Voice

On the Web: www.ffsc-chamber.com Youth Business

The Bootcamp set
for June 13-17
FAI R FI E LD -S U IS U N C IT Y By Charles Eason
C HAM B E R O F CO M M E R C E Director of the Solano College Small
Business Development Center

The Solano College Small

June 2011 Business Development Center
will be conducting a Summer
Youth Business Bootcamp the
OUR MISSION: Improve the local economic base through active advocacy and programs to assist our members. week of June 13-17 for youth
who want to learn about

Hoover, Cortez
becoming an entrepreneur.
Funding for the program is
coming from a grant from the
California Community College
Chancellor’s Office. There is no
cost for youth ages 14 to 27 to
participate.

join Board of Directors During the five-day Boot-

camp, youth will be developing
a business plan for a real or
virtual business that they

T
choose. Youth will have the
he Fairfield-Suisun
City Chamber of
The Feted and accounting. When the opportunity to hear from a
Hoover family became owners variety of guest speakers and
Commerce and Festive of the company in 1975, there there are also plans to have the
welcomes two Join us for our Installation Luncheon were only two employees
from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 29 Monte Hoover youth go on field trips to local
new members and they leased a businesses to learn from
– Monte Hoover and at the Hilton Garden Inn. We will
1,000-square-foot successful entrepreneurs. Youth
Mike Cortez – to its board recognize the Business of the Year,
building space. Today, the will also have an opportunity to
of directors. Teacher of the Year, KI Jones winner,
Ambassador of the Year and Citizen of company employs 15 and practice running a business
Monte Hoover is operates out of a using a software simulation
president and general the Year. New board members and
outgoing board members will also be 19,000-square-foot build- called Lemonade Tycoon. On
manager of Gillespie’s Abbey ing, which they purchased in Friday, the youth will give a
recognized. Please RSVP at
Carpet & Floors, a company 1996. short presentation on their
425-4625.
established in 1934. The Hoover In 1998, Gillespie’s design business plans.
family has owned and operated the showroom was selected by Abbey The Business Boot camp will
company for 36 years. Monte started in Buying Group to be previewed in their be part of a series of activities
the company as a cleaning technician and over national advertising campaign. Over the past funded by the Young Entrepre-
the years has been responsible for project neur Program. In September,
five years, Monte has led the company through
management, writing procedure/policy the College will be hosting a
the last recession and completed a turn-around
manuals, business planning, budget, sales, Virtual Enterprise day at the
marketing, safety training, human resources See Board, Page 7 Mike Cortez college for high school Virtual
Enterprise classes. A second
annual Youth Business Plan
chairman’s Club president’s Club Diamond Club premier Club competition is planned for
•Anheuser-Busch •B & L Properties •Costco of Fairfield •Solano Athletic Clubs December with separate
•Emerson West Coast •Goodrich UPCO •Wal-Mart
Director’s Club Engineering, The •Quality Inn & Suites •Westamerica Bank See Youth, Page 6
•Copart •Bryan-Braker Funeral Home •Kaiser Permanente
•Credit Bureau Associates •M2 Mail
•Hilton Garden Inn
•Lewis Planned Communities
•Daily Republic •Pacific Gas & Electric upcomingevent
•First Northern Bank •Potrero Hills Landfill
•MV Transportation
•Solano Garbage Company
•Sutter Health (SRMF/
•Ford Lincoln Fairfield
•Gaw Van Male
•PRIDE Industries
•Raley’s Super Stores
6.13 Joint Mixer at the
Suisun Waterfront

SSMC)
•RE/MAX Gold Elite
•Rexam Beverage Can Co. 6.29 Sunrise Mixer at
Solano Land Trust
 THE VOICE The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce
2 June 2011 www.ffsc-chamber.com
Board of Directors
2010 - 2011
• CHAIR
Kevin Johnson Hilton Garden Inn Reflections of Leadership

I
• CHAIRMAN ELECT
Barry Young Solano Athletic Clubs
• VICE CHAIR/TREASURER from the desk of t is the time of the year when we look at the
Christopher Barto Copart Inc.
• VICE CHAIR membership organization and recognize : Website numbers, referrals
T. Burt McNaughton
Daily Republic members for what they have contributed to for April 2011
• VICE CHAIR the Chamber and the community. The
Sue Vaccaro Unique visitors: 2,650
Solano Garbage/Republic Services Annual Awards/Installation Luncheon will
• IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
be held June 29 at the Hilton Garden Inn. Please Total visitors: 8,399
Anand Patel
Fairfield Tourism Association watch for the E-vites to go out soon! We look Total page hits: 64,400
• DIRECTORS forward to seeing you there to join in the recog- Member referrals: 50
Andy Anderson nition ceremony.
Travis Credit Union
Ken Brock I would like to take this opportunity to
Brock Law Group, APC
recognize our very own Sherry McKillop, Authentic Teamwork – which is a concept that
Randy Dawson
Premier Commercial President/CEO executive director of Leadership Today Sherry created and trademarked: Implementa-
Kevin Finger
Anheuser-Busch
Jim Immer
Leslie Fay Program. Just today, I received notice that tion of principals that identify strengths, oppor-
Lewis Planned Communities Sherry will be one of the recipients of the Pre- tunities to use strengths, acknowledgement of
John Jamison
Jelly Belly Candy Company
ceptor Award from the Association of Leader- others, and creating and enrolling others in an
Steve Lessler ship Professionals. The definition of preceptor: inspired mission and vision.
The Lessler Group
Ron Marlette Individuals with a level of expertise making Sherry herself demonstrates effective com-
Mission Solano them capable of lending guidance to other munication skills. She believes in her program
Don McDonald
RE/MAX Gold Elite Leadership programs. and clearly states the expectations of each
Bridgit Strachan
NorthBay Healthcare Sherry is a trained coach and has worked with participant. Teamwork is most important in
Anthony Russo many organizations, individuals and other order for the participants to achieve their goals.
B&L Properties
David Welch groups, helping them to resolve conflicts. She is She assists the participants in creating their
David L. Welch, CPA
an exemplary leader in her industry. individual mission, which helps them pursue
• EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Sherry will be recognized for her successful their paths and meaningful contribution to the
Harry Price
City of Fairfield Mayor leadership development efforts. She meets the community. She encourages participants to
Pete Sanchez
City of Suisun City Major criteria for the award because she has incorpo- take ownership of the program.
Dr. Jowel Laguerre
Solano CC, President
rated more leadership skills and competency Sherry will be awarded this prestigious award
training into the program. This makes the in Dallas, Texas, this June. We celebrate her
• COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Mike Cortez Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce Lead- accomplishments and wish her the very best!
Chief Ambassador
Chuck Wood
ership program unique. She introduced, Congratulations Sherry!
Chair, Business Issues modeled and implemented the principals of
Darrin Berardi
Chair, Education
Steve Lessler
Chair, Membership
Mike Cortez
Chair, Technology
Sandy Person
Chair, TRAFC

• CHAMBER STAFF
Leslie Fay citation Club
6 Chamber Events
President & CEO CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
•Amos & Andrews, Inc. •enXco •Paradise Valley Estates
Melissa Manry
Administrative Assistant •AT&T •Fairfield Tourism •Taco Bell 3 We’ve Accomplished
Debi Tavey •Ball Corporation Association •Umpqua Bank a Lot This Year 7 Shopping Locally
Community Relations Director •Cache Creek Casino •Food Maxx – North •Video Pro Productions
Resort Texas •Watson Auto Body, Inc. By Kevin Johnson Makes Sense, Saves
inside Cents, Makes Cents
The Voice •Charles B. Wood II
•Creegan & D’Angelo
•Food Maxx – West
Texas
•Wells Fargo Bank
•Westfield Solano this Leadership Today
Program In Its SUISUN CITY MANAGER
8 Seals and Sharks and
Engineers •Gateway Health Alliance •Yin McDonald’s
is published monthly by the
Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber •Emeritus at Rancho •IHOP of Fairfield •Yocha-De-He Golf Club issue Fourth Year
of Commerce Solano •Meyer Corporation at Cache Creek Suisun City
1111 Webster Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
4 Business News By Suzanne Bragdon
5 Calendar
707.425.4625
707.425.0826 / Fax
melissa@ffsc-chamber.com past chairs Circle 9 New Members
www.ffsc-chamber.com
•Ed Lippstreau •Ray Schoch •Ben Huber •Kathy Parsons
Printing by: Daily Republic 76-77 94-95 98-99 01-12
For advertising call: 425-4646

www.ffsc-chamber.com June 2011 3
: Opportunities to build business relationships
We’ve accomplished
a lot this year
O
n this, my next to last
newsletter as the
Chairman of the
Chamber of Commerce, I felt it
was time to give everyone a
quick look back over the past
year. It has been an interesting
year. A lot has been accom-
plished and there were a few
challenges along the way, as
well.
First, I want to congratulate
Mark Creffield on his accom-
plishments and give him a
thank you for all he has done for
the Fairfield-Suisun Chamber.
Mark left to become the Presi-
dent of the Vacaville Chamber
and is doing an outstanding job
for them as he did when he was
the Vice President here in
Fairfield. Mark, thank you for
continuing the relationship that
these two cities have had over
the years, and for strengthening
that relationship even more
since taking your new position.
Thanks for all you do and
continue to do.
Debi Tavey came in as a new
face to the Chamber and has
really worked hard to get
involved not only in the mem-
bership aspect of the Chamber,
but in marketing and promot-
ing as well as providing a great
second opinion of issues and
situations that arise from day to
day. Debi, you are an asset not
only to the Chamber but the
cities of Fairfield and Suisun, as
well. It has been my pleasure to
work alongside you and watch
the energy that you bring to this
Chamber.
Melissa, what can I say? Here
is one of the hardest working
Kevin Johnson
Chairman of the Board
young ladies that I know. You
would be hard-pressed to find
someone more dedicated than
Melissa on her day-to-day tasks, advice helped steer this
as well as taking on the respon- Chamber through some tough
sibilities that are handed to her
for all the special events that the these past couple of years and
Chamber puts on. With Melissa, yet we have survived and only
they are usually flawless.
Melissa, get your education
completed and you will go far in
this world, as you are truly a
special person.
Leslie, your leadership has
been put to the test this year,
with all the changes internally
that we have seen, and I am
pleased to see you step up and
meet all the challenges head on. that I have served with these
You have a great board of
directors to work with and your privilege to work alongside each
new Chair, Barry Young, will do of you in a common goal.
an excellent job for and with you
in leading this Chamber
forward in the future.
I am also very happy to
inform everyone that our
Leadership program has won a
national award for excellence.
Great job, everyone!
I have ultimate faith and
confidence in these individuals
who are your day-to-day
The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE
Leadership Today
program in its fourth
year of cultivating leaders
Wisdom will tell you that
leadership is a challenging
journey. For the 14 members of
The program is designed to
give participants an experi-
ence of a high-performing
the 2011 Leadership Today team and the ability to recreate
Chamber staff. Under your
program, it has been a fast- it in their places of work and on
guidance I know we will
paced and mind-expanding the boards and committees
continue to provide the busi-
experience. The Fairfield- they will serve. It is run under
ness members with more than
Suisun Chamber of Com- the capable direction of Sherry
what they pay in dues, with the
merce’s community leadership McKillop whose company,
assistance that you and our staff
program came into existence Follow Your Compass, special-
provide.
in 2008 with the intention to izes in team and leadership
Anand Patel, thank you for
cultivate knowledgeable, development.
allowing me to follow in your
skilled, committed and active The Leadership Today
footsteps as Chairman. Anand
leaders for our community. program is only possible with
is a great guy and a very intelli-
gent business person as well. I
Participants meet monthly funding from corporate
to develop practical skills and sponsors and participant fees.
have learned a lot from watch-
knowledge in the following In 2009, NorthBay Healthcare
ing you over these past few
leadership competencies: committed to three years as
years, and it truly was a privi-
Effective Communication, the program’s top “Lighthouse
lege to follow you in this role.
Making Group Decisions, Sponsor” and they committed
Your continuing support and
Collaboration, Leading to an additional year in 2012.
Community Change, Manag- “NorthBay has set a very
ing Conflict and Conducting high standard in leading by
economic and turbulent times
Effective Meetings. In addi- example with their commit-
tion, they get an up-close look
ment to developing leaders
(through half-day field visits)
become a stronger both internally and in our
into eight aspects of our
organization. community. We are very lucky
community: History, Eco-
To all the Chamber Board to have an organization that is
nomic Development, Govern-
and volunteers, thank you as committed to so many aspects
ment, Education, Social
well. I realize serving on a board of the well-being of our
Services, Criminal Justice,
is a volunteer position, but the
Healthcare, and the Air Force. See Leadership, Page 11
commitment and hours
required to do this job and do it
well are not taken lightly. I
thank each and every one of you
past six years, and it is truly a
To the Ambassadors, another
thank you from the bottom of
my heart. I don’t know if anyone
realizes what it takes to put on a
monthly mixer, ribbon cutting
event, business expo, annual
fundraising dinner, golf outing
– not mention the sunrise
events and other things that you
all do. What a great group of
See Johnson, Page 11
 THE VOICE The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce
4 June 2011 www.ffsc-chamber.com
game for the entire 2011 season. season concludes with a home Rollin and Augustine were

Business News
Tell us about your accomplishments, promotions and items of
The event – called Strike Out
Cancer – will be officially kicked
off on Saturday, June 11, during
the game at Raley Field in
game on Sept. 1.
For more information, go to
www.rivercats.com or
www.strikeoutcancer.com.
appointed in 2010 to vacancies
created by the retirements of
board members Jim Porter and
Stu McIntosh.
interest regarding your business. E-mail a press release to the Sacramento. Genentech Pardini was selected by the
Chamber at: debi@ffsc-chamber.com or fax it to 707-425-0826. officials estimate that, based on nominating committee to fill
previous River Cats strike out
averages, it could ultimately
Travis Credit Union the vacancy created by the
retirement of board member
NorthBay offers donated to the NorthBay Center
for Women’s Health. result in a donation of around names Board of Charles Dawes.
free seminar on The pink fire trucks will be $50,000 to the Cancer Center. Directors There was one vacancy on
This is the first time such a the Supervisory Committee.
joint pain on display Friday in Fairfield at
partnership has been formed to Travis Credit Union Johanna Benker, who was
a location still to be determined.
Is joint pain or arthritis is benefit the NorthBay Cancer announced its 2011-12 volunteer selected by the Nominating
On Saturday, the trucks visit
keeping you from doing the Center, and “we are honored to Board of Directors and Supervi- Committee to fill a vacancy
Vacaville, with one fire truck
things you love? Have you ever have been selected and feel sory Committee at its 60th created by the retirement of
joining the NorthBay Health-
wondered if joint replacement privileged to be associated with annual meeting, held on April Mark DuPree, ran unopposed
care parade entry, one spending
surgery is for you? The North- these two organizations,” says 28. for a three-year term.
the day at Andrews Park and
Bay Advanced Steven Ferris, director of the Board Director Dee Alarcon, All candidates running for
one parked at Fenton’s Cream-
Medicine NorthBay Cancer Center. chair of Travis Credit Union’s the Board of Directors and
ery at Nut Tree Plaza.
Lecture Series At least one NorthBay Cancer Nominating Committee, Supervisory Committee were
presents “Don’t Center patient will be honored reported on behalf of the unopposed and therefore
Let Joint Pain during the event. The patient committee and announced the elected by acclamation at the
Get You Down,” Strike Out Cancer and her family will be offered an election results. TCU’s 2011-12 annual meeting in accordance
on Thursday, event to benefit opportunity to throw out the board of directors includes:
Curt Newland, chair; Pat
with the credit union’s bylaws.
June 9. first pitch, to mingle with Patsy Van Ouwerkerk,
Join orthope-
NorthBay Cancer Genentech employees and to Moreno, vice chair; Mary president and CEO of Travis
brooks
dic surgeon Center enjoy the game from special Coburn, secretary; Thomas Credit Union, thanked the
Andrew Brooks, M.D., as he seating at the ballpark. Kulinski, treasurer; Deborah board members for their
The NorthBay Cancer Center A number of Genentech Aspling, director; Ann Rollin, volunteer service to the credit
discusses joint health and the
recently learned it will be the employees have also volun- director; Len Augustine, union and stated, “This dedi-
latest techniques in joint
beneficiary of a fundraising teered to conduct a raffle at the director; Scott Pardini, director; cated group of individuals has
replacement.
event organized by Genentech, game, to raise additional funds. and Dee Alarcon, director. consistently made decisions
The seminar begins at 6 p.m.
a member of the Roche Group, The Sacramento River Cats Incumbents Debbie Aspling, based on what is best for credit
at the NorthBay Healthcare
and the Sacramento River Cats play the Tacoma Rainiers on Ann Rollin and Tom Kulinski union members and for our
Administration Center,
baseball team. this day, with the first pitch were elected to three-year cooperative community. I
4500 Business Center Drive in
Genentech Vacaville has going out at 7:05 p.m. terms. Incumbent Len Augus- appreciate their commitment of
Fairfield. The seminars are free,
agreed to make a donation of As of the last home game on tine was elected to a two-year service to Travis Credit Union
but space is limited. Please
$100 for each strike out the River May 12, the River Cats had term and Scott Pardini was
RSVP by calling 707-646-3280.
Cats make during every home recorded 256 strike outs. The elected to a one-year term. See News, Page 10

Pink Heals Tour set RE/MAX Gold - Annie Vogelpohl & Associates
for May 28 as part
of Fiesta Days Annie Vogelpohl
ANNIE VOGELPOHL
Broker CRS, LTG, RRC
NorthBay Healthcare is
proud to announce that the Office: (707) 399-6959
Pink Heals Tour is joining our Cellular: (707) 373-6949
Fiesta Days parade entry in anniev@anniev.com
Vacaville May 28. This is the first www.annievogelpohl.net
time these famous pink fire
trucks will be in California and For the answers to your
they will be on display for real estate questions call
everyone to see. Annie today!
The Pink Heals Tour is
dedicated to raising money for
1411 Oliver Road, Suite 180
breast cancer. The funds raised Fairfield, CA 94534
in our community will be
 The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE
www.ffsc-chamber.com June 2011 5

calendar June and July

I I I
June AMBASSADOR SUISUN CITY BUSINESS July TRAFC CHAMBER’S BUSINESS July BOARD OF
7
TUE
COMMITTEE
MEETING
GROUP MEETING
Noon to 1:30 p.m.
11
mon
EXECUTIVE
MEETING
AFTER HOURS MIXER
5:30 to 7 p.m.
26 tue
DIRECTORS
MEETING
8 to 9 a.m. Suisun City Council Chambers, 9 to 10 a.m. Sutter Medical Foundation, 9 to 10:15 a.m.
Courtyard by Marriott, 1350 Holiday 701 Civic Center Blvd. Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of 2720 Low Court, Fairfield Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of

I I
Lane, Fairfield Commerce, 1111 Webster Street Commerce, 1111 Webster Street

I I I
June TRAVIS July MEMBERSHIP
June

8
BUSINESS
ISSUES 20mon
REGIONAL
ARMED FORCES
13
July BUSINESS
ISSUES 21 thu
COMMITTEE
MEETING
27
July CHAMBER’S
SUNRISE MIXER
wed
COMMITTEE COMMITTEE wed
COMMITTEE 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. wed 8 to 9 a.m.
MEETING MEETING MEETING Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of RnB Smoke House,
Noon to 1 p.m. Noon to 1:15 p.m. Noon to 1 p.m. Commerce, 1111 Webster Street 1350 Holiday Lane, Fairfield
Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Delta Breeze Club, Travis AFB Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of

I
Commerce, 1111 Webster Street Commerce, 1111 Webster Street SUISUN CITY BUSINESS

I I
June BOARD OF GROUP MEETING
June

13
TRAFC
EXECUTIVE 28 TUE
DIRECTORS
MEETING
18
July TRAVIS
REGIONAL
Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Suisun City Council Chambers,
LOOK FOR eSHEETS
ON OUR WEBSITE
mon
MEETING 9 to 10:15 a.m. mon
ARMED FORCES 701 Civic Center Blvd.
9 to 10 a.m. Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of COMMITTEE
Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce, 1111 Webster Street MEETING

I
Commerce, 1111 Webster Street Noon to 1:15 p.m.
June CHAMBER’S Delta Breeze Club, Travis AFB
BUSINESS AFTER
HOURS MIXER/JOINT 29wed
SUNRISE MIXER
8 to 9 a.m.
RIBBON-CUTTING WITH Solano Land Trust,
VACAVILLE CHAMBER 1001 Texas St., Ste. C
5:30 to 7 p.m.
Hampton Inn & Suites Suisun City BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Waterfront, The Wiseman Company, INSTALLATION
& KUIC 95.3, One Harbor Center, LUNCHEON
Suisun City, 94585 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

I
June Hilton Garden Inn-Fairfield,
MEMBERSHIP 2200 Gateway Ct., Fairfield
16
I
COMMITTEE
MEETING July AMBASSADOR
5
thu
9:30 to 10:30 a.m. COMMITTEE
Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of TUE
MEETING
Commerce, 1111 Webster Street 8 to 9 a.m.
Courtyard by Marriott, 1350 Holiday
Lane, Fairfield

join the chamber:

call 425.4625
or visit www.ffsc-
chamber.com
 THE VOICE The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce
6 June 2011 www.ffsc-chamber.com
Youth, from page 1
divisions for middle
school, high school, and
college students. The
Golf
Business Bootcamp is Hiddenbrooke Golf Course
designed to prepare youth 1095 Hiddenbrooke Parkway, Vallejo
to participate in the
business plan competition
this Fall.
As mentioned in a
previous article, the Solano
College SBDC has also
signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with Youth
Business America, a
non-profit organization
that is looking to fund
businesses started by
young entrepreneurs 18-35
years of age who otherwise
would lack access to
capital. The Solano College
SBDC is looking for
promising young entrepre-
neurs to refer to Youth
Business America (YBA) Ambassadors Roger Studebaker of CR Funding,
for potential funding. Sandy Stelter of Strategic Organizing Solutions
Participants in the Fall and Kenny Lostica of Freedom Equity Group
Business Plan competition help with registration.
could be excellent candi- At right, left to right, are Monte Hoover of
dates for potential referrals Gillespies Carpet, Debi Tavey, Chamber
to the YBA program. The Community Relations, and Bobbi Martinez of
YBA loan opportunity will Trade Mark Advertising.
provide another incentive

RibbonCuttings
for young entrepreneurs to
participate in the business
plan competition. Loan
amounts can range from
$5,000 to $25,000 to fund a
new business or fund
Holly Mattice Law Office Bangkok Paradise
development of an existing 547 Jefferson St., Suite A Thai Restaurant
business that has been in 3342 North Texas St.
full operations for less than
12 months. No collateral or
third party guarantees will
be required. YBA’s lending
decision will be based on
the character of the
individual borrower, the
quality of the business
plan, and the borrower’s
demonstration of ability to
repay the loan.
To learn more about the
Youth Business Bootcamp,
contact the Solano College
SBDC at 864-3382 or visit Yin Ko and family from Bangkok Paradise prepare for the
www.solanosbdc.org. Holly Mattice Ambassador’s taste of the menu. Yummy!
 The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE
www.ffsc-chamber.com June 2011 7

Shopping locally makes sense, saves cents, makes cents

By Andy Anderson thought to the fact that beverage out of town, that is to LocalCents and invite our have the tasty sweet potato for
Board Member, North Texas Street 1 percent of every dollar that we $7.82 a year that our city’s friends to join also. We all need dessert.
Business Association spend locally goes to the general fund loses. If all Fair- to develop a local shopping list Shoes: Payless, 1936 North
Today’s average consumer municipal general fund for the field residents share this habit, like the one below that Cathe- Texas St.
mindset is “shop value.” Yes, city of Fairfield. In short, since that’s $860,200 in general fund rine has put together. Time to get some fun new
with high unemployment, we live in Fairfield it makes losses for the city of Fairfield sandals for summer!
sense to shop locally. If we go annually! Catherine’s shopping list Salon: The Hair Place Plus,
uncertainty regarding our
online and spend $100, our local Our shopping habits have an Dinner to go: Mexico Meat 1819 North Texas St., next to
economic recovery and gas
government will miss out on impact on the quality of life that Market, 1950 North Texas St. Food Maxx in the Oakmont
prices going up without a ceiling
$1 for the general fund. How we enjoy. We all need to con- Pre-marinated chicken or Shopping Center.
in sight, we are increasingly
many of us regularly spend sider the value of shopping steak fajitas. Inexpensive and Very clean, modern facility
aware of the value we receive for
$100 online? Does everyone? locally, because shopping ready to cook and eat in minutes with those fabulous spa chairs for
each dollar we spend.
Probably, but it is hard to say. locally makes sense. We all need the optimal pedicure experience.
But are we? We look at the for an easy, tasty, healthy dinner.
There are almost 110,000 people to join Catherine Grimard and Time for a pedicure in time for
cost per ounce when choosing Restaurant: New! Bangkok
who live in Fairfield. If the Margaret Manzo, executive sandal season.
one jar of pickles over another, Paradise Thai Restaurant
average resident of Fairfield directors of our local business
the “buy one get one free” sale This business just opened in We all owe it to our commu-
spends $100 online six times per associations – The North Texas
holds a lot of weight when year, the city of Fairfield’s Street Business Association and the Hillside Terrace Shopping nity to join in and shop locally.
choosing one brand over general fund loses $660,000. We The Fairfield Main Street Center, 3342 North Texas St. Remember, shopping locally
another, and we think critically might be saving money short- Association – in their mission to Fantastic fresh vegetables and makes sense because it saves
about our Netflix subscriptions. term by finding deals online, share the value of shopping tasty, mouth-watering curries cents and brings in cents to the
Will we actually watch two but what is it costing our locally, and create a shopping and sauces. city of Fairfield and our local
movies at a time? In a lot of ways community? Our quality of life? revolution that changes the Dessert: Texas Roadhouse merchants.
we do a great job brainstorming How about buying lunch out business and community in 3333 North Texas St. Please contact Catherine
ways to save money and add of town? Do you regularly buy a Fairfield. We all need to log on to The loaded sweet potato: Grimard at the North Texas
value. So, why are so many of us cup of coffee at Starbucks on the Local Cents Blog being Comes as one of two sides for an Street Business Association by
completely missing the bottom your way into or out of town for presented to us by our two entrée or order it on its own! With phone at 421-9085 or Margaret
line when it comes to shopping a meeting or appointment? Catherine and Margaret at melted marshmallows, brown Manzo at the Fairfield Main
locally? Think about this: if you spend www.localcents.wordpress sugar and butter, it’s my favorite Street Association by phone at
We all need to give some $15 every week on food and .com. We all need to subscribe way to eat a sweet potato. I like to 422-0103.

Board, from page 1

plan that has once again placed
the company in a profitable
growth mode.
In 1988, Monte was elected to
the board of directors for the
Carpet & Fabric Institute and
served in this capacity until
1991. He was responsible for
assisting the organization in
doubling their membership and
increasing revenues. Monte
organized, hosted and was a
speaker at many educational
opportunities for the members.
He was awarded Director of the
Year in 1989 for his many
contributions.
Monte graduated from
Vacaville High School and
Solano Community College
with a degree in marketing and
management. He also
completed the Business
Academy Entrepreneurial
Training Program through the
University of Phoenix. He is a
Certified Flooring Professional
through the World Floor
Covering Association and a
Certified Textile Consultant
through the Institute of Inspec-
tion, Cleaning and Restoration
Certification.
Monte is a 35-year member of
the Chamber of Commerce and
began attending mixers with his
parents, Russ and Charlene
Hoover, when he was only
18 years old. He has served as an
ambassador for the past two
years for the Fairfield-Suisun
Chamber of Commerce, and is
also an ambassador for the
Vacaville Chamber of
M
Commerce. He is a member of
the Solano Business Group and
a founding member of the
Northbay Contractors Alliance.
He serves on the Yippie Founda-
tion Advisory Board and is also
a mentor for the youth in the
organization. He is a committee
member of the Annual Tomato
Festival. This summer, he will
be employing an at-risk student
for The Dream Team, a Fair-
field-based organization.
Monte will bring his vast
experience in running a
business and his community
support to the Chamber’s Board
of Directors. He is always
focused on his mission to
improve the health, image and
community respect of any
organization he represents.
ike Cortez owns
TechPro Source, a
professional technology
service company that provides
information technology
support for the small business
customer. They serve as an
extension of the business and
can be called upon to develop,
troubleshoot, consult, plan and
recommend solutions for every
technology need in every
organization.
TechPro Source currently
maintains more than 40 servers
and 300 workstations serving
more than 200 businesses
throughout Solano County.
Their customers vary from a
municipality to a mom-and-
pop shop. TechPro Source
received the Fairfield-Suisun
Chamber of Commerce’s Spirit
of Solano Award in 2010.
Over the past year, Mike has
served as Chief Ambassador
with the Fairfield-Suisun
Chamber. Under his tenure, the
Chamber hosted the 2010
Ambassador Rally. The rally
brought attendees from as far
south as Clovis and as far north
as Redding. Mike continuously
keeps the Chamber’s technol-
ogy current.
He recently joined the fourth
class of Leadership Today. His
desire is to further his skills as
CEO of TechPro Source and to
build on established relation-
ships as a member of the
Chamber, while creating new
partnerships through Leader-
ship Today.
 THE VOICE The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce
8 June 2011 www.ffsc-chamber.com
Seals and sharks, and Suisun City
I
hope you’re wondering what
in the world “seals and
sharks” could possibly have
to do with Suisun City. And
before your imagination goes
too far afield, no, we haven’t had
a shark-attacking-a-seal
incident on the waterfront.
If I toss “patriotic” into the
mix, does it start to make sense?
Probably not. I guess you’re just
going to need to read a little bit
further . . .
Let’s start with seals.
Navy Seals.
That was one of the top
Google searches after bin
Laden’s take down. I was one of
those Googlers, and found a
book that gets into what it takes
to build a Navy Seal team. It
then applies those same
concepts to the world we mere
humans live in, whether you’re
a leader in the public or private
sector.
Check it out. “Team Secrets
of the Navy Seals,” author
– Anonymous. If you have a
Kindle, you can download the
book for free! The book covers
12 lessons in so many chapters
after providing some back-
ground on the Seal teams
themselves.
This book has had an impact
on me. As I’m not a gung-ho
warrior type, it surprised me.
Until I pulled back and reflected
on the times we’re going
through. Right now. This, BTW,
is the tie-in to Suisun City.
Budget time
We’re in the middle of a
budget. Assessed values are
projected to fall yet again, but
thankfully by only 3 percent.
With the further hurdles of the
State RWQCB and their regula-
tory hurdles, Walmart has been
delayed yet another six months.
frogman when it’s sunny.” reminder that we choose to do group has played with Jimmy
Hmm. Being a leader when the job we’re doing. As our Buffet and the Beach Boys.
times are good, might be fun choice, we need to be sure to From a gig in Sacramento, they
– but isn’t it really when times toss some fun into the mix. If we are squeezing in a stop at
aren’t so sunny that we really only hold on to the horrors of Suisun City before heading off
get to show our stuff? Our what we face, we won’t be to Boston.
capabilities? Our creativity? effective in the roles we’re To make this a blow-out
When we have to pull from our charged to carry out. weekend, we are also celebrat-
inner resources, which we So for the fun: ing the 150th anniversary of our
thought were depleted two long • June 11: A Rock & Roll Fire Department with a Fire-
years ago in the middle of the Beach Party! men’s Muster. If you don’t know
Suzanne Bragdon economic free-fall? • June 11-12: Firemen’s what a “muster” is, Google it.
Suisun City Manager We’re talking old-fashion,
That takes teamwork at all Muster
levels. For us, that includes the • June 13: Joint Chamber small-town fun! Competitions
Which means we need more run along Main Street on
City Council, our management Mixer
money to “bridge” until new Saturday and Sunday after a
team and our line-service • June 14: Tops in Blue
sales tax revenue comes on the traditional fireman’s breakfast
books. That’s another providers. Just like the Seals. On June 11, the Landsharks
(public invited!)
$1.1 million to find. will be headlining Suisun City’s
What about the sharks? Continue onto Monday. The
Then there’s contingency annual Shorefest – a rock and
annual joint Fairfield-Vacaville
planning for the big unknowns Actually, “Landsharks.” roll beach party. If you love ’60s
Chamber mixer will be held on
from the state – will redevelop- This is the best part. A closing and ’70s rock ’n’ roll, you are in
ment be eliminated and add a thought from the Seals is the for a treat! This Florida-based See Bragdon, Page 9
further $1 million-plus loss to
our general fund, as well as
crippling our economic devel-
opment and job creation
efforts?
The challenges feel oppres-
sive. But, at this writing, our
management team with their
staff, have pulled together a
balanced budget proposal for
Council consideration. Dates
and times for our budget
workshop and public hearing
will be announced shortly.
The budget proposal takes
advantage of recently vacated
positions, adds additional tasks
to everyone’s plate while
maintaining strong reserves to
address an uncertain future. We
can’t do everything we’d like to,
which doesn’t sit well, but we’re
trying to keep things afloat. The
state, county and non-profit
sectors are in the same boat. It’s
tough.
Back to the Seals
But then I read in the Seals
book: “Everyone wants to be a

www.ffsc-chamber.com June 2011 9
NEW
MEMBERS
April 2011
• Allstate Insurance
Kris Speegle
1339 Oliver Rd.
Fairfield, CA 94534
Phone: 707-425-1045
Insurance
• Chick-Fil-A
Annette Fortney
1350 Travis Blvd., Ste. 1516B
Fairfield, CA 94533
Phone: 707-427-3317
Restaurant
• Juanita J. Martin-Poet
Laureate City of Fairfield
Juanita Martin
P.O. Box 390
Fairfield, CA 94533
Phone: 707-419-2408
Writer-Poet
• Trade Market Advertising
Tracy Mitchell
P.O. Box 6651
Vacaville, CA 95696
Phone: 707-689-0107
Marketing
Member
Reinvest
ments
April 2011
• 7 Flags Car Wash & Express
Lube
Bragdon, from page 8
the north end of the basin. A
great event for networking and
incredible food!
Then the topper, the icing on
the cake: Tuesday night, June 14,
Flag Day. The Air Force’s elite
entertainment troupe – Tops in
Blue – will perform for free on
the Waterfront Plaza. We’re
talking top-notch entertain-
ment. If you were here three
The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE
MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES
• Cenario’s Pizza
Code Three Fire Protection
• Robert G. Dinwiddie
• Fairfield Nursing &
Rehabilitation Center
June 2011
MEMBER # OF YEARS MEMBER # OF YEARS
• Friends of the Fairfield Suisun Century 21 M&M Associates Since 1966 45 Sunpol Resins & Polymers,
Library Moretti, Ernest D. Since 1966 45 Inc. Since 1990 21
• Gillespie’s Abbey Carpet Zelinko Printing Co. Since 1966 45 Baumler, Dale R. Since 1993 18
• Guittard Chocolate Company
Bank of the West Since 1970 41 Schoch, Ray Since 1994 17
• Hilton Garden Inn-Fairfield
• Home 4 All Realty & Mortgage, Solano Garbage Co. Since 1970 41 Hilman & Lucas Since 1995 16
Inc. Wooden Valley Winery Since 1971 40 Arco AM/PM Market Since 1997 14
• Kim Stever Realty Hopkins Honda Since 1980 31 Star Airline Catering Since 1998 13
• Kevin O’Rourke-Local
Epsilon Financial Group, Inc. Since 1984 27 Waddell & Reed Since 2001 10
Government Solutions
• Old Republic Title Company Jelly Belly Candy Co. Since 1985 26 Rudy’s Auto Body & Frame Since 2001 10
• Placer Title Co. Gaw Van Male Since 1989 22 Copart, Inc. Since 2003 8
• REXAM Beverage Can Slakey Brothers, Inc. Since 1990 21 Seeno Homes
Company -Paradise Crest Since 2004 7
• Bud Ross Solano Napa Commuter
Information Since 1990 21 ABCO Laboratories, Inc. Since 2004 7
• Sir Speedy Printing
• Solano Computer Guy, The
• Solano Napa Habitat for
The Chamber recognizes long-time members (five years or more) and we thank them for their years of support.
Humanity, Inc.
• State Farm Insurance
-Gary Falati
• Strategic Organizing Solutions
• Sunnyside Farms-Super Stores
• UPS Store, The
110% Club
April 2011
• 7 Flags Car Wash & Express
Lube
• Robert G. Dinwiddie
• Fairfield Nursing &
Rehabilitation Center
• Gillespie’s Abbey Carpet
• Bud Ross
• State Farm Insurance
- Gary Falati
• Sunnyside Farms-Super Stores
years ago, you know what I
mean!
The details
So there you have it: Seals
and Sharks. When we say fun
– and patriotic – we mean it!
Check out www.VisitSuisun.
com – “events” for all the details
and “friend us” on Facebook for
ongoing updates.
join the chamber: call 425.4625
 THE VOICE The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce
10 June 2011 www.ffsc-chamber.com
How is the
law of increase
working
for you?
By Diane Fleck
The Learning Cafe
There is a difference
between man-made laws and
Universal Law. Man-made
laws give us structure and are
influenced by our culture. We
all need man-made laws or
we would run into each other
on the freeways. Universal
law is more about how the
universe works, whether we
know them or not, whether
we believe them or not. As an
example, we all know the Law
of Gravity. What goes up must
come down. We can control
how it comes down, but it
must come down.
The Law of Increase,
simply put, is that everyone
on this planet wants to
increase something. Whether
that increase might be
business, love, happiness or
joy. Increase is the natural
byproduct of growth (per-
sonal or professional) and
how we express ourselves.
Kindness and gratitude
raises man’s vibration, speeds
up his activity, stimulates his
faith and contacts a higher
realm of thought. The
outcome could be illustrated
in superior customer service,
outstanding sales, loyal
customers. In short, it makes
us feel good and we want to
be around those people, we
want to buy from those
people.
Take a look at your busi-
ness to see how the law of
increase is working for you
– then do it authentically and
consciously to increase your
business.
News, from page 4
and I’m pleased to have the
opportunity to work with them
shares are listed with the UK
Listing Authority and trade on
Mary’s has also been a loyal
member of the Chamber since
Give clay shoot
again over the coming year.” the London Stock Exchange they opened in Fairfield in 1991, your best shot
under the symbol REX. and has partnered with many
For further information, Solano Land Trust has
community organizations.
planned a fun and informative
Rexam a leader in visit Rexam’s website at
www.rexam.com.
Their pizza slices, pasta samples
fundraising event with its Aim
global consumer and mini-meatballs are a
for Ag & Open Space Sporting
familiar and welcome sight at
packaging industry Clay Shoot at 10 a.m. on Aug. 20.
our community events. For
Rexam’s vision is to be the
Mary’s Pizza Shack The day at Bird’s Landing
more information, visit
best global consumer packag- a loyal Chamber includes a 50-target sporting
www.maryspizzashack.com.
clay shoot with ammo, eye and
ing company. As one of the
largest beverage can makers in
member since 1991 ear protection and shooter’s
the world, and a major global This year, Mary’s celebrates gift. Following the clay shoot, a
player in rigid plastic packaging, 20 years of business in Fairfield. Scholarships
catered lunch, including beer
we are business partners to Mary’s Pizza Shack is a North- awarded to local and wine, will be served.
some of the world’s most ern California tradition,
originally opening in Sonoma in students
Beginners are invited to attend
famous and successful con-
sumer brands as well as young, 1959. Today, Mary’s Pizza Shack an optional gun safety clinic,
May 15 marks the 42nd
entrepreneurial start-ups. is still family-owned and beginning at 8 a.m. Awards will
Annual Award Ceremony for the
Three things characterize us operated, with founder Mary be given for the highest scoring
Assist-A-Grad Scholorship
– leadership in our industry, our Fazio’s grandson serving as squad and for top individual
Foundation, Inc., a non-profit
commitment to innovation and CEO, her great-grandsons shooters, as well as for those
our passion to deliver excep- providing voiceovers for the organization developed to
who fall in the “needs improve-
tional value. company’s radio ads, and her provide services to scholarship
ment” category.
Rexam’s sales from ongoing entire family working in the donors and graduating seniors
operations are approxi- business. within the Fairfield-Suisun-Tra- Cost is $75 per person, and it
mately $8 billion. We employ Mary’s is a valued part of the vis communities. Its major is a benefit for the Solano Land
some 22,000 people in more Fairfield community, well- Trust. Event organizers are
purpose is to communicate to
than 20 countries. We have known for donating Scholastic seeking potential sponsors, as
students the various scholar-
100 employees working at our Achievement Certificates to well as those interested in
ships that have been made.
Fairfield facility, where we each of the area grade schools
This year, a total of $127,300 providing raffle prizes.
manufacture 12-ounce alumin- (each good for one Bambino
will be awarded to 214 students. For more information, call
ium cans for local custom- pizza), supporting the local
ers such as Anheuser-Busch and youth sports teams, and for This program has given out Solano Land Trust at 432-0150,
Coca-Cola. We are a member of their Dine & Donate $2.5 million over the past or go to www.solanolandtrust.
the FTSE 100. Rexam’s ordinary fundraisers. 42 years. org.
EMERITUS AT RANCHO SOLANO
MOVE IN SPECIAL • CALL TODAY
707.425.3588
Senior Living Specializing In:
• Independent Living
• Assisted Living
• Memory Care 3350 Cherry Hills Court • Fairfield, CA 94534
Our Family is Committed to Yours.
www.Emeritus.com Community License #486801162

www.ffsc-chamber.com June 2011 11
Johnson, from page 3
individual people coming
together for a common goal of
strengthening the Chamber for
its members. Thank you all for
the hard work and dedication to
the cause. I know with the new
leadership in your organization
you will continue to make a
difference for the Chamber and
our communities.
To our current members, I
truly hope that you will engage
more with the Chamber in the
coming days, months and years
to see just what a value your
membership truly is. For the
cost of a little over a dollar per
day you cannot buy the services
and opportunities that are
available to you on a regular
basis with this membership.
The truth is that the Chamber is
not a magic bullet or pill that
can make your business a
success just by joining, but, if
you work the events, and
participate in the process and
engage with the fellow
members, it is a great start to
help you help yourself. The
information that is available
and the benefits that you derive
from that basic membership are
more than worth the cost of
admission. I hope that each of
you explore these options and I
am sure that in the coming
months you will hear more from
the staff and its leadership to
verify this true fact.
Lastly, to those not yet
involved or members of the
Chamber: Every article this year
that I wrote was about the
benefits of joining and partici-
pating in your Chamber. This is
POWER
THE
Promotes a strong economy
Opportunities to build business relationships
Works on programs to help business grow
Enhance commerce through community stewardship
Represents and advocate on behalf of business
something that is as basic as
getting a business license or
developing a letterhead for your
business. Chamber member-
ship should be an expense that
you look at as a basic cost of
doing business. But, unlike a
business license or letterhead,
you actually have to be involved
to make a difference. Please
take a few minutes to contact
the staff at the Chamber and
allow them to come and visit
you and your business and
explain how being a member of
this business organization can
and will help you with not only
information, marketing oppor-
tunities, and business-to-busi-
ness contacts, but legislative
bills and actions that can and
will affect how you do business.
It is like anything you do in life;
what you put into it is what you
will get out of it. If you don’t
engage and take advantage of
the opportunities, if you think
that people – just because you
are a member – will knock your
door down, then sadly that
won’t happen. But if you do get
engaged, you will find that you
might learn something from a
meeting or seminar. Or, by
simply talking to another
member, you might find that
what you were doing has been
tried and there is a better way to
do that same task. It is all up to
you, but don’t let another month
go by without checking it out
and seeing if there is a benefit
for you and your business that
you have not taken advantage
of. The Chamber works if you
work it.
OF THE
CHAMBER
The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE
Leadership, from page 3
community, ” noted McKillop.
If your company or organi-
zation is forward-thinking,
passionate about leadership,
and sees the wisdom in
cultivating leaders today for a
strong and vibrant community
tomorrow, please consider
becoming a sponsor of the
Leadership Today program
soon at one of the following
positions:
Lighthouse Sponsor (one
sponsor, three year commit-
ment): $20,000 – currently
filled by NorthBay Healthcare
(2009-2012)
Beacon Sponsor (one
sponsor, two-year commit-
ment): $10,000 –
currently available
460 UNION AVENUE • #C • FAIRFIELD, CA 94533
• Tenant Reports
• Collection Solutions
• Legal Division
• Business Reports
• Credit Reports
“Serving Local Business Since 1947 For Account Receivable Solutions”
join the chamber: visit www.ffsc-chamber.com
Buoy Sponsor (one sponsor, can be applied toward success
annual commitment): $5,000 in all aspects of our lives.” Or,
– five currently available as Jorge Merodio, deputy chief
Compass Sponsor (five of the Fairfield Fire Depart-
sponsors, annual commit- ment says, “Networking with
ment): $1,000 – five currently people is incredible. Getting to
available know my community is
If you are interested in priceless.”
increasing your knowledge of
Applications for participa-
our community and your
tion are being accepted now for
leadership abilities, consider
the 2011-12 program, which
joining the 2012 team. In the
words of Catherine Grimard, begins in September. Detailed
2010 team member from the information about the
North Texas Street Business program, deadlines and
Association, “The information sponsorship opportunities is
that we have learned about available on the Chamber
how to communicate effec- website at www.ffsc-
tively, gain understanding chamber.com/Leadership
about another’s perspective, Today.aspx or by calling Sherry
and enroll others in our vision McKillop at 707-227-7070.
CREDIT REPORTS
COLLECTIONS
707-429-3211
800-564-6440
www.cbacredit.com
• Bad Check
Collections
• Employment
Reports
• Credit Reports
for Consumers
12 June 2011 The official newsletter of the Fairfield-Suisun City Chamber of Commerce THE VOICE

We can service
your business, too!
“I have my personal and business accounts
with Travis Credit Union. You should too!”
Ted Kovarik, owner
Solano Windshield Repair
TCU member since 1993

Need to grow your business?

TCU is a Preferred SBA Lender.

Business Services - Preferred SBA Lender

Rayanne Berry (707) 469-1964
www.traviscu.org/businesspro.aspx

Fairfield Gateway Branch Green Valley Branch Suisun Branch

2570 North Texas St. 1340 Gateway Blvd. 5075 Business Center Dr. 131 Sunset Ave, #A-1

NCUA—Your savings are federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government.
Everyone who lives, works or attends school in our 12-county area is eligible to join. Business accounts subject to credit approval. Certain membership requirements may apply.