PORT CALL GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Vol. 57 No. 1
www.stocktonchamber.org
MAY2011
May is Water Awareness Month Travel:
The Ultimate Economic Stimulus
Making Lemons into Lemonade: PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 461 STOCKTON CA
Mayor Ann Johnston turns burdens into benefits and prepares Stockton to succeed
Photograph by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography
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PORT CALL
15
Making Lemons into Lemonade
CONTENTS Events
4
President’s Column
5
CEO Column
6
Leadership Stockton
7
Programs and Public Policy Department
10
Visitors Bureau
12
New Members
13
Ribbon Cuttings
14
Cover Story
15
News Briefs
19
Calendar
21
May is Water Awareness Month
12
Travel: The Ultimate Economic Stimulus
Don’t Miss!
Networking Mixer Chitivas Salsa and Sports Bar Thursday, May 5, 5-7 p.m. Waterfront Warehouse, 445 W. Weber Street Suite #122
10
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 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 Blain Bibb, ServiceMaster Judith Buethe, Judith Buethe Communications Steven Crabtree, Herum Crabtree Dan Durst, Durst Contract Interiors Clint Harless, Stockton Auto Glass George Kaplanis, Hilton Stockton Dan Keyser, Grupe Commercial Company Kenneth Levy, Wells Fargo Advisors Mike Long, Pacific Records Management Rich McDonald, Class One Safety Sonya Morgan, External Resources Ren Nosky, Downey Brand Fred Walkover, Comcast Tina Williams, Pacific Gas & Electric 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 SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR Heidi Altamirano
209.547.2764
OPERATIONS/FINANCE DIRECTOR Sandy Dwyer 209.547.2770 VISITORS BUREAU DIRECTOR Wes Rhea
209.547.2770
MEMBERSHIP SALES Matt Anderson
209.337.2723
SCAP COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mikki Gilbert 209.337.2730 SCAP ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Karla Gonzalez 209.547.2770 SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD. Timm Quinn 209.547.2960 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 Richelle Alexander
209.988.5800
PRINTING Snyder Parks
209.466.9026
MAILING Pre-Sort Center of Stockton
209.941.2467
Greater
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
by: Heidi Altamirano
June 23, we’ll gather at Brookside Country Club to thank Rick
Business Awards Luncheon 2011 Begin the month of June on a high note by joining us at a
Goucher with CB Richard Ellis Commercial Real Estate for his
luncheon celebration honoring our Business Award recipients. On
outstanding performance as a 2-term Chamber President from
June 2, at 11:45 a.m., at the Hilton Stockton, 2323 Grand Canal Blvd,
2009-2011, and to welcome Debbie Armstrong with Old Republic
we’ll be honoring local business leaders who have been recognized
Title Company as our 2011-2012 President. The evening will
as Business Person of the Year - Tim Aragon with Quik Connect
include an installation ceremony and the presentation of awards.
Sprint Outlet, Business Manager of the Year - Danny Morris with
No-host cocktails begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:45
Robby’s Bicycles, Small Business Person of the Year - Shawn Crary
p.m. Reservations are required and space is limited. Dinner is $65
with Big Monkey Group, Business Employee of the Year - Arezou
per person. Sponsorships are still available.
Soleimani with Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar and the P3 Stewardship Award winner, Policies Practices Purchasing - Pediatric Association of Stockton. These exceptional honorees will be recognized for their achievements and contributions to our community. We will also be honoring our yearly Volunteer Hall of Fame award winners and 25, 50 and 75 year Chamber members. Luncheon tickets are $30 per person by May 25, and $35 each thereafter. For more information, call 209.547.2770.
Sponsors Platinum Sponsors St. Joseph’s Medical Center United Way of San Joaquin County Waste Management
Gold Sponsors Bank of Agriculture & Commerce J.R. Simplot Company Neumiller & Beardslee Oak Valley Community Bank Stockton East Water District University of the Pacific
Silver Sponsors Builders Exchange of Stockton National University R & S Erection of Stockton, Inc. The Record/San Joaquin Media Group
Sponsors Silver Sponsors Financial Center Credit Union J.R. Simplot Company
National University United Way of San Joaquin County
Bronze Sponsor: The Record/San Joaquin Media Group
June Business Showcase & Tradeshow Mixer Sign up now for the June 2 Business Showcase & Tradeshow Mixer at the Hilton Stockton, 2323 Grand Canal Blvd. Expose your products and services to over 300 business attendees, meet some new people and grow your business. Tables are just $250 for Chamber Members. Table space is going fast, so sign up now! To sign up or receive more information please call Timm Quinn at 209.547.2960 or email him at tquinn@stocktonchamber.org.
Annual Installation Dinner 2011 One of the highlights of our year is the Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner. It’s the perfect opportunity to thank our hard working and dedicated board members and committee chairs for their exceptional contribution to our organization. On Thursday,
@
Heidi Altamirano: heidi@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2764
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011
4
From Your President... by: Rick Goucher
With all the good things happening
My team, which was made up of Chamber Board
this time of year I am not sure where to
Members, finished second in a hard-fought battle
start. I would be remiss if I didn’t start by
on a very fun day.
congratulating the Stockton Thunder on another
As my second term winds down, I am looking
excellent season. I am proud to be a fan of the
forward to the State of the City which will be held
Thunder as the team has put a first class product
at the Port of Stockton on May 19th. I hope all
on the ice every year since the beginning. With
will attend to support both the Chamber and the
that said, it is time for Chamber members to get
City. It may be my last official Chamber event as
out and support another Chamber Member, the
President before I pass the gavel to my good friend
Stockton Ports.
Debbie Armstrong. So until next month, one “Event a Week” is all I ask.
I hope everyone enjoyed the 26th annual Asparagus Festival and had plenty of the Asparagus Pasta cooked by yours truly the “King of the Wok.” A good time was had by all at the Chamber Golf Tournament played at Brookside Country Club on “Chamber of Commerce Day.”
Oak Valley COmmunity Bank
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Van Van Groningen Groningen && Sons, Sons, Inc. Inc. with with Kristine Kristine Griesheimer, Griesheimer, Ripon Ripon Branch Branch Manager, Manager, 209.758.8034 209.758.8034
5
“We get great results from Oak Valley Community Bank. They make managing our finances easy and keep our deposits working for us.”
Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches
– Van Groningen & Sons, Inc., Ripon
1.866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
From Your CEO... by: Doug Wilhoit
Legendary Notre Dame football coach Knute Rockne once said: “An automobile goes nowhere efficiently unless it has a quick, hot spark to ignite things, to set the cogs of the machine in motion. So I try to make every player on my team feel he’s [or she’s] the spark keeping our machine in motion. On him [or her] depends our successes.” Over my 43 years in both public and private service, I have seen that this is so true and I’m proud of all the folks of the “teams” I have been so fortunate to be associated with, whether on the Stockton Police Department, County Board of Supervisors, Youthful Offender Parole Board or the historic Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce! I have seen team play at its best and in a few cases have seen self service at its worst. I am thankful that the former has been the experience I have had in the vast majority of my professional life. During the month of April, Easter month and the start of Spring, I have personally witnessed many teams working together for the good of all! I will attempt to mention just a few. The citizens of this community who have stood up to Forbes
First: I have to pay compliments to all involved in the selection process of the General Contractor for Design Build
have been many and they are to be thanked. The Record, for
Package #1 of the New Prison Hospital! All three finalists were
starting the weekly—every Monday—story of the GOOD things
truly professional and presented a hard choice to be made by
in Stockton and the surrounding areas. The players, sponsors,
the selection committee for they were all able to do the job
volunteers, Brookside CC and our staff for a very successful
well. The CDCR staff and all involved in selecting the team of
annual golf tournament. The Miracle Mile Merchants and staff
Hensel Phelps/Granite for this phase of the construction worked
for the “Stockton is Magnificent” effort on April 23 that rocked
tirelessly to get it right! As a non-voting member of the selection
Stockton and sent a message to Forbes. The Thunder who gave us
committee, I watched a process that was handled in a professional,
a great season and will go all the way next year. The Ports for the
honest and painstaking manner to make sure this important
beginning of another great season of family and community fun.
community project gets off on the right foot.
The many groups that put forward such great entertainment in so
The demolition part of the effort was a low bid contract and
many forms. I know there are so many more but space does not
is underway to make room for package #1; in May, the Design
allow me the liberty to mention and thank them all, you know
Build Package #2 contractor, of which there are three strong and
who you are and thanks go out to you but I know most of you do
professional finalists, will be selected in the same fine manner.
it because you love this community and we are richer for
Package #3 is on the streets for RFQ and that will be decided later
your efforts.
in the summer. I witnessed many people coming together as one
Two examples I do need to take some time on are the Prison Hospital process and the 26th Annual Asparagus Festival.
and the beneficiary will be the people of Stockton and San Joaquin County. continued on page 20
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011
6
Leadership Stockton by: Timm Quinn
Leadership Stockton: Education Session
Janine Cuaresma from SJCOE’s one. Schools who discussed the
Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union
purpose and goals of the one. Schools program and the impact
Special Thanks To: San Joaquin County Office of Education
this program has on the lives of students. She brought along
Education plays a vital role in the future economic
three students who shared their successes in the program and
prosperity of San Joaquin County, so a hands-on look at
their future goals. The class then heard from a panel of experts
education was the perfect way to begin the day.
from the SJCOE who presented an overview of the programs and services they offer. The panel shared information on the
The day began with the class divided among 11 schools throughout Stockton. They spent the morning shadowing the
Venture Charter Schools, Special Education, Migrant Education,
principal, learning about their particular schools and their
and Career and Technical Education. The day ended with a
successes and challenges.
lesson on everything you wanted to know about school finance in 30 minutes.
At lunch time, the Leadership Stockton class gathered at
Thank you to Mick Founts for coordinating and facilitating
the San Joaquin County Office of Education for the remainder of the day. A working lunch covered some of the questions and
the afternoon portion of the session, to each of the schools
revelations the class had based on their school site visits. After
for graciously opening up their campuses for our Leadership
lunch Mick Founts, County Superintendent of Schools, San
Stockton visitors and to all of our speakers and panelists for the
Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE), began with an
day. See us here next month as we recap the Health Care session.
overview of the SJCOE and their mission and was followed by
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7
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
@
Timm Quinn: tquinn@stocktonchamber.org 209.547.2960
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011
8
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Reducing waste Conserving water and energy Protecting public health Using recycled-content in your products
www.GreenTeamSanJoaquin.com SMALL BUSINESS HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL*
Affordable Hazardous Waste Management for Your Business A Program of San Joaquin County Public Works www.SJCrecycle.org
(209) 468-3066
i Low cost way to safely dispose of hazardous materials. (Costs depend on your waste types.)
i Documentation that you properly manage hazardous waste. i Assurance that the material will be disposed of properly. *Conditionally
Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQG)
We also accept universal and electronic waste.
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Economic benefits abound: reduced operating costs, energy savings, reduced disposal costs, the creation of green jobs.
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Design it Green | Make it Clean | Conserve Resources | Reduce | Reuse | Eliminate Toxics | Take it Back!
9
PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
Programs and Public Policy Department by: Frank Ferral
Simple changes can result in big savings. Here are a few
Outback Scholarship Luncheon on May 11. May 11 is the Outback Scholarship lunch at the Outback
water-saving tips for indoor and outdoor water use: • Reset sprinkler timer to water:
Steakhouse. The $15 lunch’s proceeds are matched by the United Way of San Joaquin County and go directly to scholarships for
Before 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Seniors attending local accredited colleges and universities.
Only three times a week • Take your car to a commercial car wash where water is
For more information and registration forms, please go to ww.bea2003.com.
recycled • Fix broken sprinklers and water leaks • Install drought tolerant plants and shrubs; use mulch to
Government Relations Council The Government Relations Council (GRC) is committed to
keep soil cool and reduce water evaporation
the long-term economic success of our local business community.
• Dry sweep hard surfaces instead of hosing
The GRC works to improve the effectiveness of legislation and
• Install high-efficiency toilets and high-efficiency washing
regulations which affect our business environment every day. The
machines
GRC reviews the actions of our elected officials and advocates for
• Turn off water when brushing your teeth or shaving
public policies that improve the economic outlook for members
• Avoid using the toilet as a trash can
of the Chamber. At GRC meetings, guest speakers with business
• Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes
and political expertise address the concerns of GRC members and
• Take shorter showers
bring essential facts and insights about issues facing the entire Chamber membership.
Businesses should schedule a REACON Assessment for
March and April Past Guest Speakers
Water Conservation ideas and incentives. Please go to www.
March 11, 2011: Assembly member Bill Berryhill
greenteamsanjoaquin.com and click the REACON icon for
March 25, 2011: San Joaquin County Office of Education
more information.
Superintendent Mick Founts April 8, 2011: City of Stockton Deputy City Manager
For water saving tips and to learn how you can enter to win a free car wash (restrictions apply), visit www.stocktonareawater.com
Mike Locke
About SAWS and Water Awareness Month May is Water Awareness Month Stockton Area Water Suppliers (SAWS) is
The Stockton Area Water Suppliers (SAWS) is a collaboration of water agencies that provide water to the greater Stockton area.
launching “May is Water Awareness Month” by
SAWS works to ensure safe, reliable water supplies are available
asking Stockton residents, “Water U Doing …
and encourages water conservation efforts throughout Stockton.
to Save Water? ” The four water suppliers
Water Awareness Month is an annual campaign that is
– the City of Stockton Municipal Utilities
part of a statewide effort with the California Water Awareness
Department, California Water Service
Campaign. Water providers throughout the state conduct regional
Company, San Joaquin County and Stockton
outreach to raise awareness about the importance of water and
East Water District – are encouraging efficient water
using it efficiently.
use to protect Stockton’s water supplies’ now and for the future.
@
For more info, contact Frank Ferral at fferral@stocktonchamber.org
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011 10
HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS... - Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists - Easy access to your personal doctor - Choice of hospitals and pharmacies - Local and nationwide emergency care - Healthy Families, AIM and Medi-Cal Coverage - Free 24/7 advice nurse - Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.
I
1-888-936-PLAN (7526) www.hpsj.com
N
Conference & Visitors Bureau by: Wes Rhea
Travel: The Ultimate Economic Stimulus Much of the talk
does a terrific job of showcasing Stockton as a destination. It is critical that we do everything possible to find the necessary
nationally, as well as locally,
financial resources to get our message out to potential visitors.
has been centered on how to
Spread the Word. Stockton is a great place. Take pride
get our economy moving again.
in your hometown. Tell your friends and family to come to
Policy proposals and local
Stockton for a visit!
budgets are being measured by whether they will create jobs and stimulate spending. While a contentious debate about the right policy rages
National Travel and Tourism Week is celebrated nationwide May 7 - May 15, 2011. During National Travel and Tourism Week remember that Tourism=Economic
in Washington, D.C., how about an answer that is much less
Development. Tourism is vital to every community no matter
controversial, easier to implement, and, best of all, could yield
what size or where they are located. Support tourism and
better results right here in Stockton?
watch our economy grow.
We’re talking about investing in our local travel economy.
For more information on local tourism, contact Wes at the
Many people don’t realize it, but travel and tourism is one of
Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau at 209.337.2721 or visit
our most important economic drivers. Nationally, travel is
www.VisitStockton.org.
responsible for $759 billion in direct spending, 7.4 million direct jobs, $188 billion in payroll and $118 billion in tax revenue. There are few industries that can compete with this kind of output. The story is similar locally. In San Joaquin County in 2008 (the most recent numbers available), travel is responsible for 6,190 jobs, $646,100,000 in direct spending, and $9.5 million in tax receipts. In 2009, visitors plunked down $29 million in Stockton filling over 461,000 hotel rooms. Simply put, when people travel, the economy grows, jobs are created and the tax coffers are filled. So how can we invest in this precious resource and leverage it to bring our economy back? Here are a couple ideas we can use:
We Buy Gold & Old Jewelry Bring in broken, damaged, unused or unwanted jewelry and get top dollar! - 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
Promote meetings and events. We need to do what we can to support the meetings industry, and encourage more businesses and associations to bring their meetings here. Have you considered bringing your association, group or organization’s meeting to Stockton?
Gary J. Long
Market to out-of-town visitors. The old saying goes: it takes money to make money. The conference and visitors bureau
J E W E L E R S
your jeweler for life’s celebrations
m
320 lincoln center, stockton 477-6881 gjlongjewelers.com
@
Wes Rhea: wes@stocktonchamber.org 209.337.2721
Be sure to become a fan on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Stockton.CVB
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011 12
New Members Advertising & Marketing
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.
Environmental Conservation & Ecological Products
Port City Marketing Solutions
PrideGreen
6507 Pacific Avenue P.O. Box #298 Stockton
Photographers – Portrait Nanapoo’s Photo Lounge 3436 W. Hammer Lane Stockton
10940 Trinity Parkway Suite C299 Stockton
www.www.nanapoosphotolounge.com www.portcitymarketing.com
wwwpridegreen.com
Air Conditioning & Heating – Sales & Service
Food Distributors
Queirolo’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 310 Norwich Drive Stockton
Pre-Peeled Products
Restaurants Country Boys Drive In 2648 E. Fremont Street Stockton
1585 S. Union Street Stockton
www.countryboysdrivein.net www.queirolos.com
Food Mart
Cement Producer/Supplier CalPortland Company
713 N. El Dorado Street Stockton
230 Port Road #3 Stockton
Clergy4Hire.com
www.pekingstockton.com
Solar Products – Dealer & Services
www.calportland.com
Clergy Services
Insurance – Agents & Brokers
Davis Energy Group
www.Spectrum-Solar.com
Telecommunications
www.clergy4hire.com
Energy Efficiency
Legal Services Law Offices of Douglass Srulowitz 1746 Grand Canal Boulevard, Suite 11 Stockton
123 C Street Davis
www.callegalhelp.com www.davisenergy.com
Entertainment SMG 248 N. Fremont Street Stockton www.stocktonarena.com
April 7 Mixer @ Bob Hope Theatre
13 PORT CALL
Spectrum Homes Solar 1449 W. Swain Road Stockton
Marlene Good Insurance 1150 W. Robinhood Drive Stockton
P.O. Box 32071 Stockton
Peking Restaurant 7555 Pacific Avenue #115 Stockton
ABC Food Mart
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
All Communications Team P.O. Box 690 Copperopolis
wwwallcomteam.acnrep.com
Ribbon Cuttings
For additional member info, go to www.stocktonchamber.org
Institute of Technology
Bank of the West
1777 East Hammer Lane Stockton
1340 N. El Dorado Street Stockton
North American Title
Congressman Cardoza 401 N. San Joaquin Street Stockton
3520 Brookside Road, Suite 151 Stockton
Attending Ambassadors Monica Ahumada Bank of the West Gloria Blaine Basket Caravan Carol Clemons Angel’s Caring Hands Rebecca Deal Rabobank Shannon Ding Assemblymember Bill Berryhill’s Office Blair Hake American Financial Services Inc. Loretta Lee California State Department of Rehabilitation Jennifer Lewis Hilton Stockton Colleen Moreno Boboli International Sonya Morgan External Resources
Amit Pal Senator Wolk’s Office Dick McClure Wood Working Institute John Paval Kansas City Life Annie Randazzo Allied Waste Justin Redman Central Valley Community Bank Linda Stockton Entravision Radio Tim Stovall Storkwik Self Storage Cindy Ward Xango Sam Ward Xango Bruce Wert Focus Capital Group
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011 14
COVER STORY
Making Lemons into Lemonade: Mayor Ann Johnston turns burdens into benefits and prepares Stockton to succeed By Justin Souza
Those who fail to prepare, prepare to fail. This adage is weighing heavily on the mind of Stockton Mayor Ann Johnston
tremendous progress on these goals in the last year. Johnston said that some of her proudest accomplishments
this week as she prepares her speech for Stockton’s 2011 State of
in office have been the balanced budgets she and the city council
the City on May 19. Looking ahead to the challenges of the next
produced in 2009 and 2010. The city faces a deficit again this
year, Johnston is putting a new spin on the old phrase. In 2011,
year but at press time Johnston said she was hopeful about her
she is focused on laying the groundwork for Stockton’s bounce
chances of balancing the 2011 budget within the next
back and has committed this year to prepare the city to succeed.
few weeks.
There’s no denying that 2010 was a difficult year for
“We have to figure out providing services with reduced
Stockton. On top of high foreclosure rates, deep funding cuts
revenues and evaluating how we capitalize on positives,” said
that reduced city services, and a legal battle over a proposed
Johnston. “Our success relies on making partnerships with local
prison medical facility, Stockton was tagged by Forbes as the #1
organizations to stretch our tax dollars and provide improved
city on the magazine’s “most miserable cities” list. But despite
services for our community whether it’s school districts, city or
the past year’s bumper crop of
the county. My vision is to leverage all
sour news, Johnston argues
our resources to build something good
that Stockton’s future will be sweeter. Mayor Johnston’s annual State of the City speech will strike a hopeful tone as she urges the city to “make lemons into
My vision is to leverage all our resources to build something good that benefits all of us
lemonade.” According to Johnston, with
that benefits all of us.” Some of Johnston’s successes this year have been due to her alliances with community resources. Through partnerships with local school districts, the
some persistence and optimism, Stockton can position the city
Mayor has managed to reduce drop out rates and increase the
to come out of the recession stronger and more capable
literacy rate in the city. By getting the community involved
than ever.
in strengthening neighborhood watch programs and crime prevention strategies, Johnston hopes to reduce crime and
Making Progress In last year’s State of the City speech, Mayor Johnston
make Stockton’s streets safer this year despite a cut to Stockton’s police staffing. With good resource management and great
laid out a number of optimistic goals including balancing the
relationships with community partners, she is very optimistic
city’s budget, reducing Stockton’s drop-out rates and increasing
about Stockton’s chances of making further strides toward these
literacy in the city, some of the sticking points in Forbes’
goals in the future.
notorious list. According to the Mayor, the city has made
15 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
“A government needs to be run just like a business,”
d
Johnston said. “When times are lean, you have to figure out how
community’s financial future. The new project broke ground in
to survive. And often that means learning to do the job better
November and has prompted interest from local contractors.
with fewer resources. If we’re creative and stick to it, we’ll come
Mayor Johnston said she hopes construction will begin this
out in a good position to take advantage of the economy as it turns around.”
Turning Burdens into Opportunities Johnston is quick to point out how the city is moving to
year and is very optimistic about the facility’s effect on the city.
A Year of the A List The ingenuity and
turn past problems into successes. The reduction in land and
optimism displayed by the
building prices in and around the city, for example, have made
Stockton community this
Stockton more attractive to businesses looking for a great
year echoes the theme of
deal on a new location and that in turn means more jobs for
the 2010 State of the City
Stocktonians and more tax dollars for the city.
continued on page 17
The city’s income has also received a boon from a number of major projects expected to break ground in 2011 including the widening of Interstate 5 and the impending construction of a prison medical facility in the area. Both projects will mean well-paid employment for local workers and significant revenues for businesses that provide construction materials. The history of the prison medical facility is a great example of the Mayor’s commitment to turning burdens into opportunities. When the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) announced its intention to build a prison medical facility in the area, local leaders recognized at once that the facility would place an undue burden on the city’s infrastructure. Litigation implemented by the Stockton Chamber has opened major revenue streams from the project that will have a beneficial impact on the
Photography by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011 16
COVER STORY
speech, “Getting to the A list”—meaning maintaining a positive
about,” said Mayor Johnston. “Stockton has had a tough few
attitude. Led by Mayor Johnston’s example, Stocktonians have
years, and for every step forward the city makes, it sometimes
stayed optimistic this year and worked together to make the city
feel like it takes two steps back. Things are going to start
a better place.
improving, but it’s going to be hard. And when it happens it
In response to Forbes’ list, Stockton’s residents have come
will be gradual, not a rapid improvement.”
out in force to defend the city they love. A video produced
But no one should doubt that the city is making progress
by prominent Stocktonian Greg Basso that counters Forbes’
and will get to a brighter future. Until then, it’s up to the people
estimation of Stockton has gone viral, appearing on numerous
of Stockton to find opportunities to turn all the city’s lemons
websites including the Chamber of Commerce webpage, and
into lemonade.
countless rebuttals to the list in letter and email form have come from the Stockton community. The Miracle Mile Improvement District even organized a “Stockton is Magnificent” event in April that celebrated Stockton’s many unsung benefits. The event included a petition from members of the community that refuted Forbes’ list. “This community action really shows what Stockton’s all
State of the City May 19, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Port of Stockton, Shed 14 Tickets are $35 per person Download reservation form at www.StocktonChamber.org Lunch prepared by Outback Steakhouse
Keep your finances safe and healthy Rabobank, N.A. is part of the Rabobank Group, one of the safest banks in the world with a 110-year history of trustworthy service.
Rabobank. Let’s grow together. STOCKTON 1889 W. March Lane (209) 870-3200 1547 E. March Lane (209) 870-2200
LODI 501 W. Kettleman Lane (209) 371-8500
Rabobank, N.A. Member FDIC www.rabobankamerica.com
17 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
TRACY 2850 Tracy Boulevard (209) 820-1400
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.
St. Joseph’s Medical Center has received the highest environmental
New Chamber Program – Effective Strategies Group. The purpose
achievement award presented by Practice Greenhealth for the sixth
of the group is to have successful business leaders impart effective
year in a row. The facility was named a member of the Environmental
strategies with chamber members to help them overcome obstacles
Leadership Circle. These competitive awards are given within the
commonly found in business today. Topic: Networking Effectively
healthcare sector to institutions for outstanding programs to reduce the
given by Sonya Morgan, VP of Business Development for External
facility’s environmental footprint. For info contact
Resources. May 10 at 8 a.m. in the Chamber Conference Room.
Amy Pijl, amy.pijl@chw.edu.
Limited space, please RSVP to manderson@stocktonchamber.org.
The Greater Stockton Employer Advisory Council and the Employment Development Department present ‘Leaves of Absence’ featuring Lizbeth West, Esq. from Simpson, Garrity, Innes & Jacuzzi on May 13, 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Stockton Golf & Country Club, 3800 W. Country Club Blvd. Stockton, CA 95204. Please RSVP to Colleen Martin at 209.825.2723 or email to cmartin2@edd.ca.gov. The Stockton Women’s Network hosts Sally Edwards, tri-athlete, author, and entrepreneur at the May 4 luncheon meeting. “What Every Woman Wants - Vitality, Verve, Vigor” is high energy, engaging, interactive and motivational. For reservations visit www.StocktonWomensNetwork.org. Join AIDS Walk San Joaquin for the 17th Annual AIDS Walk, Saturday, May 14 at Delta College beginning at 8 a.m. Lunch and a health and resource fair provided for participants. All money raised stays in our county. Register online at www.active.com. For more information call 209.608.9255. PrideStaff is named to Inavero’s 2011 Best of Staffing™ Client List, the nation’s only satisfaction award recognizing exceptional client service within the staffing industry. “We’re honored to be among the top 1% of staffing firms in North America,” -PrideStaff COO Tammi Heaton and Pam Lundquist, CSP/Strategic-Partner, Stockton. For more information call 209.477.6446.
19 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
5.31.11
CEO
Cont’d from pg. 6
Second: The planning, setup and successful run of the 26th annual Asparagus Festival. Starting Sunday, April 10 the setup began and under Kate Post, the Board, committee chairs and the
The two noted above should and can be done by all of us while we endeavor to come out of some difficult times together. One last note of thanks! To the San Francisco Giants and the
volunteers it is a well-oiled machine that I truly enjoy being part
Los Angeles Dodgers for the wonderful thing they did at the start
of. The festival amenities are ready to welcome a huge crowd and
of the game on April 11 at ATT Park. For those of you who did not
help to add another black eye to Forbes. As I sit in my office on
see it or read about it, they showed their respect for the victim and
Wednesday, April 12, writing this article, I have a view of Weber
family of the senseless beating of a Giants fan at Dodger Stadium.
Point and a big smile crosses my face in anticipation of a great
At the same time, they put out a challenge to all of us to show
weather weekend to help welcome not only Stockton and San
respect, civility, honesty and restraint when supporting our teams.
Joaquin County residents but also folks from far and wide who
This is not only in sports but also in politics and life in general.
will be attending the Festival as repeats or first timers. I know
Anger and violence accomplish nothing. Understanding, patience
they will go away saying “WOW” what a great time for all, a great
and civility work better than anything else. As Mr. Rockne told us,
venue and a great community, Stockton California. Thanks to all
it is about all of us working together with a good dose of respect to
for your hard work and I will write about the successful Festival
go along with it. Let’s all try to live our entire lives that way.
again in the June Port O Call.
www.stocktonchamber.org www.visitstockton.org
MAY2011 20
Calendar
MAY 2011 Highlights 5/5 -Networking Mixer – 5-7 p.m. @ Chitivas Salsa and Sports Bar Waterfront Warehouse, 445 W. Weber Avenue Suite #122
5
Networking Mixer – 5-7 p.m. @ Chitivas Salsa and Sports Bar Waterfront Warehouse, 445 W. Weber Avenue Suite #122
9
Liaison Committee – 12 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
10
Effective Strategies Group – 8 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
11
Green Team San Joaquin – 9 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
12
Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable – 7:30 a.m. @ TBA
13
Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
18
Executive Committee Meeting – 7 a.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club
19
State of the City – 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. @ Port of Stockton, Shed 14
26
Chamber Board of Directors Meeting – 4 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
27
Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Various local schools, San Joaquin County Office of Education
also don’t miss... 6/2 - Business Tradeshow – 5-7 p.m. @ Hilton Stockton
21 PORT CALL
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
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Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info
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State of Sustainability in the San Joaquin Valley JUNE 8, 2011 8AM -12PM HILTON STOCKTON 2323 GRAND CANAL BLVD., STOCKTON, CA 95207
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Admittance to the Symposium is free to businesses and public entities. Join us for a discussion on the state of Recycling, Energy and Air Quality. PRESENTED BY Greater
A Green Zone Workshop Green Team San Joaquin Investors:
For more information and to register visit www.greenteamsanjoaquin.com paid for by U.S. Dept. of Energy