidelines: News Briefs must be submitted before the first of each month to schamber@stocktonchamber.org. Please put “PORT O CALL” in the subject line. Submissions must be no longer than 50 words total and should include contact information. News Briefs will be included on a space available basis and may be edited for content.
The Courtyard by Marriott – Stockton is Proud to Announce
Fine Feathered Friends is on Display at The Haggin Museum
That it has Been Named “Hotel of the Year” by Marriott
through June 17. Using photographs, artifacts, bird specimens,
International, Inc. The hotel beat out 846 Courtyards throughout
artwork and interactive elements, the exhibition tells the story
North and South America. The hotel’s exceptional service,
of how man’s relationship with the many birds of the Delta
combined with a fresh new look, vibrant lobby, value-added
has evolved through the decades. Call 209.940.6300 or visit
amenities and expansive guestroom suites allowed the hotel to
hagginmuseum.org.
gain its top standing within the brand and shed a bright light on the community of Stockton. For additional information visit www.marriott.com.
Lorikeets! is a Seasonal, Interactive Experience Featuring Over 45 Colorful Lorikeets Representing Several Different Species. Through September, Micke Grove Zoo guests will have the
Valley Temporary Services, Located at 1150 W. Robinhood Dr.
opportunity to feed the lorikeets a special “nectar” that meets their
Stockton, Celebrates 25 Years Serving Our Community. They are
nutritional needs while enabling use of their unique brush-like
here to assist clients in finding the right person for their personnel
tongue. We hope you can join us to welcome Lorikeets! to Micke
needs and helping those looking for jobs find one. Valley Temps
Grove Zoo, where you can participate in the feeding experience
will continue to be committed to quality service and hopes to be
and get an up-close look at these fascinating, and beautiful,
of service for another great 25 years. Visit www.valleytemps.net
parrots. For more information call the Micke Grove Zoo Office at
for more information.
209.331.2010.
We Buy Gold & Old Jewelry Bring in broken, damaged, unused or unwanted jewelry and get top dollar!
Construction LEED paperwork Waste Disposal Recycling Services
- Local business for over 25 years - We buy gold year round - No waiting to get paid by mail
GOLD IS AT AN ALL TIME HIGH! – NEARLY $1,400 AN OUNCE
WE PAY CASH!
Don’t risk being paid by out of town checks that might bounce
Same day service
Gary J. Long 1145 W. Charter Way Stockton, CA 95206 209.466.5192
J E W E L E R S
your jeweler for life’s celebrations
320 lincoln center, stockton 477-6881 gjlongjewelers.com
www.stocktonchamber.org
JUNE2012 16
Calendar
June 2012 Highlights 6/7 - Networking Mixer – 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. @ Business Tradeshow @ Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton
7
New Member Meeting – 10:00 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
7
Business Awards Luncheon – 11:30 a.m. @ Hilton Stockton
8
Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
13
Green Team San Joaquin – 9:00 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
14
Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable 7:30 a.m. @ TBD
14
Leadership Stockton Closing Session – 8:00 - 11:30 a.m. @ Stockton Chamber Conference Room
14
Leadership Stockton Graduation – 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. @ Hilton Stockton
20
Chamber Executive Meeting – 7:30 a.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club
21
Installation Dinner – 6:00 p.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club
22
Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
27
Business Education Alliance – 3:30 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
6.30.12
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17 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
*
7/5 - Networking Mixer @ St. Theresa’s Comprehensive Cancer Center 4722 Quail Lakes Drive, Suite B, Stockton
Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info