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PetalumaBUSINESS
PetalumaBUSINESS
“�Petaluma’s�voice�for�business”
September 2010Vol 19, No 9
PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE
PAIDPETALUMA, CAPERMIT NO. 127
6 Petaluma Blvd. North, Suite A-2 Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-2785
A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce • www.petalumachamber.com
Time Sensitive Material - Deliver by Sept. 7
Current Resident or
Chamber Gets OverviewOn Narrows Project
For more than a half century, the question has always been, “When are the going to complete the freeway between Novato and Petaluma?” and for almost all of that half century, the answer has been “Not yet.” Until now.
Suzanne Smith, executive director of the Sonoma County Transportation Authority, was guest presenter at the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee in August, and gave members an overview of CalTrans plans to finally resolve the headache known as the “Narrows.
The good news is that things are actually going forward on that stretch of Highway 101. The bad news is that in regards to widening 101 through Petaluma, the answer is still “Not yet.”
There are two important, time-consuming segments to highway
planning. The first is design, environmental studies, right of way acquisition, and so forth. The other is actually building the freeway. There is a third aspect which overlays both – getting the funding to do the work.
As a result, Smith said, the work has been broken up into segments, as each is worked upon somewhat separately and under different timelines.
The priority segment, adding HOV lanes in Novato from roughly Highway 37 to the narrows will go first. The project is fully designed, and work should start this fall and be complete by 2012.
The rebuilding of the Petaluma Boulevard South interchange is about 90% designed, and work is expected to start in 2012 and to be completed in 2014. The same timetable applies to an
Mendoza Appointed To Chamber Board Todd Mendoza, Manager of Coldwell
Banker Northern California’s Petaluma office, has been appointed to the Chamber Board of Directors to fill a vacancy.
At Coldwell Banker, he heads a team of over 60 real estate professionals serving Sonoma, Marin and Napa Counties, and is an integral trainer in Coldwell Banker’s Start Program and has trained many Coldwell Banker agents in the San Francisco Bay Region An important part
of his management style are his highly successful coaching skills.
Prior to entering real estate Todd worked for Safeway for over 20 years and among his many roles in the organization were, Santa Rosa Store Manager and President of the Safeway Employees Association.
In 1994 he left Safeway to pursue his passion of real estate sales. Upon entry into the profession, Todd joined Santa Rosa-based Polley, Polley & Madsen,
interchange on 101 south of Petaluma near the landfill, although design is only about 35-65% complete. Meanwhile, construction on adding a third lane to the narrows could start as early as 2012.
One of the tricky projects at the narrows is reconstructing the “San Antonio” curve at the County line, which is about 35% designed and is expected to be done in late 2014.
Which brings us to the Highway 101 work through Petaluma. The freeway bridge over the river is about 65% designed, but because of funding uncertainties, the start, and therefore the end, of construction is “TBD,” or to be decided. As far as widening the lanes through town, another bunch of “TBDs.”
But, there are still some local positives. Work on redoing the East Washington
Street interchange will proceed separately from the above-discussed project, and with design 95% complete, work should start next spring.
Also, design is underway for the interchange at Old Redwood Highway, and freeway widening from there north to Pepper Road could happen sooner instead of later.
Smith stressed that throughout the process, funding depends largely upon how “shovel ready” a project is when funds applications are made. That is why design issues, right of way issues, and relocation of utility line issues are critical at early stages of the process.
Another roadblock at this time is the fact that no State funds can be released for the Narrows project until a State budget is passed.
a prestigious firm later acquired by Coldwell Banker Northern California.
He has since built on a highly successful sales career and was recruited to his current position as Manager in 2001.
A 47-year resident of Sonoma County, Todd is married to his wife Connie Tudor, has two grown daughters, Shanirra and Stacy who reside in Napa and six grandchildren: Dontay, Cheyenne, Jasimine, Kevin, Makala and Michael. Todd Mendoza
2��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
PETALUMA BUSINESS CREDITSPublished by the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce, 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2©2010 Petaluma Chamber of Commerce
Don Bennett Editor & Writer AVM Graphics Design & Production Joan Bunn Photography-Events Marin Sun Printing
PetalumaBUSINESS
Petaluma Business ads are sales boosters! An economic way to reach more than 800 businesses monthly. Call the Chamber, 762-2785 for specifics & discount rates.
Agri-BusinessRebecca Scott, 540-0054 Royal Petroleum
AmbassadorsDaniel Canales, 781-9483 Insphere Insurance Solutions
Jim Alexander, 762-2818 Financial Consultant
Business/EducationDennis Hardle, 763-5348 Hardle and Company
Government AffairsWayne Leach, (415) 883-9850 CSW/Stuber-Stroeh Engineering Group
Leadership Petaluma ProgramCall the Chamber for info, 762-2785.
Past Presidents CouncilElece Hempel, 765-8488 Petaluma People Services Center
CommitteesCall 762-2785 for more information.
River John FitzGerald, 794-0667 FitzGerald & Associates
Wake-Up PetalumaJim Becker, 778-7780 Edward Jones Investments
Jeff Mayne, 536-6161 Excel Mortgage Solutions
Women in BusinessAnne Fischer Silva, CN, 849-3569 A New Leaf Nutrition
PresidentMonica Soiland, 762-3200
Midstate [email protected]
First Vice PresidentRon Malnati*, 769-2294
Exchange [email protected]
Second Vice PresidentTony Sarno*, 664-1400
Keegan & [email protected]
TreasurerWill Soper*, 763-3888
Beels Soper [email protected]
Immediate Past PresidentLes Villanyi*, 484-4992Ottimo International
DIRECTORS
John Burns, 762-4541Petaluma [email protected]
Daniel Canales*, 781-9483National Assoc. for Self-Employed
Elece Hempel*, 765-8488Petaluma People Services Center
Justin Hansel, 768-2300Hansel Auto Group
Katie Kerns*, 557-7045 PG&E
Michelle Law, 559-7200Circle Bank
Wayne Leach, 795-4764CSW/Stuber-Stroeh Engineering Group
Richard Marzo, 763-1515Lace House Linen
Todd Mendoza, 769-4303Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Matt White, 795-4477Basin Street Properties [email protected]
CHAMBER STAFF762-2785 • Fax 762-4721
Email: [email protected]
Onita Pellegrini*, CEOJudy Carney, Bookkeeper
Daniella Ellicott*, Member Services Kathy Brandal, Office Assistant
* Leadership Petaluma Graduates
Ambassador ProfileMary CelestreSummit State Bank
Mary Celestre
Wake Up is BackAt Rooster Run
Commercial real estate, curing cancer, protecting the aged, and the nature of California politics makes up a true mixed bag for the September edition of Wake Up Petaluma, scheduled for September 28 at Rooster Run, 7:30 a.m.
Bill White, the founder of Basin Street Properties, will discuss the history and the future of commercial real estate in Petaluma. White developed the Redwood Business Park on North McDowell.
Sobel Communications, will present an overview of issues in Sacramento and the upcoming state elections.
Sponsor for the morning is Mentor Me Petaluma.
Also on the program is recognition of new members and a raffle drawing.
Cost for the breakfast is $20 for Chamber members, $25 for non-members. Reservations needed – call 762-2785.
Dr. Laura A. Norton will talk about “Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer”. She is a Breast Surgeon with Redwood Regional Medical Groups. She has a Radiation and Medical Oncology office in Petaluma.
Don Streeper of the Petaluma Senior Center will distribute the current senior news letter with highlights. He will also be speaking about Elder Protection and Aging Well.
Local political analyst Brian Sobel,
Mary Celestre has been an Ambassador for the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce for two years. “I love being a Petaluma Chamber Ambassador because it gives me the opportunity to welcome new businesses and individuals into the Petaluma community and to show them what a great community they are becoming a part of.”
Mary Celestre recently graduated from Leadership Petaluma. Mary is also on the Board of Directors for Petaluma Ecumenical Properties (PEP) Housing, Petaluma People Services Center and Rebuilding Together Petaluma. Under Mary’s leadership, Summit State Bank was honored this year with the PACC Large Business of the Year award.
Mary has been in the Petaluma Community for the last 10 years, most recently as the Branch Manager
of Summit State Bank, and she is committed to providing her customers and community with outstanding service. Let your business experience the difference at Sonoma County’s Top Rated Community Bank. Call Mary at 283-1125 or stop by at 701 Sonoma Mountain Parkway.
Leadership ProgramYear-long Schedule
The 2010-2011 Leadership Petaluma program began August 18 with a half day orientation at the Fairgrounds. The rest of the year’s schedule, with Day Chairs, is as follows:
Sept. 15 - History Day, Kathy Fries, Oct. 20 - All Day Retreat, AlumniNov. 17 - Government Day, David KingDec. 8 - Business Day, Bill Medley and
Don BennettJan. 19, 2011 - Community Service Day,
Pennylee ChristensenFeb. 16 - Education Day, Dr. Jane
Saldana-Talley and Ray Petersen
March 16 - Arts and Tourism Day, Tim Cahill
April 20 - Public Safety Day, Petaluma Police Dept.
May 18 - Agriculture Day, Agri-Business Committee
June 15 - Health & Human Services Day, Elece Hempel and Damon Doss
My Summer Vacationby
John Smith
Why Boys FailAn Evening about Educating Boys
Featuring Keynote Speaker
Richard WhitmireAuthor of Why Boys Fail
&
Joe MantheyA Brain-Based Approach to Academic Success for BoysPowerPoint Presentation
October 7, 20106:30-9:00pmSanta Rosa Junior College Petaluma CampusCarole L. Ellis Auditorium680 Sonoma Mtn. Pkwy., Petaluma
Designed for parents and others who care for, educate or make policy affecting the lives of boys.
Sponsored by
aT&TComcastKaiser PermanentePetaluma health Care District
Clover Stornetta FarmsCommunity Foundation - Sonoma CountyPetaluma Minuteman PressSanta Rosa Junior College - Petaluma CampusSonoma County Office of Education
FREE Admission • $4.00 parking per vehicle
Call 707-285-2143, Ext. 138 to register. Visit www.phcd.org for more information.
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Editorials & Opinions, Analyses, Commentary, Viewpoints
President’s Message
Important EventsIn Next Two Months
By Monica Soiland, President, Petaluma
Area Chamber of Commerce
Commentary
There are three important Chamber events scheduled in the next month or so that are worth attending. The first two are political in nature, and the third is business networking.
The political events are, of course, connected to this year’s election, and they are candidate’s nights designed as a question / answer format. You are encouraged to attend and see how each of the candidates seeking your vote will respond to questions about improving both the local economy and our overall community.
The first event is on September 28th, and will feature candidates for City Council and Mayor. Four candidates are seeking the Mayor’s position – current Vice Mayor David Glass, former Chamber Board member Jeff Mayne, Chris Kilgore, and Jezra Johnson Lickter.
Those seeking the three open City Council seats are incumbents Mike Harris and Teresa Barrett, former Council member Karen Nau, former Petaluma fire chief Chris Albertson, and challengers Ray Johnson, J. Ray Bellefuille, Wyatt C. Bunker, Gabe Kearney, and Jason E. Davies.
October 5th the two candidates seeking to replace Mike Kerns in the 2nd Supervisorial District race will face off. In the June primary there were four candidates, now two – Petaluma Mayor Pamela Torliatt, and Petaluma City Councilman David Rabbitt.
There is no substitute for seeing
Platinum Members Gold Members Silver Members
Ace Shirt & Cap • Circle Bank • Clark Rosen, Coldwell Banker Deer Creek Village • Moonware Design • Nancy Cooley, State Farm Insurance
Bronze Members
Ag Committee Seeks HelpTo Produce New Ag Video
The Chamber’s Agribusiness Committee is in the process of creating a new video to promote local agriculture, and they have turned to the broader business community for financial help. It is a plea that all local businesses should give serious consideration.
The current effort would create a product to replace a video created by the committee 13 years ago that is now out of date. The original video was a big hit. Called ‘Petaluma Agriculture: Our Foundation Your Future,’ it was placed in all of the Petaluma area schools for use in the classrooms and as a tool for career counseling. It was also shown numerous times a year to thousands of people at various agriculture-related events throughout the area.
With all the rumble and noise in local politics about growth and no-growth, shopping centers or no shopping centers and this or that, the status of local agriculture is too often overlooked. The fact is, our local ag community is facing many of the same struggles facing our mainline businesses. Is ag important to our local economy? Like the man in the Geico commercial asks, “Does the piggy say wee-wee-wee all the way home?”
Ag has been an integral part of the Petaluma economy since the first days of the mid-1850’s, and it still is. Petaluma became a thriving mercantile center to process and ship ag products raised and produced in the surrounding countryside. We became world famous in the early 1900’s for our chickens and eggs, and today our dairies are truly essential contributors to our local economy.
Efforts such as those being currently undertaken by the Agribusiness Committee are designed first to impart in our young people an understanding of ag’s critical role, and secondarily to inform and enlist the support of the broader community in an effort to support local ag.
One of the problems facing the dairy industry, which the videos past and future are designed to address, is the fact that many of our younger generation are leaving ag and turning to other professions. Too often the family dairy is finding there is no family left to run them.
Plus, with the explosion of internet technology, the video has unlimited potential for national and international viewing.
The committee is looking for businesses to make donations of $300 each. Donors at this level will get recognition in the video.
Businesses wishing to support this worthwhile effort should send a check for $300 to the Chamber office, made out to the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce.
The last video did good work for more than a decade. We now have the opportunity to carry that good work forward.
candidates in person, answering questions that are meaningful to you. Both forums start promptly at 6:00 at the Sheraton in Petaluma. I sincerely hope that each and every one of you will make an effort to attend. The Chamber is not endorsing candidates, so this is your chance to find out which candidates will best take aggressive effort to support and improve our local economy.
A reminder to all that November 2nd is Election Day.
The third event is our annual Business Expo. For two decades now we have been bringing the business community together at the Lucchesi Community Center to interact, promote business, meet old friends, make new friends, sample some truly fine food and in general network in a genuinely festive atmosphere.
If you are planning a booth, and haven’t reserved one yet, move quickly – we sell out early most years. More importantly, I am urging you to mark this event on your calendar. You may find out about businesses, products, and services you did not know were available locally. Each year, attendance is estimated to approach 2,000. I hope that I’ll see you there.
It is going to be a busy autumn for the Chamber, Board of Directors and staff. We will be back to the task of advocating for the best interests of local business.
6��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Board Opposes Sewer Rate Rollback
The Chamber Board has voted unanimously to oppose Measure U on the November ballot.
Measure U would sharply reduce rates 45% for sewer service in Petaluma. Currently this City sits about midway in the water costs paid by residents of the nine cities in the County.
A comparable measure, Measure K, failed in local elections two years ago. The Chamber Board also opposed that measure as well.
The measure was spurred in part by local rate increases resulting from the need to pay off bonds sold to underwrite construction of the new wastewater
treatment plant south of town.
Chamber CEO Onita Pellegrini said the Board felt that Measure U, if passed, could do incalculable harm to the City’s finances, already in peril due to the drastic drop in revenues caused by the current recession.
She also noted that a comparable voter approved measure in Rohnert Park, which does not have a comparable pay-off to Petaluma’s treatment plant, has placed that city in jeopardy.
Measure U has also been opposed by the fiscally conservative Sonoma County Taxpayers Association, which called the 45% rollback “draconian.”
Expo on October 7;Booths Available
The 21st Annual Petaluma Chamber Business Expo is on schedule for its October 7 extravaganza, and Chamber CEO Onita Pellegrini said there are still booth spaces available. Sponsorships were filled by mid-August.
The event takes place at the Lucchesi Community Center from 4-7:30. Based on past attendance, a crowd approaching 2,000 is expected for the annual event.
About 100 booths will be placed throughout the community center, offering local businesses the chance to showcase their wares and services. Many exhibitors will be giving away prizes and holding drawings for gift certificates.
Booth charges for Chamber members are $375 for inside, $275 outside, and $250 for non-profits. Non-Chamber members’ booth charge is $600. There is also a $35 charge for electrical outlet.
Chamber members reserving booth
space inside before September 7 will receive a $50 discount, according to Chamber CEO Onita Pellegrini.
Booth prices include backdrop, 8-foot display table, two chairs and a linen top,
Sponsorships this year are Bank of Marin, PG & E, Comcast, Exchange Bank, Port Sonoma, Redwood Credit Union, Clover Stornetta Farms, Inc., Summit State Bank, Fishman Supply Company, Petaluma Argus-Courier, and NorthBay biz.
The food sponsors were still being signed up at press time. On board for this year’s Expo and offering free samples are Bert’s Desserts, Petaluma Coffee & Tea Co., Preferred Sonoma Caterers, Rooster Run Event Center, Whole Foods, Extreme Pizza, and Papa’s Taverna.
For information on getting booth space or any other related Expo subject, call 762-2785.
From left to right, at the YogaSpark and Bodyworks Ribbon Cutting and Business After Hours: Chery Bertini-Kataoka, teacher at Bodyworks; Clinton Smigh, American Landscape Photographer & Deb’s partner; Deb Reid, Owner of YogaSparkl Mayor Pamela Torliatt; and Jean Grant-Sutton, Owner of Bodyworks.
WIB BreakfastFeatures Moolla
Roohi Moolla, Founder and CEO of Neighborhoodnow.com, a network of online social calendar and community portals connecting people and communities through events and news, will present a social media seminar entitled “Why Social Media Matters to You and Your Business.”
The program, scheduled for 7:15 a.m. on September 14, will be held at the Petaluma Woman’s Club, 518 B Street. The event is part of the Chamber’s Women in Business Committee’s program to bring relevant speakers and workshops to the membership.
Social Media is transforming the world of business communication in marketing, advertising, sales, customer service, branding and more. With an informative, fast-paced look at Social
Media and some of the most popular tools in use today including Twitter, Facebook and Blogs, Roohi Moolla helps discover how to unlock the power of Social Media tools to stay relevant and visible, and make your business more competitive, productive and profitable.
Cost for the breakfast is $25 to Chamber members, $30 to non-members, and reservations (required) made after September 10 pay $5 extra.
Roohi Moolla
Local ElectionsGet 15 Candidates
Fifteen candidates have filed for three different local races in the November 2 elections. The Chamber will be sponsoring two candidates nights for the election for County Supervisor, Petaluma City Council, and Petaluma Mayor.
The Council event will be held at the Sheraton Sonoma County - Petaluma on September 28, and the Supervisor/Mayor candidates will be heard on October 5.
David Rabbitt and Pamela Torliatt
are the two candidates for the 2nd Supervisorial District seat.
In the Mayor’s race, it will be David Glass, Jeff Mayne, Chris Kilgore, and Jezra Johnson Lickter.
Those seeking the three open City Council seats are Mike Harris, Teresa Barrett, Karen Nau, Chris Albertson, Ray Johnson, Ray Bellefuille, Wyatt C. Bunker, Gabe Kearney, and Jason E. Davies.
For more on this subject, see President’s Message on page four.
1. You meet plenty of potential customers through the Chamber’s rich variety of programs.
2. You can take advantage of major discounts offered by other businesses to Chamber members only.
3. You pay less at Chamber sponsored events than non-members.
4. You have access to the Chamber conference room for your own business meetings, including phone, easel, fax & copy machine.
5. You have a presence on the web through the Chamber’s website.
Five Benefits of Being a PACC Member
Don’t delay—become a Chamber Member today! 707-762-2785
8��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Art in the ParkSept. 11-12
Artists all around Petaluma and beyond are getting geared up for the 53rd Annual Art in Park to be held at Walnut Park - Petaluma Blvd South and D Street in Petaluma Saturday and Sunday Sept 11th and 12th 10:00 am - 5:00pm.
Sponsored yearly by the Petaluma Art Association (also in their 53rd year) artists literally come out of the woodwork for this event. Tents and booths filled with artists and their wares
surround the quaint gazebo in the center of the park.
The Petaluma Arts Association has been a participant in the community for 53 years promoting appreciation of the arts. The PAA scholarship Program has donated thousands of dollars each year through its grant process to support the Petaluma schools in developing student art programs.
For more information about AIP Call - 707-793-2113
Vietnam ExhibitAt Museum
The personal stories of local veterans who served in the Vietnam War are the emphasis of The Petaluma Museum’s newest exhibit, “The Vietnam Experience, A Soldier’s Story”.
The exhibition includes historical artifacts, photographs, and documents interwoven with remarkable oral histories. Included in the exhibit is a historical timeline provided by CERA Exhibitions, a company that provides high quality exhibits to museums around the world. The exhibit opens September 16th and runs until November 28th 2010.
The opening night reception for Museum members will be held September 16th at 6pm which will include presentation of the colors by the Coast Guard.
The exhibit has been supplemented with material from the collection of the Pacific Coast Air Museum and Petaluma Military Museum to make the Petaluma exhibit the largest Vietnam War exhibit in the Bay Area. Highlights of the exhibition include simulated living conditions, a Reflection wall, speaker series, and film “The Vietnam War” which will air every Saturday at 1:30pm.
Announcing The 2010 Business Technology Boot Camp
Where: Rohnert Park
When: September 8,2010 8:30AM - 5:00PM
What: The 2010 Technology Boot Camp is a full-day workshop for non-technical small business entrepreneurs to learn about all aspects of using online applications in their business.
The 2010 Technology Boot Camp is a follow-up to the very successful 2008 and 2009 Technology Boot Camps, and is brought to you by the same team: the
Small Business Developemnt Center at Santa Rosa JC and the SBCD Technology Adoption Program.
The workshop sessions have been designed for optimum user-friendliness and are intended for non-technical small business owners of all skill levels. Participants will be provided with valuable how-to instructions and sample IT “road-maps” to take back and apply to their own business
Cost: $49.95 (plus booking fee). Early Bird rate 20% discount - $39.95 (plus booking fee) until August 24th!
Business Briefs
Redwood Credit Union (RCU) recently welcomed Tony Hildesheim as their new Senior Vice President of I n f o r m a t i o n Technology. He is responsible for strategically plan- ning, developing, directing and eval-uating all information technology and ecommerce initiatives for the Credit Union, and oversees the Credit Union’s Information Technology staff.
Bank of Marin Bancorp announced second quarter 2010 earnings of $3.3 million, up 6.5% from $3.1 million in the second quarter of 2009 and up 13.3% from $2.9 million in the first quarter of 2010. Diluted earnings per share were $0.63 in the second quarter of 2010, an increase of 5.0% from $0.60 in the second quarter of 2009, and up 12.5% from $0.56 in the first quarter of 2010.
Wild Goat Bistro is now doing a
Happy Hour from 5-6:30pm Sunday – Thursday, featuring selected wines and beers at $4.50 and $3.00 respectively, with a special happy hour menu. They are also serving gluten free pizzas.
BKF/Carlenzoli announced that Joscelyn Lievore has been hired as their Business Development & Marketing Coordinator.
In the recent US News & World Report Best Hospitals Issue, the American Heart Association salutes hospitals nationwide that have earned top achievement awards according to the Association’s Get With The Guidelines evidence-based performance standards for stroke prevention. Kaiser Permanente San Rafael and Santa Rosa are among the hospitals recognized as Gold Plus Achievement Award recipients.
Golden Living Center - Petaluma was recently named by the North Bay Business Journal as one of the 54 Best Places to Work in California’s North Bay Area.
Tony Hildesheim
A sample photograph from The Vietnam Experience, a Soldier’s Story exhibit.
Awards NightAt Sheraton
The winners of the 2010 Petaluma
People’s Choice Awards will be honored
at a gala reception hosted by the
Petaluma Argus-Courier on Sept. 8 at
the Sheraton Petaluma Hotel.
The event will recognize the
businesses and professionals who were
voted tops in their category in the
sixth annual People’s Choice/Best of
Petaluma Contest.
The event starts at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $25 per person. Deadline for reservations, which can be made on petaluma360.com, is Sept. 2. Call 776-8451 for more information.
Presenting sponsors are Clover Stornetta Farms, Exchange Bank, Kaiser Permanente and Deer Creek Village, a project of Merlone-Geier Partners. Wilibees Wines & Spirits is the wine sponsor.
10��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
PEFBash
Petaluma High School Alumni Ron Malnati and Rick Mossi know the value of investing in the city’s 36 schools. As Vice-President of Business Development for Petaluma’s Exchange Bank and VP/Regional Manager of this popular People’s Choice and locally owned financial institution, the prominent bankers are backing citywide education for the fifth consecutive year.
This year’s $10, 000 underwriting monies for Petaluma Educational Foundation’s 2010 fundraising BASH represents a substantial sum total of some $50,000 pledged by Exchange Bank as the high profile event’s five year prime benefactor.
“With its extensive history in partnering in education, Sonoma County’s independently owned and operated Exchange Bank pledged a $50,000 five-year commitment to
underwrite partial costs of PEF’s annual fundraising gala, back in 2005. This year’s $10,000 premier sponsorship donation marks the completion of this initial pledge to back an event that typically raises over a quarter of a million dollars for educational program funding each fall.
The 2010 PEF BASH takes place on Saturday, September 11th. Returning sponsor, RNM Properties has stepped up for schools for a second consecutive year by donating extensive space for the BASH. Some 500 guests will raise the paddle for education in a new location this year at 1039 B North McDowell Boulevard near Corona Road.
For more information on attending the September 11th PEF BASH, visit www.pefinfo.com, or call (707) 778-4632.
See Your Power With PG&E’s SmartMeter™
The following article was submitted by PG&E to help businesses with questions about the new SmartMeter program.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has long been a part of California’s communities, delivering gas and electric services for more than 100 years. Over the last century our customers’ expectations for service have changed dramatically, and the utility has changed the ways it provides energy service to best meet those expectations. One of these changes is the implementation of SmartMeter™, which will empower customers to take greater control of their energy consumption, use less energy and save money.
PG&E’s SmartMeter™ program is part of a statewide effort driven by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to upgrade California’s energy infrastructure through automated metering technology.
For our business customers, the SmartMeter™ network will enable them to view their electric usage in 15-minute increments and daily gas energy usage data. As a result they can easily find out exactly how much energy their businesses are using over the course of the day, week, or month—valuable information business owners can use to make smarter energy choices. The
technology will also enable faster power restoration.
Through SmartMeter™ automated meter-reading technology, business customers will no longer have to wait for a monthly bill to know how much energy they use. Once the meter can be read remotely by the SmartMeter™ network, customers will be able to log on to www.pge.com/myaccount to see and track their electric and daily gas from the previous day and before.
SmartMeter™ technology also gives business customers access to new electric pricing plans. Some are available today, and more will be available in the future. New pricing plans will give business customers more control over their electric bills while also benefiting the environment. Please visit www.pge.com/smartmeter for more information.
In addition, the ability to monitor energy usage gives customers the information they need to conserve or shift energy usage. When many individuals conserve, the results can include decreased pressure on the power grid, less need to build new power plants and reduced carbon emissions.
To learn more about PG&E’s SmartMeter™ program and its benefits, please visit www.pge.com/smartmeter or call 1-866-743-0263.
New From the SonomaCounty Tourism Bureau
(The following are excerpts on local tourism marketing activities, reported in the SCTB’s newsletter)
Vanden Heuvel Earns Designation
Continuing with the ongoing goal of professional development, SCTB congratulates its own Jill Vanden Heuvel, who was one of 23 professionals to earn the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) designation at Destination Marketing Association International’s (DMAI) 96th annual convention.
The CDME program is recognized by the industry as the highest educational achievement for destination management professionals. The achievement requires a significant commitment in time and resources.
CalTIA Seats New Board Member
In other Jill Vanden Heuvel news, she recently attended her first meeting as a new board member of California Travel Industry Association (CalTIA). CalTIA is the unified voice for California’s travel industry’s political concerns, addressing issues that affect our state’s tourism industry. For more information on how to become involved with CalTIA, visit caltia.org.
CMP Turns 25
Chyrl Collins, CMP, CTIS, attended the 25th anniversary of Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) at the annual CMP Conclave, in Baltimore.
About 500 people - a record attendance - experienced three days of education, networking and community outreach. Top industry executives seated on the “Power Panel” for the opening session focused on the slow, but rebounding, economic recovery.
Chryl knows how to mix business with education: The bonus for attending was a sales lead for Sonoma County from the very first person Chyrl met.
O Canada! Show Yields Leads
Marta Hayden and Jamie Ward attended Meeting Professionals International’s World Education Congress in Vancouver, Canada, in July. They exhibited at the two-day trade show, representing Sonoma County to meeting planners from all over the world and met with more than 50 planners interested in Sonoma County for a future meeting or program.
Jamie has already received one request for proposal (RFP) totaling 545 room
nights, and expects to receive two more RFPs to send out by the end of August to the properties SCTB represents.
Sales with an International Flair
In early July, CTTC brought a record 32 delegates from 24 companies on a European sales mission to the United Kingdom, Ireland and Germany, providing an excellent platform to showcase California destinations and products directly to top-notch travel trade and media in three key international markets.
Mark Crabb represented Sonoma County and met with several tour operators and travel agents from each country, who were curious about Sonoma wine country.
Mark gave overviews of the many attractions, spectacular venues and travel tips for their clients generating new interest in the destination. Mark will be following up with the tour operators working on packaging and special promotions.
Play Ball! SCTB’s Client Event Hits a Grand Slam
Jamie Ward and Mark Crabb, from SCTB’s sales team, rewarded seven of our top clients from the Houston area at an Astros game on Aug. 10. They spent time networking with clients who have already booked definite business in Sonoma County for upcoming years, as well as those with existing and potential leads for future business. We expect to receive an additional lead from this event within the next couple of months and to close an existing lead in the near future
Sonoma County Gets a ‘Colbert Bump’
Stephen Colbert “ranted” about the recent appeal that overturned the ban on Prop 8. In a convoluted plot to subvert gays and lesbians and their desire to marry, Stephen mentions Sonoma. Alas, we don’t have the space to go into details, so you’ll need to watch it yourself. It’s a funny. This is the entire show. The monologue starts at around 5:30 and Sonoma wine country is mentioned at around 6:50; it’s worth watching the whole thing; http://bit.ly/d60B0Y.
Roll Tape, and Action! New Videos Posted
Sonoma County Tourism Bureau’s film crew (OK, two people, but two can be
Continued on page 12
12��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Petaluma Coffee & Tea212 2nd St., south of D, in the Theater District • 763-2727
Check out our cool iced teas for
Summer brewing or enjoy a smoothie
at our Espresso Bar…
Weekdays from 7:30 to 5:30 Saturdays from 8:00 to 4:00
a crew, right?) has been busy lately. Check out our You Tube channel at http://bit.ly/cv67ry. Four new videos have been uploaded. View them here and subscribe to get the latest and greatest as soon as they are uploaded.
Local secret Spud Point Crab: http://bit.ly/dxINZ2
Fourth of July, featuring our own Marta Hayden: http://bit.ly/dhQgwA
Tattoos and Blues Festival: http://bit.ly/dk4uLp
Fort Ross Heritage Day: http://bit.ly/92vuof
Sonoma Insider Attracts Visitors
Are you a Sonoma Insider? Our consumer e-mail went out last week to more than 20,000 fans of Sonoma County. And, what’s not to love about Sonoma County? Get ready; they’ll be coming in flocks and herds! View the latest at http://bit.ly/bjxNNV.
California the Game Scores High with Visitors
Sonoma County helped the California
Travel and Tourism Commission with a recent sweepstakes: California the Game! Sonoma Coast Villa contributed to the grand prize package and was a driving factor to the game’s success.
Final results showed that 403,282 unique visitors landed on www.visitcalifornia.com/game, and the game wheel was spun more than 2.3 million times.
Media Hits Keep on Coming
As part of SCTB’s partnership with Lou Hammond & Associates, our national PR firm, several stories have been generated about Sonoma County. Recently, the Los Angeles Times included a Sheraton Sonoma County hotel deal in their daily “travel & deal blog,” http://bit.ly/b3aoV9.
Sonoma County’s Gravenstein Apple Fair was included in the calendar section of Los Angeles Times’ travel section recently, http://bit.ly/dvWvba.
Mutt Lynch Winery’s “Yappy Hours” were featured in a round-up on Woofin’ Wineries in the summer issue of Doggie
Aficionado (Circulation: 175,000). LHA pitched this information to Managing Editor Giannina Smith and provided photos as well.
An Associated Press piece on Sonoma County Winegrape Commission’s vineyard adventures ran in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, before being picked up by dozens of AP-member news organizations, including CNBS.com and Yahoo.com, http://bit.ly/9fyuVv.
Industry NewsSTR Releases Optimistic Forecast
for 2010, 2011
The U.S. hotel industry is projected to end 2010 with increases in two of the three key performance measurements; according to STR’s forecast update says ehotelier.
STR projects 2010 occupancy will increase 4.4 percent to 57.1 percent; average daily rate is expected to end the year virtually flat with a 0.1-percent decrease to $97.74, and revenue per available room to rise 4.3 percent to $55.77.
Supply is expected to grow 2.2
percent during 2010, and demand is projected to increase 6.6 percent
Examining Current Industry Trends
The economic recovery has, unfortunately, slowed as news emerged that the “Great Recession” was deeper than originally thought. Consumer spending is modest at best, and consumer confidence retreated for the second month in a row in July.
On the back of rebounding corporate travel, better times are returning for hotels and airlines, while leisure travel is subdued. The picture for travel overall is one of slow but continuing recovery, but one that will become more difficult as the comparables become tougher in the months ahead. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/dmIupv.
California’s Tourism Indicators Show Progress
Hotel occupancy rates and California Welcome Center visitation are up more than 5 percent from 2009 in June. And in welcome news from the lodging
ReportContinued from page 10
Continued on page 13
Petaluma Business – A publication of the PACC September 2010��������13Marketing materials behind the times?
In Petaluma since 1996
Contact Ann today to get your message
across loud and clear.
Don Bennett& Associates
Advertising & PR ConsultingWriting & Editing Services
ReportContinued from page 12
industry, the June average room rate in California was up, year over year, for the first month since September 2008.
International passenger traffic at California’s top 10 airports was up 15 percent in May, as both Californians traveling outbound and foreign residents traveling inbound gained considerably from a year ago. Find out more at http://api.visitcalifornia.com/GETMEDIA.aspx?FILE=CTTCResearchBulletin_July2010Final.pdf&TYPE=PDF
Travel on the Rise, Says Online Booking Engines
Driven by higher travel demand and improving room rates, international travel bookings increased by 59 percent compared to the year-ago quarter, Priceline reported. The company’s U.S. travel bookings also rose - to the tune of 20 percent - thanks mainly to more hotel reservations. Read more at http://bit.ly/diicOb.
KudosSafari West Woos MPI Chapter
Board
Safari West made the cover of the MPI Sacramento Sierra Nevada Chapter’s
Summer newsletter. The board of directors for the chapter visited for a retreat dinner and tour. Since then, every time SCTB’s Paula Higgins meets with a member who attended, all they talk about was what a wonderful night they enjoyed at Safari West. And, at least three people have visited with their families since the event
Portworks Brings Home the Medals
Employees at Sonoma Valley Portworks, of Petaluma, are celebrating a slew of medals from the LA International Wine Competition. Maduro, a wood-aged tawny port, was ranked as the best fortified dessert wine in the entire competition. It was also named best of class and earned a gold medal. The fortified Muscat, was also named best of class and a gold medal winner. Judges awarded silver medals to Aris 2005 petite sirah port and Aris 2005 petit verdot port.
Landmark Pinot Noir Featured
Congratulations! Landmark’s 2008 Kanzler Pinot Noir scored 95 points, and its 2008 Grand Detour Pinot Noir scored 92 points in the Pinot Report.
14��������September 2010��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Members
New MembersConservation Corps North BayGary Miltimora365 Blodgett StreetCotati, CA 94931
Make It SewKathi Carney3180 Eastman LanePetaluma, CA 94952
Panamax LLCBill Pollock1690 Corporate CirclePetaluma, CA 94954
Realty Property ServicesDiane QuinnP.O. Box 5621Petaluma, CA 94955
Referral Network, Inc.Esther SchauPetaluma, CA 94952
Renewing MembersAccuchex Corp./Time 2 PayAdvanced Alternative Energy SolutionsArchitectural Design & RestorationArmor Locksmith ServicesBaldwin, McGaughey & Co. LLPBank of Marin - Marina BranchBank of the WestBay AlarmBeels Soper LLPBehrens, Nelson & KnudsonBenefield RealtyBernstein Institute for Integrative PsychotherapyBest Western Petaluma InnBlood Bank of the RedwoodsBNI - Rivertown Business BuildersBrixxBrooks AutomationBurger King 3157CamelBak Products, LLCClyde L. Schultz, D.D.S.Coldwell Banker Residential BrokerageCostco WholesaleCypress Hill Memorial Park
De Bel Roofing Supply, Inc.Devcon Construction, Inc.Don Bennett & AssociatesDon Ramatici Insurance, Inc.ECONFirst Community BankGhilotti Construction CompanyGolden State Lumber, Inc.Graziano’s RistoranteGreen Frog Garden FurnitureGreenleaf & Burleson Wealth Management, LLCHenris Supply, Inc.Heritage SalvageHermann Sons Hall AssociationHigh Tech BurritoHospice of PetalumaHydrex Pest Control of No. CaliforniaInvestment Architects, Inc.Jennie Low’s Chinese CuisineJim Stern, NMTJoe Tambe - Executive CoachJRL Machine & Driveline, Inc.Kala Brand Music CompanyKastania VineyardsKval, Inc.Lace House Linen SupplyLaw Offices of David C. KingM & M Services, Inc.Machado Brothers, Inc.MACTEC Engineering & ConsultingMarin French Cheese CompanyMark Albertson, ArchitectMiguel Alfaro - State Farm AgentMr. Handyman of Sonoma CountyMrs. Grossmans Paper CompanyNelson StaffingOakCreek ApartmentsOld adobe Developmental Services (O.A.D.S.)Old Republic Title CompanyPacific Empire ChorusPark Central ApartmentsPaychexPDC PagesPersonal Hearing SolutionsPetaluma Arts CenterPetaluma Auto PartsPetaluma Educational FoundationPetaluma Host Lions
Petaluma Kiwanis ClubPetaluma PlazaPetaluma PoultryPetaluma Village Premium OutletsPetaluma-Hamilton Lodge #180Peterson’s Paint & DecoratingPisenti & Brinker LLPPraetzel’s Fine Furniture & Tempurpedic ShowroomsPreferred Sonoma CaterersPuffy Hamster StudiosPure Luxury Limousine ServiceQuality InnRamfire Building MaintenanceReynolds Battery Service, Inc.Rolling Hills Mortgage and Real EstateRotary Club of PetalumaRotary Club of Petaluma SunriseSan Francisco North/ Petaluma Campgrounds, Inc.ServproShamrock Materials, Inc.Sky Hill Institute School of Wholistic Healing ArtsSonoma AcademySonoma County Regional Parks/ Veterans HallsSonoma Travel ServiceSonoma-Marin FairSonoMarin Cleaning Services, Inc.Stantec Architecture Inc.Straus Family CreameryThe 101 CasinoThe Petaluma Argus-CourierThe Press DemocratUltimate Limosine ServiceValley Orchards Retirement CommunityVan Bebber Brothers, Inc.Vintage Bank AntiquesVolpi’s Ristorante & BarWagner Health CenterWashington Square AssociatesWashington Square Veterinary ClinicWells Fargo Insurance ServicesWhitman & Samuelson Insurance Services, Inc.Willibees Wines & SpiritsYoga Spark
Long-Time MembersSonoma Travel Service, 42 YearsTina PowellHydrex Pest Control of North California, 32 YearsDarlene GradyDon Bennett & Associates, 31 YearsDon BennettQuality Inn, 26 YearsJim BlackmanVolpi’s Ristorante & Bar, 24 YearsMary Lee VolpiOld Republic Title Company, 22 YearsJulie JamesArchitectural Design & Restoration, 21 YearsRick BreretonPetaluma Educational Foundation, 21 YearsJanet RamaticiPeterson’s Paint & Decorating, 16 YearsSean LilePetaluma Village Premium Outlets, 16 YearsAnne-Marie WoodsPetaluma Kiwanis Club, 15 YearsMcKenzie SmithGraziano’s Ristorante, 13 YearsGraziano PerozziWhitman & Samuelson Insurance Services, Inc., 13 YearsJ. Scott WhitmanPreferred Sonoma Caterers, 13 YearsAmber BalshawJim Stern, NMT, 13 YearsJim SternBank of Marin, Marina Branch, 10 YearsAugie AcunaRotary Club of Petaluma, 10 YearsPresident Wagner Health Center, 10 YearsGeorge Wagner
Petaluma Business – A publication of the PACC �������September 2010��������15
The Redwood Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free business counseling to small businesses.
• Develop a business plan• Review & enhance an existing business plan
A representative from the SBDC will be at the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce office every other Tuesday.
For more information and an appointment, contact Santana MacInnes at (707) 524-1770.
FREE Business Counseling
Looking Ahead – October
7 2010 Petaluma Business Expo
14 Business After Hours – Sky Hill Institute School of Wholistic Healing Arts
21 Business After Hours – Rivertown - BNI
26 Wake Up Petaluma
3 Government AffairsPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 7:30 A.M.
5 Labor Day Observance – PACC Office Closed
7 AmbassadorsPetaluma Valley Hospital, Pat Schaefer’s Office 400 N McDowell Blvd.7:30 A.M
14 Women in Business Breakfast/SeminarPetaluma Women’s Club 518 B St. 7:30 – 9:00 A.M.
16 Business After Hours – Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory and Papa’s Taverna5688 Lakeville Hwy. 5:30 – 7:30 P.M.
17 Government AffairsPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 7:30 A.M.
21 Leadership AlumniPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 9:00 – 10:00 A.M.
21 AgribusinessSonoma-Marin Fair Conference Room, 175 Fairgrounds Dr. 12:00 Noon
23 Business After Hours – Lagunitas Brewing Company1280 N. McDowell Blvd. 5:30 – 7:30 P.M.
28 Wake Up Petaluma (RSVP)Rooster Run Event Center2301 E. Washington$20 Members, $25 Nonmembers RSVP: 762-2785 7:30 – 9:00 A.M.
30 Leadership Alumni 2nd Annual BBQ Petaluma Yacht Club 10 C St. 5:30 –7:30 P.M.
Have you checked out our online calendar? Visit www.petalumachamber.com and click on the Calendar button!
Calendar – September
Pre-register for RSVP events: mail a check, payable to PACC, to: PACC, 6 Petaluma Blvd. North, #A-2, Peta luma, CA 94952. Call 762-2785 for info.
Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory and Papa’s Tavernainvite you to a Petaluma Chamber of Commerce
Business After Hours mixer
Thursday, September 16, 20105:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Papa’s Taverna5688 Lakeville Hwy., Petaluma, CA 94954
Featuring authentic Greek cuisine, cocktails, bellydancing, bellydancing lessons and raffle prizes
