port o call - july 2012
DESCRIPTION
Stockton Chamber of Commerce monthly magazineTRANSCRIPT
GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.stocktonchamber.org JULY2012
Vol. 58 No. 3
Gary J. LongIncoming Chamber President Looks
Toward a Brighter Future
48th Annual Industrial Technology Barbecue
“Bring It Home” Program Launched by Stockton CVB
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Main Photograph by: Arturo Vera, Arturo Vera Photography.
PORT CALL
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Progress_PortOCall_June_9.25x11.75.indd 1 5/15/12 12:04 PM
CONTENTS
PORT CALL
Incoming Chamber President Looks Toward a Brighter Future 13
Don’t Miss!Networking Mixer
St. Teresa Comprehensive Cancer Center
4722 Quail Lakes Drive, #B, StocktonJuly 12, 5:15-7:15 p.m.
Clint HarlessStockton Auto Glass/Quick’s Glass Service
The Stockton Chamber is the most business proactive Chamber in the State.
The programs offered; from education, leadership and social functions; can only
benefit membership.
68
48th Annual Industrial Technology Barbecue
“Bring It Home” Program Launched by Stockton CVB
From Your President 4
From Your CEO 5
Events 6
Leadership Stockton 7
Convention & Visitors Bureau 8
Programs and Public 10 Policy Department
New Members 11
Cover Story 13
Ribbon Cuttings 15
News Briefs 16
Calendar 17
PORT CALL
GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE445 W. Weber Avenue, Suite 220, Stockton, CA 95203
209.547.2770 fax [email protected]
Official publication of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Serving the Greater Stockton area business community since 1901.
CHAMBER OFFICERS
PRESIDENT Gary J. Long, Gary J. Long Jewelers
SR. VICE PRESIDENT Steven Crabtree, Herum Crabtree
FINANCIAL VICE PRESIDENTBlain Bibb, ServiceMaster Building Maintenance
VICE PRESIDENT Judith Buethe, Judith Buethe Communications
VICE PRESIDENT Dan Durst, Durst Contract Interiors
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Debbie Armstrong, Old Republic Title Co.
CHAMBER DIRECTORSMichael Cera, SMG/Stockton Arena/Bob Hope TheatreDonna DeMartino, San Joaquin Regional Transit DistrictPatricia V. DeSoto, Patricia V. DeSoto, CPAPat Filippone, Stockton Ports Baseball ClubLewis Gale, Eberhardt School of BusinessClint Harless, Stockton Auto Glass/Quick’s Glass ServiceMikey Kamienski, Charterhouse Center for FamiliesDan Keyser, Grupe Commercial CompanyDarryle Oakman, San Joaquin County Rental Property AssociationBakul Patel, Dorfman PacificJustin Redman, Central Valley Community BankTina Williams, Pacific Gas & Electric CompanyDiane Vigil, Dameron Hospital FoundationBob Young, Stockton Golf & Country Club
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERDouglass W. Wilhoit, Jr. 209.547.2766
PROGRAM & PUBLIC POLICY DIRECTOR/ BEAFrank Ferral 209.547.2763
SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTORHeidi Altamirano 209.547.2764
STAFF ACCOUNTANTLia Her 209.547.2768
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORBrittney Doty 209.547.2770
SPECIAL EVENTS/ LEADERSHIP STOCKTON COORD.Timm Quinn 209.547.2960
SCAP COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTMikki Gilbert 209.337.2730
SCAP-SE COORDINATORMichael Morales 209.337.2716
BEA/ SCAP ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTDylan Bacon 209.547.2770
RECEPTIONIST/ CUSTOMER SERVICEMai Vang 209.547.2770
PUBLISHER Stockton Chamber of Commerce 209.547.2770
GRAPHIC DESIGNNever Boring Design Associates 209.526.9136
ADVERTISING Kristin Bowker 209.423.4940
PRINTINGSnyder Parks 209.466.9026
MAILINGSnyder Parks 209.466.9026
Greater
and the Paci�c Athletic Foundation
5:30 p.m...........................................................Doors Open5:30 p.m......Cocktails, Hors d’oeuvres & Silent Auction7:30 p.m.........................................Dinner & Live Auction9:00 p.m.....................................Dancing with Live Music
The 13th Annual Orange & Black Ball
Come enjoy this premier Stockton event taking place in its new
location—the beautiful Janssen-Lagorio Gymnasium! Wine Tasting, Live & Silent Auction,
Hors d’oeuvres, Dinner, Live Entertainment & Band, Dancing, and much more!
All proceeds go toward the Pacific Athletic Foundation benefiting
scholarship opportunities for Pacific student-athletes.
RSVP with Pam Nogare at (209) 946-2387 by Friday, August 17
RESERVATIONS:PAF Member - $75 Table of 10 - $675Non-Member - $95 Table of 10 - $855
Since this is my first Port O
Call article as your 2012-2013
Chamber President, I want to
share that it is a great honor to
hold this office in the historic,
productive, important, efficient,
respected and groundbreaking
Greater Stockton Chamber
of Commerce.
At our Annual Installation/
Meeting held on Thursday June 21
at the Stockton Golf & Country
Club, we said a wholehearted
thank you to our immediate Past President, Debbie Armstrong, her
Executive committee and Board Members for a job well done. We
also thanked our retiring Board Members for their service.
I was also able to introduce our staff and thank them for all the
hard work they do on your behalf each and every day!
As we all know, our city is struggling right now, but at least we are
confronting the issue, unlike some other California cities that are
still not “seeing the forest for the trees.”
The City of Stockton has a proud history. They are dealing with a
problem today, but will come out even stronger when all is said
and done.
The city’s elected leaders cannot do it alone. All of us must help
by not allowing politics and emotion to get in the way of common
sense, community pride and dedication to solid business principles.
As a long time retailer here in Stockton I know that one very
important way you can help day in and day out is to shop local for
all your needs. I know that almost 100% of what you want and/or
need can be purchased right here in Stockton. Close to 70 cents of
every dollar stays right here and that will go a long way to help in a
big way to assist in overcoming the gloomy days now so the sun will
shine brighter than ever before on Stockton.
I look forward to seeing many of you at all the wonderful
Chamber and community events this coming year.
From Your President...by: Gary J. Long
JULY2012 4www.stocktonchamber.org
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From Your CEO...by: Doug Wilhoit
We are now in the month in which we celebrate these United
States of America with vigor on the Fourth of July! Is it not a shame
we do not celebrate, give thanks to God and be good/responsible
citizens 365 days a year all of our lives?
The Record Editorial Board was wise not to waste too much ink
on the embarrassment that was the turn out, or lack thereof, for
the Primary Election on June 5. I too will not waste much time or
effort except to thank those who voted and say shame on those
who did not! In 1954, a wise man, Robert Maynard Hutchins,
stated: “The death of democracy is not likely to be an assassination
from ambush. It will be a slow extinction from apathy, indifference
and undernourishment.” You will be given another chance this
November, so do not make the same lazy mistake so many did on
June 5, 2012! If you choose not to vote then do not complain!
All of the residents of Stockton should be like Mr. Greg Bahr,
President of the University Neighborhood Renaissance Committee,
who was highlighted in the Sunday, June 10 Record by Record Staff
Writer, Jagdip Dhillon! One of the questions was: “How would you
sell Stockton to someone?” Mr. Bahr’s answer: “Stockton has always
been a unique city and has great people, and that is one of our great
resources. There’s always a self-esteem issue here and the financial
issues aren’t helping. There’s a little bit of everything here. The
diversity and the culture make sure something interesting is going on
if you look for it.” Thank you Mr. Bahr for your dedication to your
neighborhood and community.
As you know, over the years I have written about Stockton and all
the good things and been characterized as having a big set of “rose
colored glasses!” Well Mr. Bahr, I do not think, will be accused of
that and he has a true feeling of what this community is all about.
Unlike those who say I am just doing the “Chamber thing” when I
say get out and get to know and enjoy all Stockton has to offer, this
message comes from the heart and from someone who has seen
and worked amongst the great, the good, the bad and the ugly and
still has a great love and hope for Stockton, its environs and its great
people. Thank you Mr. Bahr for seeing a problem and being part of
the solution by not sitting back. Many people can learn from you and
will follow your example.
On June 21, the Chamber changed leadership at our Annual
Installation/Annual Membership Meeting at the Stockton Golf &
Country Club. I have been honored to have worked for so many
wonderful past Presidents, most recently with Debbie Armstrong,
and board members. My personal thanks to each and every one
of them. Debbie is stuck with me for one more year as she serves
on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past President. Debbie,
congratulations on a job well done.
Your new President, Gary J. Long (owner of Gary J. Long Jewelers
in Lincoln Center) has taken over the reins. I have worked with
him over the past several years while he moved from the Board of
Directors to the Executive Committee and has now taken on the role
of your President. I can testify to all that Gary loves Stockton and the
Chamber and will be a very fine leader as we get through some very
difficult times over the next year. With his leadership, the support of
the Chamber Board, the Chamber staff and all of you, we shall again
move Stockton forward to being what we all want it to be now and
into the future.
Finally, on the subject of Stockton rising like a phoenix from the
ashes, let me give you what I think is a good analogy of what can be
done if we all work together as a community.
On Sunday, June 10, we attended the 5 p.m. LifeTeen mass (a
mass successfully designed to bring young people
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce5
continued on page 10
Eventsby: Heidi Altamarino
Ag Hall of Fame Requests Nominations
The San Joaquin County Agricultural Hall of Fame is requesting
nominations for outstanding agricultural leaders and mentors in our
community. Now in its 28th year, the Agricultural Hall of Fame honors
those individuals who have contributed to agriculture and to their
community in significant ways. Each year, awards are given to at least
three living recipients, as well as posthumous ones.
All those previously recognized in the Agricultural Hall of Fame
have their photographs and biographies on display at the San Joaquin
Historical Society & Museum in Micke Grove Park and in the lobby of
the new Robert J. Cabral Ag Center.
Nomination forms are available from the Greater Stockton Chamber
of Commerce, and need to be submitted by August 17 in order to
be considered. For more information, please call Timm Quinn at
209.547.2960 or visit the Stockton Chamber of Commerce website at
www.stocktonchamber.org and click on the Ag Hall of Fame link in the
events section.
48th Annual Industrial Technology Barbecue
One of our most popular events of the year is the Industrial
Technology Barbecue, a festive fall get together honoring new
and expanding businesses in our county. Mark your calendars for
Wednesday, September 12, at 5:00 p.m.
We’re proud to have the distinguished and continuing support
of our founding sponsors Pacific Gas & Electric Company, SJC
Economic Development Association and San Joaquin Partnership.
Their dedication to honoring those companies that enhance our
revenue and employment base is a testimonial to the emphasis we
place on encouraging a healthy business economy.
Various Industrial Technology Barbecue sponsorship levels
are available, and if you take action now, you’ll receive maximum
marketing exposure in upcoming promotions. Act now and help us
honor these great companies!
For more information, please contact Timm Quinn at
2029.547.2960 or [email protected].
Sign Up Now for the Most Bang for Your Buck!
Taking Care of Business Program 2012-2013
The Taking Care of Business Program offers our member businesses
a wealth of marketing and sponsorship opportunities for the upcoming
year. This popular program was created to give Chamber members an
excellent way to receive exposure throughout the year at a dramatic
discount off normal pricing.
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 helps fund
committees and programs designed to keep Greater Stockton
businesses healthy and growing. Committees supported include the
Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable and other business
development programs.
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 the ATHENA Awards 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, consumer exposure and
community involvement goals. Package prices enable sponsors to select
from several marketing and promotional opportunities at a
significant savings.
For more information on stretching your marketing dollars through
Taking Care of Business, contact Heidi Altamirano, Events Director, at
209.547.2764 or [email protected].
Sponsorship Levels$1100 Gold Sponsor Exclusive sponsorship. Sponsorship includes eight dinner tickets, two pre-event
Honoree Reception tickets, recognition in all pre-event publicity and mailings (with name/logo of company), ad in the dinner program, recognition from podium during event, company signage at table.
$800 Sliver Sponsor Sponsorship includes four dinner tickets, recognition in all pre-event publicity
and mailings (with name of company), recognition from podium during event, company signage at table.
$600 Sliver Sponsor Sponsorship includes two dinner tickets, recognition in all pre-event publicity
and mailings (with name of company), listing of company in the program night of the event, recognition from podium during the event.
JULY2012 6www.stocktonchamber.org@ Heidi Altamirano: [email protected]
Green Your Bottom Line with Product Stewardship!
Economic benefits abound: reduced operating costs, energy savings, reduced disposal costs, the creation of green jobs.
www.CalPSC.org
Design it Green | Make it Clean | Conserve Resources | Reduce | Reuse | Eliminate Toxics | Take it Back!
Become a Certified Green Business! Save money & gain customers by:
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.
Leadership Stocktonby: Timm Quinn
Day at the Capitol Session
Leadership Level Sponsor: Financial Center Credit Union
What happens each day in our State Capitol has an impact
on Stockton and San Joaquin County; that is why Leadership
Stockton devoted an entire day to looking at the legislative process
in Sacramento and its relationship with our region.
The class departed Stockton
by bus and arrived in
Sacramento at 9:15 a.m. To
kick-off the day, the class sat
in on the Governance and
Finance Committee chaired
by Senator Wolk—It was a
great look inside at all that goes into getting a law made.
After that, it was off for a guided tour of the Capitol. From
historic places to modern day politics, the class got an inside look
at the inner workings of the Capitol and our legislative system. The
history and stories were fascinating.
After the tour of the Capitol, the class met with
Assemblymember Alyson Huber in her office to hear about how
she became involved in politics and some of the things she is
currently working on.
Then it was off to the Capitol basement for lunch. After lunch,
the class split up and explored the Capitol grounds and observed
some of the great scenery and monuments at the Capitol and
observed some of the CalTrans ceremony for workers killed on duty.
The class then joined Assemblymember Bill Berryhill in his
office. Assemblymember Berryhill went over some of the things
he has accomplished and the issues he is very passionate about. He
was very forthcoming with the class and answered all of their hard
questions. You will be pleased to know that Assemblymember
Berryhill is very busy at the moment working on a lot of great
legislation to help our community.
After the talk from the Assemblymember, the class sat in on the
Agriculture Committee meeting before it was time to head back to
Stockton. It turned out to be a great day for Leadership Stockton,
and the future community leaders of our region.
I would like to thank the following for their contribution to
the success of this session: Assemblymember Bill Berryhill and
Assemblymember Alyson Huber and Shannon Ding (LS ’09) for
all of their assistance.
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce7 @ Timm Quinn: [email protected]
San Joaquin County Office of Education
Wentworth Education Center 2707 Transworld Drive
Stockton
Tuesday, October 30, 2012 Green Curriculum * Green Campus * Green Jobs
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Contact:
Dylan 547-2718 [email protected]
Elisa 468-3066 [email protected]
ANNUAL WORKSHOP TO GREEN OUR SCHOOLS
SPONSOR
PRESENT
EXHIBIT
Grow it, make it & ship it!
Connect with the San Joaquin Partnership.
Convention & Visitors Bureauby: Wes Rhea
“Bring It Home” Program Launched by
Stockton CVB
The Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau invites community
residents to utilize their connections to help us bring more
meetings and conferences to Stockton.
Do you belong to a regional, state or national group
or association? Have you ever considered bringing that
organization’s monthly, quarterly or annual meeting to Stockton?
Well now the Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau is offering
you cash to do just that!
Generating meeting contacts will increase hotel occupancy,
generate more spending in local businesses and help to create a
strong economic impact for Stockton. That would mean more
guests sleeping in hotels, more conventions convening in our
impressive meeting venues, more people enjoying our area
attractions and more visitors shopping and dining in our city.
You can be the connection
to a group that hasn’t been
to Stockton before.
Just about everyone
belongs to an
organization, church
or club. You may have
just returned from an
exciting convention or
event. Imagine that group
meeting in Stockton. If
you get involved and share
the contact information with us, we will work together to “Bring
It Home!”
“Bring It Home” is a partnership between the Stockton
Convention & Visitors Bureau and YOU. As you know, Stockton
has so much to offer visiting groups; whether they are attending
meetings, conventions, reunions, retreats or sports tournaments.
We have it all and the best part is it begins with you! Let’s share
our city and “Bring It Home!”
How do you participate?
Share your contacts with us! If your contact produces a signed
contract with the Stockton Convention and Visitors Bureau and
Stockton hotel room nights, you will be awarded a cash reward!
Room Nights = Cash!
50-99 Room Nights..................$50
100-199 Room Nights..............$100
200-299 Room Nights..............$200
300-399 Room Nights..............$300
400-499 Room Nights..............$400
500+ Room Nights....................$500
Contact Monica Slingerman at [email protected] or
209.938.1552 for details.
Find all of the fine print at www.CelebrateMeetings.com.
JULY2012 8www.visitstockton.org@ Wes Rhea: [email protected]
Be sure to become a fan on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Stockton.CVB
DOES YOUR BUSINESS GENERATE
HAZARDOUS WASTE? Disposing of hazardous waste can be difficult and expensive as it must be specially managed and documented. If your business generates small quantities of hazardous waste in San Joaquin County, we may have an affordable solution that is good for the environment and good for your business.
Green Your Bottom Line with Product
Stewardship! Economic benefits abound:
reduced operating costs, reduced disposal costs, energy savings, and the creation of green jobs! www.CalPSC.org
The Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator Program
Helping Small Businesses with Hazardous Waste Compliance
For a Free Brochure, call 468-3066
To setup an appointment call 1-800-207-8222
Brought to You by the Cities and County of San Joaquin
Design it Green | Make it Clean | Conserve Resources | Reduce | Reuse | Eliminate Toxics | Take it Back!
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce9 209.477.6881
Programs and Public Policy Departmentby: Frank Ferral
Long Time Chamber Members Team Up
The Bank of Stockton and The Grupe Company have jointly
introduced an all-new low-cost loan program created to finance
energy improvements to existing homes in the area. The program
features 100%, 15-year unsecured financing with an interest rate of
5% for the first seven years and 6% for years 8-15. This financing
program will allow homeowners to get complete energy retrofits
and finance them over the fifteen-year period. The goal? To make
the City of Stockton’s goal of 8,000 energy-upgraded homes a reality.
Called an Energy Retrofit Loan, it helps finance such
improvements as: insulation, windows, new heating and air
conditioning systems, solar power and more. By retrofitting
their homes to reduce energy, homeowners will enjoy a greater
measure of comfort year round. By reducing energy consumption,
homeowners will receive a much-reduced energy bill.
Doug Eberhart, president of The Bank of Stockton, explains, “The
Energy Retrofit Loan is a good example of the creativity of two
local companies, working to develop an all-new program, attuned
to people’s concerns about the rising cost of energy. The program
helps homeowners get the kind of professional upgrades they need
to save energy dollars. In addition, the program allows homeowners
to take advantage of huge rebates, ranging from $1,500 - $4,000, and
incentives, all of which will modernize homes in the area.”
Says Fritz Grupe, chairman of The Grupe Company, “With
energy prices on the rise and our summer season coming on, it is
our hope that homeowners all over the region can take advantage of
this fantastic program. Interest rates are historically low and rebates
are historically high. That makes this a perfect time to make your
home more comfortable, and put some extra money in your pocket
every time you pay your energy bill.”
For more information, please contact Mark Fischer, CEO, Green
Home Solutions at [email protected].
CEO Cont’d from pg. 5
to worship and learn) at our Catholic Presentation Parish. The mass
included a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of
the Stockton Diocese (the Record did a great story on this happy
anniversary featuring a man I admire greatly, Bishop Stephen Blaire)
and Monsignor Harmon Skillin presided.
During his homily (sermon), he congratulated the Presentation
Community, where I was honored to serve as an altar server back
in the 1950’s, for not allowing the fiery destruction of the original
church to dampen their spirits and came together as one to rebuild
the new church and expand both the school and youth center.
Monsignor told the Presentation Community that they did not sit
back and feel sorry for themselves, but after the shock and grief
had passed they came together as one to rebuild. As I sat there and
listened to the Monsignor and the gospel readings, I looked around
the church and saw the great diversity of our parish that is symbolic
of our great community.
Let us, citizens of Stockton, be like the Presentation Community
and so many others who have faced hard times and come together as
one to rebuild and again bask in the sunshine over the historic City
of Stockton.
JULY2012 10www.stocktonchamber.orgFor more info, contact Frank Ferral at [email protected]@
New Members For more information on becoming a new member, please call Brittney Doty at
209.547.2770. Please allow up to 90 days for your listing to show.
Automobile Repair & Service
AAMCO2589 E. Waterloo Road
Stockton
Dentists
Bright Now! Dental6323 Pacific Avenue
Stockton www.smilebrands.com
Information Technology / Computer Hardware/Software Supplies &
Consultants
Cantrell Networks, Inc.714 W. Lockeford Street
Lodi www.cantrellnetworks.com
Energy Efficiency
Greener Solutions2331 Stagecoach Road
Stockton www.mygreenesolution.com
Massage Therapy / Spa/Salon
Massage Envy SPA5757 Pacific Avenue #155
Stockton www.massageenvy.com
Chiropractors
Premier Chiropractic5380 West Lane, #A
Stockton www.Painfreedr.com
Restaurants
Royal Siam6124 Pacific Avenue
Stockton
Real Estate Commercial Loans / Real Estate Loans
Success Capital1420 F Street
Modesto www.successcapitalsba.com
Farmers’ Market & Baked Goods
Vintage Certified Farmers’ Market2717 Sebastan Lane
P.O. Box 8280
Stockton www.vintagecfm.com
Small Business Tradeshow MixerJune 7, Hilton Stockton
Business Awards LuncheonJune 7, Hilton Stockton
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PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce11
JULY2012 12www.stocktonchamber.org
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COVER STORY
Gary J. LongIncoming Chamber President Looks Toward a Brighter FutureBy Justin Souza
Each June, the Board President of the
Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
passes the torch to a new leader who will
help steer the organization for the coming
year. New Chamber Presidents bring
fresh goals with them into their term,
but the Chamber’s essential goals remain
unchanged: to promote business interests
in the Greater Stockton area.
On June 21, Greater Stockton Chamber
of Commerce Board President Debbie
Armstrong passed the torch to incoming
President Gary J. Long. Long, who has
operated Gary J. Long Jewelers in Lincoln
Center for nearly 30 years, has been a
member of the Chamber for over 25 years,
and this stint as President caps off years of
leadership roles within the organization.
“I’m just a small retailer, but being part
of the Chamber is a thrill and an honor,”
said Long. “The chamber is a very social
network of business people. It’s a place
where you meet, greet, do business and
learn to improve your business. I’ve
learned so much from my activity and am
always encouraging other members to be
more active.”
As incoming President of the Chamber,
Long faces a fragile local economy and a
city teetering on the verge of bankruptcy.
Speaking by phone from his renowned
jewelry store in Stockton, Long said that
he remains confident in the solvency of
the relationship between the Chamber and
Stockton. “The Chamber has always been
a strong supporter of the City of Stockton,”
asserted Long. “We have to take care of
what we’ve got now, fix it and move on to
making the city better than ever.”
Long added that one of the phrases he
used in his inaugural speech reflects his
approach to the economic woes: “They
say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Well, we
are broke but we’re not broken, and we
working in concert with the elected City
leaders and their staff, we will fix this.
We’re in uncharted waters, but Stockton is
going to keep thriving.”
One-Year Term
Their single-year appointment means
that Chamber Presidents must remain
proactive figures who work nonstop to
move the Chamber forward. As Long
takes on the mantle of President,
he is eyeing numerous ongoing
Chamber projects that
will ultimately add up to
some major benefits for
local businesses and the
community. “The whole
organization is very proactive
and assertive. We don’t wait
for things to happen, we try to
make them happen.”
Long mentioned the prison hospital
project as an example of how the Chamber
has helped make a positive difference for
the city in recent years. During recent
negotiations, the Chamber put up its own
money to ensure the hospital was staffed
through primarily local hires. During the
construction phase, which is currently in
progress, the hospital is employing over
1,700 construction workers, more than
50% of which are local hires. When the
facility opens in 2013, it will add another
2,000 permanent jobs
to the area. In
addition to
this, the
Chamber is
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce13
supporting the new Energy Retrofit Loan
Program (for all the details, read the
full report on page 10), which helps to
bridge connections between membership
and governmental leaders and is even
encouraging green practices through the
Green Team San Joaquin program—an
environmental responsibility effort that
cities around the nation have mirrored.
According to Long, these initiatives are
just some of what membership gets
back from the Chamber.
History in Stockton
Long has nearly 30 years of history
in Stockton. After living in Sacramento
from childhood through high school
and college, and beginning his career
with a jewelry chain there, Long decided
to purchase a jewelry store for sale in
Stockton. That store became Gary J. Long
Jewelers, a cornerstone of Lincoln Center
and a well-respected shop in the jewelry
industry for 29 years. “I was only 29 when
I bought the store, so I’ve been living in
Stockton for half my life,” said Long. “I
have made so many great friends here,
many of them through my time at the
Chamber. I raised my three kids here and
two of them still live in Stockton. Buying
that jewelry shop is the best thing I
ever did.”
In addition to his tireless work with
the Chamber, Long stays busy serving
the Stockton community. As Past
President and current Treasurer of the
Stockton Sunrise Rotary club, Long has
pitched in to help make a difference
in the community for many years.
“Everything we do with the Rotary stays
in our community.” In addition to his
Rotary commitments, Long has
served as President of the
California Jeweler’s Association, was
named the Chamber’s 2007 Business
Person of the Year, served on the Better
Business Bureau board and is active with
the American Cancer Society. “Plus, I
sponsor a one-carat diamond for a Hole-
in-One for almost every single charity
golf tournament in town!” added Long.
When he’s not out helping the community
or behind the counter of his store, you
can find Long on the links. “I absolutely
love golf. I’m a charter member of the
Brookside Golf and Country Club and
I’m very, very active out there. I’ve been
playing for 50 years and still never had a
hole in one.”
During his tenure as Chamber
President, Long says that he will continue
to focus on long-running Chamber
priorities including the shop local
initiative. “One of my main points this
year is trying to keep money and sales tax
dollars in town. We have great merchants
here, we have great businesses here. I
can’t think of anything you would like to
purchase that you’d have to go outside
San Joaquin County to buy.” Long added
that 67 cents of every tax dollar from local
purchases stays in Stockton. That means
funds for the fire department, for the
police department and for a long list of
other essential city services.
From encouraging infrastructure
growth, connecting membership
to area leaders or deepening ties to
the community, the Chamber works
continually to bolster, boost and benefit
Stockton. “We’re working hard to get
business thriving in Stockton again. We
want to make Stockton better than ever.”
And together, President Gary J. Long
and the Greater Stockton Chamber of
Commerce are motivated to make that
improved Stockton a reality.
We’re working hard to get
business thriving in Stockton again.We want to make Stockton better
than ever.
JULY2012 14www.stocktonchamber.org
Ribbon Cuttings For additional information go to www.stocktonchamber.org
Attending AmbassadorsAldo Montijo Premier Chiropractic, Annie Randazzo Allied Waste, Becky Deal Rabobank, Blair Hake Ameriprise Financial Services INC, Carol Clemens Angel’s Caring
Helpers, Chester Lum ABC Wallace Funeral Services, Cindy Ward Xango, Dora Ruiz EZ Network Systems, Ed Wanket WorkNet, Elaine Harlan The River, KRVR 105.5,
Ellen Powell Assemblymember Cardoza’s Representative, Fernando Ruelas Kaplan College, Frank Martinez H.O.P.E., Gary Ghan Brookfalls Water, Gillian Murphy Small
Business Development Center at SJ Delta College, Glenn Jose H.O.P.E, Gloria Blaine Basket Caravan & Gourmet Gifts, Gregory Walther Press F1 Computer Services,
Jennifer Lewis Stockton Hilton, John Medina H.O.P.E., John Paval Kansas City Life, Loretta Lee CA DEPT of Rehabilitation, Marilyn Mason RHA, Mark McDonald
Legal Shield, Michelle Sherlock Optimal Hospice Care, Melanie Speer Costco, Nick Harbut Eco Chic Salon, Ojesa Asejo-Clark Rabobank, Patti Gulick New Image
Signs, Rich McDonald Dale Carnegie, Reggie Martinez UEI College, Rick & Cherie Pruitt RP Painting Specialists, Sally Fandrich Allied Waste, Sam Ward Xango,
Sylvester Aguilar Bank of the West, Shannon Ding Assemblymember Bill Berryhill’s Representative, Steve Glovsky Kamps Propane, Tim Aguirre Impact Promotions, Tim
Aragon TelePacific Communications, Tom Hobbs Park West Self Storage, Tracee Bucio Hands On Healing, Vince Rosato New Image Signs, Zach Sharkey Stockton
Ports Baseball Club
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce15
Kamps Propane
1929 Moffat Blvd Manteca
Cupcake Mania
7610 Pacific Ave, Ste B6 Stockton
College Bakery
5308 Pacific Ave, Ste 11C Stockton
OLLI@Pacific is Intellectual Fun for People over 50
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do WHAT INTERESTS YOU
Visit us online at www.pacific.edu/cpce
No exams! No term papers! No prerequisites!
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!GIFT MEMBERSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE.
209.946.76587 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN STOCKTON AND LODI
JULY2012 16www.stocktonchamber.org
News BriefsSubmission Guidelines: News Briefs must be submitted before the first of each month to [email protected]. 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.
Stockton Art League’s Juried Art Competition returns to The
Haggin Museum. From July 5 to September 2 more than 100 new
works by longstanding local artists and newcomers from across
the country will be on display and for sale. Entries include oil
paintings, watercolors, pastels, sculpture and mixed media. Call
209.940.6300 or visit www.hagginmuseum.org for
more information.
We Are Stronger Together
In August Dr. Ginny Lucas (Stockton’s 2003 Small Business
Person of the Year) will be a presenter for the “We Are Stronger
Together” professional childcare conference in Lihue, Hawaii.
The 2-hour workshop, “A Quiet Time Quick Fix for Common
Childhood Concerns,” is based on her book Charming Children --
How the Relaxation Game Helps Good Parents Raise Great Kids,
which was also featured recently on ABC television. For more
information, call 209.472.0722 or email [email protected].
The San Joaquin County Fair is Seeking Nominations for its
Annual Blue Ribbon Award. This award
recognizes and honors individuals
or organizations who have provided
outstanding support to the San
Joaquin County Fair. Recipients are
those that have provided volunteer
services, educational services or
sponsorship support.
Nominations with a brief written
recommendation should be sent to:
The San Joaquin County Fair
1658 Airport Way
Stockton, CA 95206
Or emailed to: [email protected]
Deadline to submit nominations is July 16, 2012.
DON’TPROMISE
WHAT YOU CAN’T
DELIVERWhat sets us apart from our competition….dependability.
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CalendarJuly 2012
Highlights7/12 - Networking Mixer – 5:15 - 7:15 p.m.
@ St. Teresa Comprehensive Cancer Center
4722 Quail Lakes Drive, #B, Stockton
also don’t miss... 8/2 - Networking Mixer
@ Dorfman-Pacific Co., Inc.
2615 Boeing Way, Stockton
27 Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Stockton Golf & Country Club
25 Business Education Alliance – 3:00 p.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
13 Government Relations Council – 7:30 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
18 Executive Committee Meeting – 7:00 a.m. @Stockton Golf & Country Club
11 Green Team San Joaquin – 9:00 a.m. @ Chamber Conference Room
4 Chamber Offices Closed in Observance of Independence Day
12 Manufacturers Industrial Distribution Roundtable 7:30 a.m. @ TBA
12 Networking Mixer – 5:15-7:15 p.m. @ St. Teresa Comprehensive Cancer Center
PORT CALL Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce17 Contact the Chamber at 209.547.2770 for more info*
Your Local Insurance Super Hero Has Arrived!
Call and Save Today!(209) 451-9010
�e Waterfront Warehouse445 W. Weber Ave., Ste 140Stockton, CA 95203lic. #of74463www.trustopi.com
Clark BeggsSign Specialist
Brad LehmanSign Specialist
Cameron BoringProject Coordinator
Justin SouzaAgency Copywriter
Loyd SchutteMultimedia / IT Director
Clara ConstableMarketing Coordinator
Calvin CurtinMarketing Director
Julie OronaArt Director / Vice President
David BoringCreative Director / President
Joel SteeleFilm & Multimedia
Donna BarkerOffice Manager
Harold AvilaSign Manager
Kristin BowkerPublication Sales Associate
Danielle EwertMarketing Coordinator
Mandeep KhairaInteractice Director
Katie FloydGraphic Designer
Steve CaballeroSenior Graphic Designer
Amber VasquezOffice Assistant
Megan OttGraphic Designer
Heather DuffettGraphic Designer
Warren GroeschelSales Manager & Media Strategist
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REACON: Reducing the cost of doing business through environmental stewardship. “What a bright idea!”
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