PetalumaBUSINESS
PetalumaBUSINESS
“�Petaluma’s�voice�for�business”
February 2011Vol 20, No 2
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 Feb. 7
Current Resident or
Chamber to SurveyMembership in February
The Petaluma Chamber is launching one of its most intensive efforts ever to determine what the membership wants and needs from its organization.
In February, members will be receiving an email survey that will take just a few minutes to complete. Chamber CEO Onita Pellegrini said that members are urged to complete and return the survey.
“Results of this survey are going to play a major role in determining what programs and policies are adopted by
the Chamber,” she said.
The Chamber is also going to make the survey available in printed form by distributing it with the new membership directory this month.
The survey will attempt to assess the value of current programs such as networking and member education. It will measure the effectiveness of communications with members.
The survey will also ask if the
membership believes the Chamber
should be more or less assertive in
representing business in the forums of
local government.
One of the major answers the Chamber
Board hopes to get from this survey
concerns political action. One question
will deal with the subject of Chamber
endorsement of political candidates,
and the other with the formation of a
political action committee (PAC) to raise
and distribute campaign funding for
candidates and ballot issues.
Pellegrini said that “we are really going for an accurate representation of a cross-section of thinking of our membership. Most of our surveys in the past have had a 10-15% of response. This time around, we would like to see at least 50%.”
“Our Board has set a high priority this year in being responsive to the membership,” Pellegrini said. “This is our first step.”
Leadership Lessons Focus ofWIB Brown Bag Lunch
On February 24th, the Petaluma Chamber’s Women in Business committee will be hosting a lunchtime seminar on “ Leaders vs. Leash Holders…are you walking the dog of life, or is it walking you?”, which will be presented
by Camilla Gray-Nelson, President of Dairydell Canine and soon to be author of Lipstick & the Leash.
Camilla is a successful businesswoman, dog trainer and leadership mentor. Think Cesar Millan meets Martha Stewart meets Donald Trump with a little Gloria Steinem thrown in! The result is a woman who is passionate about teaching lessons of leadership based on a lifetime spent as an animal behaviorist and observing differences in the way the sexes approach and master dog training, business and life.
The program runs from 11:45-1p.m. Cost $5 for Chamber members, $8 for
non-members. Bring your own lunch, drinks provided.
Space is limited and will fill quickly, so RSVP TODAY to Jana Boyle at [email protected].
The Petaluma Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Committee is comprised of local business women who have come together for the goal of providing education, networking opportunities and business support to other local women in business. The committee meets once a month to plan and schedule breakfast seminars and brown bag lunches for the year, all with powerful topics and speakers. If you
are interested in learning more about the Petaluma Chamber’s Women in Business Committee, please contact the Committee Chair, Shelly Moller, Edward Jones at [email protected].
The other committee Members include; Jana Boyle, Redwood Credit Union, Liz Chang, Natures Best Cleaners, Yvonne Cordoza, Cordoza’s Deli-Café, Rene Story, Bank of Marin, Anne Fischer Silva, New Leaf Nutrition, Karen Langdon, Kaiser Permanente, Jennifer March, JMA Services, Onita Pellegrini, Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce and Joanne Sterzenbach, Blue Oak Mortgage.
Camilla Gray-Nelson
2��������February 2011��������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
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
Economic Development Anthy O’Brien (707) 283-2710 Top Speed Data Communications
Government AffairsWayne Leach, (415) 883-9850 CSW/Stuber-Stroeh Engineering Group
Leadership Petaluma ProgramCall the Chamber for info, 762-2785.
Past Presidents CouncilLes Villanyi, 778-9345 OTTIMO International
CommitteesCall 762-2785 for more information.
Wake-Up PetalumaJim Becker, 778-7780 Edward Jones Investments
Jeff Mayne, 536-6161 Excel Mortgage Solutions
Women in BusinessShelly Moller, 763-3006 Edward Jones
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
Everyone at the January 13th “How to
Get More Leads” seminar left with fresh
ideas for finding new customers. The
audience of salespeople, sales managers,
consultants, and small business owners
learned about the five best sources for
new business and how to maximize
each one.
Represented industries included
banking, insurance, mortgage,
telecommunications, hospitality,
and more. Ron Malnati of Exchange
Bank commented, “The seminar itself
delivered good information plus there
was valuable information from the other
participants”.
This cross-pollination of ideas is one
of the benefits of a public seminar that
is not possible in a single company
training event. Elaine Crane of Top
Speed Data Communications liked the
energy at the seminar, “I loved
Kurt’s enthusiasm. He really
wants to help your succeed.”
The seminar covered traditional
lead generation techniques as
well as how to leverage new
technologies like LinkedIn,
the social media application
for business. “I was glad I
came. I learned a lot about
how LinkedIn can help me find
prospects that fit my target
profile.” said Mike D’Addario of
Infineon Raceway.
The second in the 4-seminar series is “Moving the Sale Forward” on February 10th. It is all about maintaining momentum to avoid a stalled sales process. Key topics include Questioning Techniques, Building Rapport, and Handling Objections.
Chamber members save 50% and seating is limited so register today at wwww.peta l aumachamber .com/masteryseries.asp or phone the Chamber at (707)762-2785.
Assemblyman to SpeakAt Wake Up Petaluma
Breakfast with Assemblyman Jared Huffman is the opportunity offered attendees at the February meeting of Wake Up Petaluma, scheduled February 23 at Rooster Run.
The Assemblyman, who represents Southern Sonoma and Marin Counties in the State Assembly, will be the sole speaker in the newly revised Wake Up format. He will be discussing a
wide range of issues concerning the Sacramento scene, including efforts to cope with massive budget shortfalls, newly elected Governor Jerry Brown, redrawing of Assembly District boundaries under reapportionment, and a host of other issues.
Assemblyman Huffman has been a regular contributor to such Chamber programs as Leadership Petaluma and
the Government Affairs committee. A four-year veteran who will be “termed-out” after six years of service, he is one of the veteran Sacramento legislators.
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.
Sales Mastery SeminarContinues in February
Mike D’Addario of Infineon Raceway listens as instructor Kurt Shaver of The Sales Foundry describes how to get sales leads.
4��������February 2011��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Editorials & Opinions, Analyses, Commentary, Viewpoints
President’s Message
President’s CircleHas Great Benefits
By Monica Soiland, President,
Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Commentary
For those businesses that perceive great value from a Chamber membership, enrolling in our President’s Circle program means that these businesses receive maximum return on their Chamber investment at a significant level of savings.
Late last year, four more members – Hansel Auto Group, Republic Services, Novato Community Hospital, and Barbara Perry/Coldwell Banker – joined the Circle, bringing our total to 27. I welcome them, and on behalf of the Chamber express our appreciation for their support of the Chamber.
Membership in the Circle should be considered by any business that wants to gain greater visibility with our City’s business community. The Chamber has a number of programs that are designed to create that visibility, and the President’s Circle packages those programs at substantial savings. The top two levels can be customized to fit your needs.
Here’s how the program works. There are four levels – Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. I’ll start with the Platinum level, which costs $5,000 a year but has an estimated value of about $9,000. Platinum Circle members get for their fee a strategically located $1000 Expo booth plus banner, annual dues up to $1,000, passes and reserve seating at the annual dinner, sponsorship of the Community awards with passes and seating, sponsorship and free breakfasts at Wake Up Petaluma, a half page ad in Petaluma Business every month, special listing in Membership Directory, logo and large banner ad presence on Chamber website, and enrollment for one person in the Leadership Petaluma program. Plus, there are other perks such as business logo in various publications.
Platinum Members Gold Members Silver Members
AVM Graphics • Barbara J. Perry, Coldwell BankerClark Rosen, Coldwell Banker • Deer Creek Village • Moonware Design
Nancy Cooley, State Farm Insurance
Bronze Members
Do What’s BestFor Petaluma
As the newly formed City Council works with the complexities of governing Petaluma, and the six currently sitting members are finding a way to overcome a pretty formidable three-three split in ideology, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the welfare of our community hinges upon the six finding a way to govern effectively.
The initial Council meeting in January was definitely a cause for concern, when lack of agreement led to a fair amount of finger pointing and disparagement of dissenting views.
On the other hand, the second January meeting put our community back on the right track. Councilman Harris’ withdrawal from his quest for a seat on the Sonoma County Transportation Authority, combined with a promise from Mayor Glass for such an appointment in a year or two, led to a fairly effortless process of making 20 appointments.
The Council is to be commended, but the toughest task is yet ahead. That would be the effort to appoint a seventh member to fill the vacancy created by David Glass’ election as Mayor.
It is saying the obvious to say that this is going to be a difficult task, but that is one of the responsibilities of this elective office, as determined by our City Charter.
It should also be obvious that not one of the six members is likely going to get who he or she most wants. All six are going to need to have the word “compromise” foremost in their minds. To some people, compromise is a bad word, a belief commonly shared by those on both the political left and the political right. But, the opposite of compromise is gridlock, and if there is any one thing our community cannot endure in these times that demand innovative problem-solving, it is political gridlock.
However, throwing up of one’s hands in a posture of no-compromise and calling for an expensive special election to solve the problem is most emphatically not the answer. The hard-fought elections of this past year have left some notable, lasting scars, scars which today influence the divisiveness of the current ruling body. It would seem almost certain that a special election would simply resuscitate that aggressive adversarial animosity, pitting both sides against each other in a contest once again to get a four-vote majority.
That scenario is not going to be good for the City, and the welfare of our overall community should be paramount.
We hope that each of the six can realize that early in the process, and start casting about for that one candidate who can come aboard with the full intent and capability of working harmoniously with each and every one of the current six members.
It sounds like a tall order, but our Council will never know until it tries. We know that each of the six members wants only what is best for Petaluma.
Our Platinum members currently are PG&E, Bank of Marin, Comcast, Exchange Bank, and Redwood Credit Union.
The Gold Membership level, a scaled down version of Platinum, costs $3,500 with an estimated value of $5,590. Our Gold members are Clover Stornetta Farms, Port Sonoma, and Summit State Bank.
The Silver level costs $1,750 with a value of $3,130. Those members are AVM Graphics, Century 21 Bundesen, Circle Bank, First Community Bank, Hansel Auto Group, Kaiser, Medley Glass Works, Midstate Construction, Novato Community Hospital, Pacific eDocument Solutions, Republic Services, Rooster Run Event Center, Sonoma Bank, and Speaklo Media.
At the Bronze level, cost $1,250, value, $1,755, our members are Clark Rosen/Coldwell Banker, Barbara J. Perry/Coldwell Banker, Merlone Geier Partners/Deer Creek Village, Moonware Design, and Nancy Cooley/State Farm Insurance.
It is worth noting that every level of the President’s Circle includes Business Expo booths, monthly advertising in Petaluma Business, and annual Chamber dues.
So, perhaps now is the time for you to seriously consider upgrading your level of participation in your Chamber, and the ideal first step is a seat in the President’s Circle.
Want more information? Call the office at 762-2785. A friendly, helpful voice at the other end of the line is guaranteed.
6��������February 2011��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Forty Under 40Nominations Open
The North Bay Business Journal is looking for nominations for its fifth-annual Forty under 40, a special publication and gala reception that will recognize 40 professionals under the age of 40 who fit any of the following profiles:
• Entrepreneurs who create a new product or market
• People who demonstrate extraordinary leadership qualities
• Executives and professionals advancing quickly in their organizations
• Innovators who have changed the way their industry does business
• Individuals whose work has a wide-reaching impact on the business community
To submit a nomination, go to www.NorthBayBusinessJournal.com and submit online, or print out a nomination form and fax it to 707-521-5292 or mail it to 427 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95401 ATTN: Forty under 40.
The deadline for nominations is Friday, Feb. 11. Winners must be under the age of 40 as of the date of publication on April 25, 2011. Supporting documents are welcome but will not replace the nomination form. Winners are chosen based on qualifications and not the number of nominations received.
Sponsors Sought ForCommunity Awards
The Annual Community Recognition Awards event is just a couple of months away, and the Chamber office has announced that businesses interested in being either event or food sponsors have just a couple of weeks to act. The program is scheduled for March 31 At the Sheraton in Petaluma.
Two levels of event sponsor are available. The first, which costs $300, includes event passes and business logo in the program, and the second, costing $150, includes passes and program listing.
Food sponsors will be able to offer samples of their product before the program. It involves setting up at approximately 4:30pm until the end of the reception at 6:30pm. The Sheraton provides an eight foot table and table linens, the food sponsor provides approximately 300 bite size samples
of their food and any items they need to serve their samples (napkins, paper plates, plastic forks, etc). There is space for only one more food sponsor.
Already confirmed are bay laurel Culinary, Bert’s Desserts, Chef Adair, Cordoza’s Deli & Cafe, Lemongrass Thai Cuisine, Petaluma Coffee & Tea Company, Preferred Sonoma Caterers, Rooster Run Event Center, Sheraton Petaluma, and Wild Goat Bistro.
Major event sponsors already enrolled are Bank of Marin, Clover Stornetta, Comcast, Deer Creek Village, Exchange Bank, Industrial Carting, Jerico Products, PG&E, Redwood Credit Union, Sonoma County Fair, Port Sonoma, Nancy Cooley/ State Farm, and Summit State Bank.
Deadline for sponsorships is February 18. Call 762-2785 for information.
Petaluma Green TaxiTo Be Honored
One of Petaluma’s newest businesses, Petaluma Green Taxi, will be one of the honorees at this year’s Business Environmental Breakfast, scheduled for March 11, 7:30-9:30 at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek hotel in Santa Rosa.
Petaluma Green Taxi was nominated for the award by the Petaluma Chamber.
The program will also feature two noted speakers. Andrew J. Hoffman Holcim Professor of Sustainable Enterprise at the University of Michigan will address his powerful and practical strategies for harnessing sustainability to benefit a business. He is a leader in using organizational, network and strategic analyses to assess the implications of environmental issues for business, and has published eight books and over ninety articles and book chapters on the topic.
Also on the program is Todd Ahlsten,
Chief Investment Officer of Parnassus Equity Income Fund, who specializes in investments in environmentally innovative industries.
Founded in December 2008, PGT is the first environmentally conscious cab company in the entire county. Its fleet consists of both true hybrids as well as PZEVs (partial zero-emission vehicles). Since 2008, Ford has outfitted its Escape hybrid with 100% recycled fabric interiors made from post-industrial polyester derived from soda-bottle resin. The fabric also features an industry-leading backcoating technology that minimizes the use of traditional flame-retardant chemicals. PGT’s vehicles are outfitted with specialized LRR (Low Rolling Resistance) tires, which improve fuel efficiency. Both inside and out, these are truly green vehicles.
Register for the breakfast beginning February 8th at www.SonomaBEA.org.
PG&E Gas Savings ProgramOffers Conservation Incentives
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) recently announced the launch of its annual Winter Gas Savings Program, which gives eligible customers an automatic bill credit when they reduce their year-over-year gas usage during January and February in 2011.
Business customers who reduce usage up to 10 percent will receive an equal percentage credit on their spring gas bill. For example, a customer who reduces their usage by 2 percent will receive a 2 percent credit. If a customer conserves 10 percent or more, they will receive a 20 percent credit.
In January and February of 2010, more than 1.9 million customers reduced their gas usage from the previous year and earned bill credits totaling $37 million. The average credit per qualifying customer account was $19.50, with the average small commercial credit at $72.
Business customers can take simple steps to reduce their gas consumption:
• Lower the thermostat to 68 degrees during the daytime to stay comfortable and save gas.
• Set the water heater to 120 degrees
or the “normal” setting.
• Close all doors and windows while your HVAC system is running.
• Regularly check all air ducts and pipe insulation for damage.
• Perform routine HVAC maintenance.
• Turn off gas equipment and heating appliances when not in use.
• Install weather stripping around windows, pipes, and doors to reduce drafts.
• Have a contractor check your central heating/air for leaks. 20 percent of heated air can be lost through leaking ducts.
• Take advantage of PG&E rebates and incentives and invest in energy-efficient gas equipment.
Business customers can find informative tips, tools and resources to help conserve gas by visiting, www.pge.com/wintergassavings. For further assistance or information, contact PG&E’s Business Customer Service Center at 1 (800) 468-4743.
Youth CommissionMixer in March
The Youth Commission has planned a mixer for March 8 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Community Center at Lucchesi Park. The outing will feature a presentation from the student-run groups concerning their individual projects, as well as an update of activities the Youth Commission does, and what has been
accomplished in the past. It will be pot-luck themed, and it is suggested for the guests to intermingle with both the adults and youth of the commission.
Business representatives are invited to attend and participate. For more information, call (707) 364-5906.
Through Redwood Regional Medical Group’s clinical trials program, patients have access to national trials and investigational treatment options right here in the North Bay. And patients are helping future patients by improving cancer treatment knowledge. Together, we’re fighting against cancer.
Research offers hope. For patients now and in the future.
707.525.4000 | www.RRMG.com
Hope
8��������February 2011��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Restaurant WeekDebuts February 21
The Sonoma County Economic
Development Board announces
the second annual Sonoma County
Restaurant Week. The event will be
held from February 21- 27, 2011, and
will feature a wide variety of restaurants,
culinary options and local ingredients at
great prices.
Participating Petaluma restaurants at
press time were Cattlemens Restaurant,
Dempsey’s, Graffiti, Le Bistro, Tolay at
the Sheraton, and Pazzo.
Last year’s first annual Sonoma
County Restaurant Week brought in
over $800,000 for Sonoma County,
increased customer traffic an average
of 26% for participating restaurants,
and significantly impacted restaurant
revenues.
As was the case last year, this year’s
participating restaurants will offer three
course prix-fixe dinners for $19, $29 or
$39, and will feature local ingredients
and local wines of their choice to
accompany the meals. This emphasis
on farm-fresh food and local wineries
means dining out during Restaurant
Week is not only beneficial to the
restaurant industry, but also for local
food suppliers, farmers, wineries, and
the economic vitality of Sonoma County.
Sonoma County Restaurant Week
also presents the perfect opportunity
for locals to rediscover great Sonoma
County restaurants, and for visitors to
come and get a taste of California’s
finest food and wine without breaking
the bank.
SCORE Workshop onInternet Marketing
North Coast SCORE Chapter 450
announces a workshop that introduces
small businesses to internet marketing
processes and tools and explains how to
determine whether these are appropriate
for a business. “Internet marketing
can help increase sales, improve your
company’s image, and increase your
geographical scope. However internet
marketing cannot rescue a bad business
plan”, said Jeffrey Schmidt who will
conduct this workshop.
Workshop attendees will learn about
three key processes: driving prospects
to your site, converting prospects to
customers, and results measurement
and process feedback. Social media sites
FaceBook, Twitter, and LinkedIn will
be discussed as well as Search Engine
Optimization (SEO).
The workshop will be led by Jeffrey
Schmidt of DeepSky Marketing who
has designed and successfully executed
marketing plans for large and small
businesses. Jeffrey graduated from
California State University, Sacramento
with majors in Economics and
Psychology.
The workshop will be held on
February 22, from 9-12 a.m., at the
Sonoma County Farm Bureau, 970
Piner Road in Santa Rosa. Charge is
$50. To register, email ahawkins@
sonomacountyfarmbureau.com.
SCORE’s North Coast Chapter serves
entrepreneurs in Sonoma, Napa,
Mendocino, Lake, and Humboldt
counties using face-to-face and online
counseling, and business workshops.
Since 1964, SCORE “Counselors
to America’s Small Business” has
assisted more than 8.5 million aspiring
entrepreneurs and small business
owners through counseling and business
workshops. More than 12,400 volunteer
business counselors in 364 chapters
serve their communities through
entrepreneurial education dedicated to
the formation, growth and success of
small businesses. For more information
about starting or operating a small
business, call 1 (800) 634-0245 for the
SCORE chapter nearest you. Or, visit
SCORE on the Web at www.score.org
and www.score.org/women.
Cinema SeriesSchedule
The Petaluma Film Alliance announces the Spring 2011 Cinema Series, 15 weeks of classic, foreign, and independent films hosted in the state-of-the-art Carole L Ellis Auditorium on the Petaluma campus of Santa Rosa Junior College. This season’s line-up is the most international yet, featuring seven foreign titles, as well as some new independent and classic American cinema. Several guest filmmakers and Oscar nominees will be in attendance at the screenings.
The Cinema Series program was begun as a project by members of the Chamber’s Leadership Petaluma, and is continued to be supported by those in the class.
On February 9th, the Oscar-nominated Bay Area filmmaker Frederick Marx will present his new documentary Journey from Zanskar, a favorite at last fall’s Mill Valley Film Festival. The film follows an impassioned Buddhist monk as he escorts the children of Zanskar on a perilous journey over the Himalayas in search of an education.
On February 16th, the Cinema Series honors Black History Month with the African title Moolaade, a gripping drama by acclaimed director Ousmane Sembene. The film tells the extraordinary tale of a brave West African woman who decides to shelter four little girls from the torturous, and sometimes fatal, procedure of female circumcision, a traditional rite of passage across the African continent.
On March 16th, Swiss filmmaker Jacqueline Zünd will present her new film Goodnight Nobody, a brand-new documentary chronicling the lives of four insomniacs as they struggle to exist in the strange world between reality and dreams. The film has been
selected to open this year’s Sebastopol Documentary Film Festival.
On April 13th, the legendary, Oscar-winning film and sound editor Walter Murch will present and discuss Francis Ford Coppola’s film, The Conversation. Murch has worked on such blockbuster titles as American Graffiti, Apocalypse Now, The Godfather, and The English Patient.
During the month of March, the Cinema Series presents its “Women in Film” miniseries, highlighting the role of women in the industry. In addition to guest director Jacqueline Zünd for Goodnight Nobody, the series will also feature Mira Nair’s Bollywood blockbuster Monsoon Wedding, chronicling five interweaving love stories set against the backdrop of an arranged Indian marriage. Iconic actresses Marlene Dietrich and Elizabeth Taylor also will be showcased in Germany’s first sound film, The Blue Angel, and the 1951 classic, A Place in the Sun.
On Saturday, April 23rd, the Petaluma Film Alliance returns to the Mystic Theatre in downtown Petaluma for its third annual Film Fest Petaluma, featuring four programs of international filmmakers showcasing brand new work.
The 2011 Spring Cinema Series runs February 2nd through May 18th, with screenings every Wednesday night beginning at 7pm. Films are preceded by an introduction at 6pm and followed by a post-screening discussion until 10pm. Tickets are $5 general, $4 for students & seniors. The Ellis box office opens at 5:30pm on Wednesdays.
For the full Cinema Series lineup and additional information on screenings, please visit www.PetalumaFilmFest.org.
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! Call 707-762-2785
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10��������February 2011��������Petaluma Business – A publication of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Aviation ExhibitAt Local Museum
The date was February 17, 1911 when history took place. A young adventurer named Fred Wiseman braved nasty weather and made the first airmail flight, a distance of 15 miles from Petaluma to Santa Rosa.
In honor of the 100th Anniversary of this historic event the Petaluma Museum presents “Flight”, A Tribute to Aviation”. The exhibition will bring to life the
stories of airplanes, engines and human endeavor involved in aviation since Fred Wiseman made his historic flight.
Visitors to the exhibition will be able to follow the journey back in time from the beginning of aviation, through World War II to the current success of the Petaluma Airport. Highlights of the exhibition will include a large scale replica of
the Wiseman plane suspended in air, unique aviation memorabilia, artifacts, archival film, historical photographs, flight simulation and displays of rare aircraft models bringing the excitement and glamour of aviation to life.
The exhibition will include lectures by local World War II, and Korean War era Pilots, aviation historians and aviation enthusiasts. Every Saturday
at 1pm will feature a different film featuring legendary aviators Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and Howard Hughes. The exhibition opens February 2nd, 2011 at 6pm with a special reception honoring WWII hero James Morehead. It runs until April 24th, 2011. The exhibition is supported by The Petaluma Airport, Mangon Aircraft, Inc. and Heloventures.
Economist Offers Recovery HopeJerry Nickelsburg, one of the country’s
more respected economists and a member of UCLA’s Anderson Forecast group, ventured to Sonoma in January as the featured speaker at the annual State of the County ceremonies at Rohnert Park’s Doubletree Hotel.
His message, while not pitching instant recovery, was that the worst seems to be over. Addressing the fears that we may be looking at a double-dip
recession, meaning yet another crash and recovery cycle, he expressed doubt that will happen.
Nickelsburg pointed out that a number of our indicators are now at or near the bottom – business and residential construction and sales of consumer durables – autos, appliances, etc. He said sales of business equipment and software is at a 3 year low as is business construction.
On the other hand, he said, real consumer spending, housing starts, international tourism and exports are up nationwide. California leads the nation in goods moving on the State’s highways, he said.
Housings woes have been aggravated by the fact that families are “doubling up”, with more people living together than in the recent past. This, he indicated, represents demand for housing when
the current recession eases.
Two potential obstacles to recovery,
he said, would be trade wars between
nations hampering our exports, and
slow-growth economic policies.
In Sonoma County, he said about
half of the job loss has occurred in the
government and construction sectors
(see chart this page.)
12����February 2011����Petaluma Business – A publication of the PACC
Business Briefs
Bank of Marin has appointed Dan
Ancheta to Assistant Vice President and
Branch Manager of two of the Bank’s
Petaluma branches.
Ancheta will manage the Bank’s
Marina Branch located at 799 Baywood
Drive and the North Petaluma branch
located at 1371 N. McDowell Blvd inside
the Kohl’s Shopping Center. A third
Bank of Marin branch is located at 8 4th
Street in downtown Petaluma.
Before joining Bank of Marin, Ancheta,
was Branch Manager at Sonoma Bank, a
division of Sterling Savings Bank, in
Petaluma. A native of Petaluma, Dan
graduated from Sonoma State University
with a degree in Business Administration
and is currently enrolled in Sonoma
State’s MBA program.
Bank of Marin also announced it has
signed a lease for a new branch office
in downtown Sonoma. The new office
at 136 W. Napa Street will open in late
spring of 2011. With the new location,
Bank of Marin will have five branch
offices in Sonoma County with a total of
16 offices bank-wide.
Golterman Gardens is holding an
open house on February 13 from 1-4
p.m. at 1000 Skillman Lane, Petaluma
to give the public an opportunity to see
their facilities. The Theme is “High Tea.”
Jane Iddings, J.D., M.S.W., of
Petaluma Mediation and Law Office of Jane Iddings, is teaching a class on
the fundamentals of divorce mediation
at Sonoma State University on March 5th
and 12th. The cost is $185 and offers 14
hours of continuing education credits
for MCLE (attorneys), MFT (marriage and
family therapists), and LCSW (licensed
clinical social workers). This is part of
SSU’s School of Extended Education/
Conflict Resolution Certificate Program;
however, it’s open to the community.
For questions, please call Jane at 292-
9121 or SSU Program Administrator Beth
Warner at 664-3977.
The North Bay Leadership Council has hired Sonia Tanner as an executive
business administrator. She will help
the organization upgrade its website
and further develop its newsletter and
marketing materials.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announced today new estimates
that demonstrate the significant impact
energy efficiency investments made by
Sonoma County customers have had
on reducing harmful greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions. From 2006-09, PG&E
customers in Sonoma County saved
248,000,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of
electricity through energy efficiency and
helped avoid 161,000,000 pounds of
GHG emissions - equal to the emissions
from burning about 8,185,000 gallons of
gasoline.
Graziano’s Ristorante has
announced the opening of Petaluma’s
newest live music venue, Club G
upstairs at the restaurant. The first show
is February 13, a 7 p.m. show featuring
the Kevin Durkin Trio. The event is
billed as a Valentine’s Eve Jazz Session.
Bank of Marin Bancorp announced
2010 annual earnings of $13.6 million,
an increase of $787 thousand, or 6.2%
from $12.8 million a year ago. Diluted
earnings per share for the year ended
December 31, 2010 totaled $2.55, up
$0.36 from $2.19 in the prior year.
Don Bennett& Associates
Advertising & PR ConsultingWriting & Editing Services
BARBARA J. PERRY MBA, GRIBroker Associate RealtorDRE Lic. No. 01871490(707) [email protected]
Buying or selling a home can leave you anxious, depressed, and stressed.
So, who do you call?
THE STRESSBUSTER
14����February 2011����Petaluma Business – A publication of the PACC
Members
New Membersbay laurel CulinaryChris Greenwald128 Cherry StreetPetaluma, CA 94952
Expedition IslandIan Irman755 Southpoint Blvd., Ste. 101-APetaluma, CA 94954
Goltermann CorporationAnnette Goltermann1060 Skillman LanePetaluma, CA 94952
Skin by Holly @ Mockingbird HeightsHolly Curtin855 Lakeville Street, Suite 106Petaluma, CA 94952
The Metta Center for NonviolenceStephanie Van Hook1730 Martin Luther King Jr. WayBerkeley, CA 94709
Veritas Property ManagementLynsey Grayson625 Imperial Way, Suite 5Napa, CA 94559
Renewing MembersAAA Insurance/AAA Travel AgencyAdams MovingAdobe Creek Funeral HomeAirport ExpressAmerican AgCredit, FLCAAmerican Cancer SocietyBert’s DessertsBeyond the Glory Sports BarBKF EngineersCalifornia Granite, Inc.Community Health FoundationCountry Villa PetalumaDairydell Canine TrainingDal Poggetto & Company LLPDynaSec International, Inc.Extreme PizzaFerguson Enterprises, Inc.FitzGerald & AssociatesFlorenciaGulick’s Auto Body Shop, Inc.IKON Office SolutionsInsphere Insurance SolutionsJM Rosen CheesecakeKeller EstateKlassic Key PropertiesKresky Signs, Inc.Law Offices of Bridget MackayMcDevitt & McDevitt Construction CorporationNorth Bay Association of RealtorsPark Place Hearing CenterPeg King Real EstatePetaluma Downtown AssociationPetaluma Woman’s ClubPozzi & Associates-CPA FirmRaley’s SupermarketReal Doner
Redwood Credit Union -
President’s Circle - Platinum
Redwood Regional Medical Group
Richard C. Lane, D.D.S.
Robertson Properties Group
Sonoma Equity Lending Corporation
Stewart Marine Sales
Stony Point Rock Quarry, Inc.
Summit State Bank -
President’s Circle - Gold
Tee Shot to Life
V. Dolan Trucking, Inc.
Volt Services Group
WestAmerica Bank
Long-Time MembersWestAmerica Bank, 42 YearsBlythe Henry
Pozzi & Associates-CPA Firm, 36 YearsJoAnn Ritko Pozzi
McDevitt & McDevitt Construction Corporation, 27 YearsWilliam McDevitt
FitzGerald & Associates, 24 YearsJohn FitzGerald
American AgCredit, FLCA, 25 YearsRuth McClure
Redwood Credit Union - President’s Circle - Platinum, 24 YearsJana Boyle
Adams Moving, 34 YearsSherri Adams
AAA Insurance/AAA Travel Agency, 22 YearsMaureen Chisholm
Stewart Marine Sales, 21 YearsDuffy Stewart
Petaluma Downtown Association, 16 YearsMarie McCusker
American Cancer Society, 16 YearsLaura Moss
Petaluma Woman’s Club, 13 YearsPresident
Richard C. Lane, D.D.S., 14 YearsRick Lane
Peg King Real Estate, 13 YearsPeg King
Adobe Creek Funeral Home, 11 YearsJeff Lyons
Gulick’s Auto Body Shop, Inc., 10 YearsKen Gulick
Learn the latest techniques for increasing your sales. Generate more leads, be more persuasive, and close more business.
How to Get More Leads January 13
Moving the Sale Forward February 10
Winning Sales Presentations March 10
Negotiate and Close The Sale April 14
Registration: 7:45am • Workshops: 8-11am
The Referral Institute1304 South Point Blvd., Suite 102, PetalumaGroup of 4 Workshops: $299 (PACC Members: $149)Individual Workshops: $99 (PACC Members: $49)Register online at petalumachamber.com/masteryseries.asp
“I gained valuable, workable strategies from Kurt’s seminar on ‘Closing the Sale’. I learned ‘what to say’, ‘what not to say’ and that there is actually a bona fide processfor closing.”—Deb Reid, Owner of YogaSpark and Leadership Petaluma participant
For more information on each workshop, or to register, please call (707) 762-2785.
Sales Mastery Seminar SeriesKick Start 2011 with the
Kurt Shaver of The Sales Foundry is the seminar leader of the Sales Mastery Series. The Sales Foundry is the leading sales training company in the North Bay, having trained hundreds of salespeople, consultants, and business owners over the past two years. Kurt’s background includes 25 years selling, training, and managing sales teams at companies of all sizes in multiple industries.
Chamber Members Save 50%
Sponsored by the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
Pozzi & AssociatesA Full Service CPA Firm35 years of Quality Service to Businesses & Individuals
Saturday & Evening Appointments Available with JoAnn Ritko Pozzi, CPA, MBA
320 Washington Street in Downtown Petaluma • www.pozzicpafirm.com
♦ Tax Preparation and AdviceHelping you to reduce taxes, streamline, & have more control of your bottom line• Individuals (average to complex) • Businesses • Estates • Fiduciaries
♦ AICPA Quality Reviewed Firm ♦ Full-time Year-round Staff♦ Quality Accounting / Bookkeeping♦ Quickbooks Professional Advisors♦ Divorce & Litigation Support
Call today for a 20% discount on your initial consultation. (707) 763-9817
Petaluma Business – A publication of the PACC ���February 2011����15
Looking Ahead – March
10 Mastery Seminar Series (3 of 4) Winning Sales Presentations
22 Wake-Up Petaluma
31 Women in Business Brown Bag Lunch Seminar
31 Petaluma Community Awards
1 AmbassadorsPetaluma Valley Hospital, Pat Schaefer’s Office 400 N McDowell Blvd.7:30 A.M.
4 Government AffairsPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 7:30 A.M.
10 Sales Master Seminar Series (2 of 4) Moving the Sale Forward The Referral Institute 1304 South Point Blvd., Ste 102 Register 762-2785 or online at www.petalumachamber.com 8:00 – 11:00 A.M.
15 Leadership AlumniPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 9:00 – 10:00 A.M.
15 AgribusinessSonoma-Marin Fair Conference Room, 175 Fairgrounds Dr. 12:00 Noon
18 Government AffairsPACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2 7:30 A.M.
21 President’s Day – PACC Offices Closed
22 Wake Up Petaluma (RSVP)Rooster Run Event Center2301 E. Washington St. $20 Members, $25 Non-members RSVP 762-27857:30 – 9:00 A.M.
24 Women in Business Brown Bag Lunch Seminar (RSVP)PACC Conference Room 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A-2$5 Members, $8 Non-Members Limited space available; RSVP: Jana Boyle, [email protected]:00 – 1:00 P.M.
24 Business After Hours – Lakeville Eye Care; Permalla Dental Care; Mockingbird Heights, a Salon; and Golden State Lumber Lindberg Center, 855 Lakeville 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 – February
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.
Marketing materials behind the times?
In Petaluma since 1996
Contact Ann today to get your message
across loud and clear.
Have a Business Question? Ask a Business Expert!
The Small Business Development Center at Santa Rosa Junior College offers no-cost, confidential advising to small businesses.
• Develop a business plan • Marketing and promotion• Financial management • and much more!
Tina Eastman, SBDC Business Advisor, is available at the Chamber every Tuesday by appointment only. Contact Santana MacInnes at 524.1770 to schedule.
Petaluma Coffee & Tea212 2nd St., south of D, in the Theater District • 763-2727
Espresso your love to your Valentine with a hot cup of
specialty tea or coffee!
Weekdays from 7:30 to 5:30Saturdays from 8:00 to 4:00