October 2010

www.TulareChamber.org

Update the
By Tony DeRose
I look forward to assisting in the continued progress of making your Chamber THE PLACE to be a part of. Please watch for more changes as the Chamber does its best to serve its customers and the community at large.
Tony DeRose

save the dates

October 5 & 7 - Member Summit, 4-6 p.m., International AgriCenter, 4500 S. Laspina Ave. October 14 - Candidates Forum, 7-9 p.m., Tulare Senior Center, 201 N. F Street October 21 - Mixer at Tulare Historical Museum, 5-7 p.m., 444 W. Tulare Ave.

Its About Tulare

What a fantastic community we live in! I want to say thank you for the positive feedback, the very nice comments and the great suggestions so many of you have shared with me. We are doing a lot of work here at the Chamber. We have been able to meet with the mayor, the Tulare City officials, the Tulare Improvement Program Board of Directors, the 20/40 Visionary Group for Tulare and a number of other service groups and community minded organizations. The positive response has been amazing and hopefully you are seeing some positive results in what we are doing. I quickly learned I am not the only person passionate about this community. The volunteer hours of community minded individuals are countless. The outreach effort is centered in helping individuals, promoting business, encouraging new business, beautification of the community, providing educational training and events and providing fun and safe entertainment for all ages. Its simply about promoting Tulare. Someone I met years ago told me there are three basic things we can do to improve our communities and our lives. They are simple; always try to do a little more, relationships matter and only you can make you happy. These are simple ideas that have made a difference in my life. These kinds of ideas and attitude it creates is contagious and Tulare has it.

Election Day is November 2, 2010

2010 Officers
Chair of the Board Preferred Outlets at Tulare

Patty Rocha

Immediate Past Chair Adair & Evans Vice Chair of Membership Hazels Kitchen Vice Chair of Governmental Affairs Ely Auto Parts

Lance Morris

Chair Elect Tulare Adult School Vice Chair of Finance Sozinho Realty

Marie Pinto

Daniel Enriquez Matt Weaver

Forum gives public chance to meet and question candidates

The Tulare Chamber of Commerces Governmental Affairs Committee, along with Soroptimist International, Tulare AdvanceRegister, and the League of Women Voters, will be hosting a Candidates Forum. The format will allow each candidate to make a brief opening statement for an introduction, followed by questions presented by members of the audience. All candidates will be given a timed opportunity to respond to the questions. This forum will give you the chance to meet

Mat Sozinho

2010 Board
TF Tire & Service Three Sisters Farmstead Cheese

2 0 1 0
the candidates, listen to their platforms, ask questions, and guide you to an informed vote in November. The candidates for the following races have been invited to participate: College

Marc Limas

Gary Germaine
Land OLakes Kohler & Clark Screw Products, Inc. Tulare County Fair Hampton Inn & Suites Ex-Officio, City of Tulare Legal Counsel, Horswill, Mederos, & Soares

Marisa Simoes John Thomas

Bank of the Sierra

Art Clark

of the Sequoias Ward 2, Tulare Joint Union High School Board, and Tulare City Council. This event is free and open to the public. Join us on Thursday, October 14, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Tulare Senior Center, 201 North F Street. For more information, please call 686-1547.

Geoff Hinds

Tulare Historical Museum Martinho Construction Mario Simoes Family Dairy Tulare City School District

Terry Brazil

Brian Martinho Leanne Sandlin

Hector Ramos Traci Myers

Chamber asking for input

Dear Valued Chamber Member; As Chairman Elect of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, it is my goal to ensure all chamber members have the opportunity to voice their needs and concerns. It is important to me that the Chamber moves forward toward meeting those needs and removing concerns.

By Marie Pinto

Sue Ann Hillman

Dennis Mederos

Professional Staff
Anthony DeRose
Interim President /CEO Membership Program Coordinator

Kary Mancebo-Ingram

This is your opportunity to be heard!!

The Chamber will be hosting the first ever Tulare Chamber of Commerce Member Summit. The Member Summit is fashioned after a town hall meeting, where members of

Sherry Carson
Office Manager

Information Coordinator

Bette Pence

the update
is the official monthly publication of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce 220 E. Tulare Ave. P.O. Box 1435 Tulare, CA 93275-1435 email: info@tularechamber.org web: www.tularechamber.org Editor: Kary Mancebo-Ingram For advertising information call: Colleen Ferreira (559) 735-3227 the update is published in partnership with the Tulare Advance-Register

the Chamber will be presented with an opportunity to give input on Chamber activity, programs and events sponsored by the Chamber. Tell us what do we do well and where are our growth opportunities may be??? Some of the topics scheduled to be discussed include: Promoting the Local Community Economic Development Business Services Networking Opportunities/Mixers Governmental Affairs/Political Action Chamber Website Leadership Tulare Ambassador Program

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce Member Summit will be held Tuesday, October 5th or Thursday, October 7th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the International Agri-Center, 4450 South Laspina Street Tulare. Please RSVP to the Tulare Chamber of Commerce office (559) 686-1547 by October 1, 2010 with the date you would like to join us. Refreshments will be served. It is important that you please be a part of this. I thank you for your continued support of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce and look forward to a fruitful and exciting new year. Marie Pinto Tulare Chamber of Commerce Chair-Elect/Board of Directors

Mayors Corner
Proposition 22, on the November ballot, is a critical measure that would prevent the State from raiding funds that are currently dedicated to local governments. It would also prevent the State from diverting gas tax revenues that voters have dedicated to local transportation services and road repairs. It is important to know that this ballot measure does not raise any taxes it simply protects local revenues from State raids. That is why the Tulare City Council has joined the California Chamber of Commerce, along with Meg Whitman, other local elected officials, business leaders, labor leaders and taxpayer groups from throughout the state in support of Prop 22. Every business in California, no matter how large or small, depends on services provided by cities, counties and special districts in order to thrive and prosper. They deliver essential infrastructure to homes and businesses. Local governments are the source of police and fire protection, as well as operate parks, libraries and other services that support businesses, employees and their families. In addition, local governments provide street and road maintenance, as well as sewer, water and utilities. However, State raids of local government and transportation funds over the past decade have put funding for these vital services at risk. In fact, in the last budget cycle alone, the State: Borrowed $2 billion in local property tax dollars. Raided $2 billion in redevelopment funds that would otherwise go to local economic revitalization, business development and job creation. Threatened to steal and borrow billions in gas tax dollars that voters have dedicated to fund local street and road repairs and highway improvements and maintenance. If passed, this measure will close loopholes and prevent the State form borrowing or taking local government funds, including funds for the City of Tulare. Prop 22 is good for local business and good for our economy. Raiding transportation and redevelopment funds directly reduces jobs and slows economic development. For instance, every $1 billion spent on highway construction generates $5 billion in economic activity and creates 18,000 jobs. And the State raid of $2 billion in rede-

By Craig Vejvoda
velopment funds this year could otherwise support up to 198,000 full and part-time jobs in the construction and related industries. By preventing future State raids of local funds, Prop 22 will help keep more of our local tax dollars Craig Vejvoda local, and increase accountability for voters and taxpayers. The measure will also help reduce pressure for local fees and taxes and will help our cities, counties and special districts better plan for future infrastructure and service needs that are necessary to sustain growth and economic development. The Tulare City Council is unanimous in our endorsement of Proposition 22, and we encourage all voters to support this vital measure to protect local taxpayers and local government services from continued State raids.

PERMIT NO. 232 TULARE, CA

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Welcome Sherry Carson to the Chamber Staff

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome Sherry Carson to the Team! Sherry is our new Office Manager and Bookkeeper. Sherry and her family moved to Tulare in 1981. She attended Kohn Elementary, Cherry Avenue Jr. High, and graduated from Tulare Union High School. She continued her education at COS and at Cal Polys Continued Education Program. She has two children, a son who is serving our country in the Air Force, and a daughter who is a freshman at TUHS. Sherry joins the Chamber after gaining valuable experience at the International Agri-Center and Tulare County Economic Development Corporation. In her spare time, Sherry enjoys spending time with her family, base jumping, baseball, playing sand volleyball, and supporting the Tulare County Asthma Coalition and the Light House Rescue Mission. Sherry believes that Tulare truly is the most desirable place to live, learn, play, work, worship, and prosper. Welcome to the Chamber, Sherry!

Sherry Carson

page 2 October 2010

PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

tulare chamber the update

Welcome Aboard New Members

Congratulations and thank you to the new member that invested in the Chamber.
2010-2011 Leadership Tulare Class, pictured from left to right: Stacey Beachy, International Agri-Center; Lee Brehm, Preferred Outlets at Tulare; Lionel Machado, Tulare Regional Medical Center; Hector Ramos, Hampton Inn & Suites, Pablo Reynoso, sponsored by the Tulare Masonic Lodge, employed by the City of Tulare; Jennifer Gomez, City of Tulare; Oscar Fernandez; and Kris Costa, College of the Sequoias. Not pictured: Marcus Fabro.

Caterers 720 W. Main St., Visalia, CA 93292 (559) 733-9001 Website: suesacatering.com

Sue Sas Creative Catering

Members Renew Chamber Investment

Thank you for the following businesses and individuals who renewed their membership during the month of August Bravo Farms Budget Inn California Bean & Pea, Inc. Central California Blood Center Mick Chamberlain Cold Stone Creamery Doug Les Farms El Pargo Bar & Grill Gainsborough Studio Garrison Roofing Co., Inc. Great Lakes Airlines Habitat for Humanity of Tulare County Hilarides Dairy Keller Williams Realty Tulare County The Light House Rescue Mission Little Caesars Pizza Machado Hay Company Oak Valley Union School District Phillips Law Firm Premier Real Estate-Dee Picanso, Realtor Steve Presant Richs Business Options/Amway Global Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel C.J. Shannon & Sons Tipton/Pixley Medical Clinic Tulare-Kings Right to Life Tulare Community Church Tulare County Association of Realtors Valley Yellow Pages Walton Family Moving & Storage

New Leadership Tulare Class Kicks Off Exciting Year

The 2010-2011 Leadership Tulare Class met for the first time at an orientation held at the Chamber. The Class enjoyed lunch from Mikey Vs while learning about the agenda for their upcoming year. Each was given the book, Now, Discover Your Strengths authored by Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton, PhD. Their first homework assignment was to take the Strength Finder quiz that identifies each participants unique talents and strengths. This years class is a diverse group and a great representation of our membership and community. The Chamber is excited to offer this educational program that has empowered many of Tulares distinguished leaders.

Toning Shoes Do They Really Do The Trick?

Youve heard the hype about these shoes BURN MORE CALORIES, TONE YOUR BUTT AND THIGHS, IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE yada yada, yada. And in my opinion, thats all it is - hype. The three Ive heard about the most are SKECHERS SHAPEUPS, MBT - Masai Barefoot Technology and REEBOK EASYTONE. I have no doubt these shoes are comfortable and well-made and they should be for the price you pay for them ranging from $100 - $245. The design of the toning shoe creates an unstable sole which forces the wearer to balance themselves. Looking at the shoes, the thickness alone makes you at least an inch or more taller and should you lose your balance, youll have quite a distance to fall. And Ive asked some of my friends who wear them, Are they working for you?(remember all that toning going on). The general reply is after they wore them for a few days, their legs did ache a bit sore muscles- so it must be working, right? Ok, listen especially you women out there lets say during the fall and winter months the type of shoes you wear are different from what you wear in the spring and summer. When that seasonal change happens and the shoe style changes to accomadate, you go from heels to flats and at first your calves ache a bit. Thats because you are using those leg muscles differently. With heels your calf and leg muscles shorten somewhat then you switch to flats and the muscles need to lengthen and stretch out. Different shoes make your muscles react, well, differently. Yes, there are studies out there that prove the results that they proclaim but there are studies and there are studies. When the manufacturer of a product conducts their own survey or study of their very own product the results can say whatever they want it to say. Lets face it, they are not going to say anything negative about their own product. But when an independent studyno ties to the product or its producer is done, thats the one you need to read and probably take heed. And what Ive read in these independent studies does not support the manufacturers claims. Hey, if you like the shoes and they feel great and spending that amount of money motivates you to get out and walk and move Barbara Harrell more then go for it! Will Jazzercise Franchise Owner & Certified Personal Trainer this particular design of Fitness by Design shoe tone your body, make the excess weight drop off and those inches just melt off your body just by putting them on your feet no. There isnt any specific food to eat, or pill to swallow or designer shoe to wear that will get you to your goal weight or clothing size It takes YOU making a decision to become more healthy by making better food choices and with daily exercise. Its a lifestyle change, not a shoe-style change.

tulare chamber the update

ADVOCATING FOR BUSINESS

October 2010 page 3

Member News

The Tulare Soroptimist Club will hold its annual fall salad luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21 at Tulare First Baptist Church on the corner of Cross Avenue and Cherry Street. The buffet luncheon will feature an array of salads prepared by club members and local restaurants. Opportunity drawings also are planned. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance from any Soroptimist Club member or by calling Marmie Fidler, 901-4528, Julie Fernandez, 287-4831 or Karen Smith, 686-1688. Proceeds from the luncheon will go toward scholarships and community projects. Tulare Soroptimist awards scholarships each year to a graduating senior at Tulare Union and Tulare Western High School. The organization also presents a cash prize to the winner of its annual Womans Opportunity Award, which is given to an adult woman who is seeking schooling or training to enable her to enter the job market. Tulare Soroptimist also has used fund raising proceeds to help such organizations and projects as Tulare LightHouse Rescue Mission and the Tulare Hospital Foundation. Membership in Soroptimist is open to women working in a profession or business. Retired professional and business women also are welcomed to join. Emmy winning former member of the hit band The Monkees, composer, singer and actor, Peter Tork will be the featured speaker at the Tulare County Drug Court graduation at 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010, at the Visalia Convention Center. Over 175 graduates will be recognized. An emotional and uplifing Before & After video will show how they regained sobriety and are now law abiding, productive citizens. Open to the public - free admission. Gowin Green, a local family-owned grounds maintenance company, has expanded its offering of services to include landscaping. Now, with the achievement of being issued a landscape contractors license, Gowin Green can provide those services that can transform your yard into your perfect destination location. Owner James Gowin has 20 years experience in landscape design and installation and will be offering competitive prices. Please, visit their website: www. gowingreen.com.Contact them today for a free estimate, 559-303-9040. The Tulare City Historical Society and the Tulare Historical Museum are pleased to announce the 20th Annual Taste Treats in Tulare on Monday, Oct. 25, 2010, at the Heritage Complex International AgriCenter, 4500 So. Laspina St., Tulare, CA. This is the organizations biggest fund-raiser of the year, benefiting the Tulare Historical Museum, yet tickets are only $45 each. Tickets may be purchased at the museum, from a museum board member or from their website. You will be able to sample the best foods, featuring the areas finest restaurants and caterers, without leaving town. Visit old friends or make new ones, and dont forget to bid on the terrific silent auction items. Taste Treat tickets sell out FAST! So, dont wait or youll miss out on this highly anticipated annual food-tasting extravaganza! The museum is located at 444 W. Tulare Ave., Tulare. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. 4 p.m. Thursday - Saturday. In addition to their regular hours, they will be open the third Sunday of the month for free, during the months of September to May to correlate with their Sunday @ 2:00 program. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors 55+ and So. CA Automobile Club members, $2 for students, and free for Tulare City Historical Society members and children under 5 years old. Please view their website for more information on this event or to purchase tickets online at www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org. Any questions? Please call: (559) 686-2074. Clifford H. Dunbar, Chairman of the Board/Chief Executive Officer of Buckman-Mitchell Inc., one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the West, was recently honored for his ongoing pledge to education, commitment to excellence, and dedication to Clifford H. Dunbar the insurance profession. The Society of Certified Insurance Counselors (CIC) presented Dunbar with a formally inscribed certificate for his continued participation in the CIC program. Earning his CIC designation and maintaining all update requirements for 20 years places Dunbar in the top 1 percent of all insurance professionals in the country. The high standard maintained by Mr. Dunbar not only benefits BMI, but the insurance profession as a whole, said Dr. William T. Hold, CIC, CPCU, CLU, President of the Society of CIC. The Society of CIC is an organization nationally recognized as a leading continuing education program of insurance professionals. A not-for-profit organization, the Society of CIC is the cornerstone program for The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, headquartered in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1916, Buckman-Mitchell is one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the West. It has been named to the prestigious Top 100 Agencies in America. Buckman-Mitchell offers a full line of personal and business insurance including agribusiness and health and financial. The company is located at 500 N. Santa Fe St. in Visalia, Calif. For more information on Buckman-Mitchell, visit www. bminc.com or call 733-1181.

New Member - Loving Care Assisted Living

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce is happy to welcome Loving Care Assisted Living as a new member. Loving Care was established in 2003 by long-time Tulare resident Ron Perry and his wife Fe. The Perry family is well-known and remembered in Tulare as operating Perrys Tulare Inn, on Paige Avenue, one of the first restaurants to offer a chuck wagon buffet. Loving Care, located within the Perrys home, can accommodate up to six residents with two private rooms and two semi-private rooms. The family-oriented and welcoming atmosphere is a wonderful alternative to a large, impersonal facility. It is a general care facility that provides room and board, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, for people who can no longer care for themselves. Ron and Fe are able to distribute and dispense medications to their residents, removing the guess work. Home-cooked meals and snacks are often prepared using fresh ingredients from their garden. Visitors may come and go from 8am - 8pm, and for emergencies. Ron and Fe are State Licensed, Live Scan and First Aid Certified. Each year, Ron and Fe complete 40 hours of additional education and training. Ron considers it a privilege to serve the community in this way. Loving Care Assisted Living is located at 1542 East Glenwood. To learn more, please call 688-4835 or 736-0401.

New Member - T-Bones Ranch House

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce is happy to welcome T-Bones Ranch House as a new member. The Early Tulare, Old West dcor greets you from the moment you enter. This casual, familyfriendly restaurant will treat you to some of the best food around. On the menu, youll find Certified Angus steaks, chops, ribs, chicken, seafood, salads, cobbler, and bread pudding, all fresh and all home-made. Seasonally, lobster is available. If youre really hungry, order the huge chickenfried steak complete with all the trimmings. T-Bones serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. You can also have T-Bones Ranch House cater your next event, whether it be a wedding, corporate party, or business meeting, no event is too big or too small. For good times and great cuisine, visit T-Bones Ranch House at 1066 East Rankin. Their hours of operation are Sunday-Thursday, 6 am - 9 pm, and Friday-Saturday, 6 am - 10 pm. For more information, please call 684-9108 or visit their website, www.tbonesranchhousetulare.com.

ServiceMaster by Benevento has learned that it is one of five ServiceMaster franchises in the United States to be the recipient of the Expert Award. This award qualifies the local company to vie for the Marian E. Wade Award, which is the top award presented each year. The father and son team of Larry (chief financial officer) and Tony (president) Benevento travel to Boston on Tuesday to learn if they have earned the top prize. ServiceMaster by Benevento has earned the Expert Award twice previously, and the senior Benevento is hoping that the third time is the charm and that well bring home the Marian E. Wade award this year. This award, named after the national companys founder, considers criteria such as growth, customer service and their success in nurturing the national franchises corporate culture of honoring God, helping staff grow professionally and growing the company profitably. ServiceMaster by Benevento serves Tulare and Kings counties, and in 2009 took on the Bakersfield franchise to serve Kern County. The company, now in its 26th year, has 33 employees and plans to give $150,000 this year to local non-profit organizations, including the YMCA. ServiceMaster by Benevento provides fire, smoke and water damage restoration and reconstruction, commercial and residential cleaning services. For information, call 559-625-8554 or visit servicemasterbybenevento.com. Coldwell Banker Choboian Real Estate is proud to present Coldwell Bankers Top Agents for August, 2010. Julie Beltran was the Top Agent for New Listings. Maria Chavez was the Top Agent for Open Escrows. Top Agent in Julie Beltran Closed Escrows was Lorri Silva. These Individuals are outstanding sales professionals and have the primary goal to serve their clients in the most professional manner. They continually strive to be number one! said Wayne Maria Chavez Butterfield, Sales Manager. Coldwell Banker Choboian Real Estate is located at 155 North K Street, Tulare, Ca. 93274, and can be reached at 559-686-8591 or www.cbchoboian.com. Coldwell Banker Choboian Real Estate Lorri Silva has been serving the Tulare County area for over 50 years. Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker organization has been a premier provider of full-service real estate. The Coldwell Banker system has more than 3,600 residential and commercial real estate offices and 117,000 Sales Associates in 28 countries and territories. It is a pioneer in consumer services with its Coldwell Banker Concierge program and award-winning Web site, www.coldwellbanker.com. In its first three years, Measure R has been used to buy buses, provide transportation to at-risk youth, fund new routes, extend service hours and purchase technology to help buses stay on schedule. That was the good news reported to the Measure R Citizens Oversight Committee this week during its quarterly meeting in Visalia. Its clear that Measure R has made positive improvements to transit for county residents, said Tom Barcellos, chairman of the Measure R Citizens Oversight Committee during the committees Aug. 9 meeting. At the request of the committee, transit providers from throughout the county detailed how the more than $6.7 million spent to date in Measure Rs transit/bicycle/environmental funding category has improved transit in Tulare County. Heres a look at whats been done with Measure R:

Porterville (Porterville Transit) New Route 8, serving northeast Porterville. Expanded service to southwest and northwest Porterville. Plans to expand service to southwest Porterville in 2012-13. Visalia (Visalia Transit) Extended Sunday service hours from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Added buses to busiest routes (Mooney Boulevard and north Visalia) to provide more frequent service. Supported fare box recovery urban transit systems have to generate at least 20 percent of operating costs through the fare box, while rural areas must generate at least 10 percent. Expanded transit center (planned with Measure R funds, but Measure R funds were replaced with federal funds, allowing the city to use Measure R funds on other transit projects). Added new route to serve Farmersville, Exeter and Visalia. Added buses to Routes 7 and 8 and made them run bidirectional to better serve riders. Extended Route 7 to serve the new Target shopping center on Dinuba Boulevard. Tulare (Tulare InterModal Express, TIME) New Route 7 to serve southeast Tulare. Installed technology on buses to give buses priority at traffic signals. Dinuba (Dinuba Area Regional Transit) Expanded transit services by starting Dinuba Connection, a route running between Dinuba and Reedley. Since the route began in August 2008, its ridership has increased 44 percent from 7,400 riders in 2008-09 to 10,000 riders in 2009-10. County of Tulare (Tulare County Area Transit) Started LOOP bus providing at-risk youth with free transportation to activities that connect them to mentoring and gang prevention programs in the county. Since its inception in November 2006, approximately 9,000 at-risk youth have used the LOOP. In 2009-10, ridership more than doubled to 4,735 youth from 2008-09 when it had 2,334 riders. Provided more frequent transit services and extended service hours to all areas of the county. Added Saturday service to transit services. Added transit service to Alpaugh area. Added more buses to routes increasing the frequency of routes in the county. Expanded service hours from 18,000 to 26,000 hours in past three years. Supported fare box recovery. The 16-member committee meets quarterly to

make sure Measure R funds are spent properly. It will meet next on Monday, Nov. 8. To view meeting dates and agendas, visit tularecog.org/oversight_committee. php. The public is invited to attend. Measure R, the one-half cent sales tax passed in 2006, funds transportation, transit and environmental improvements in Tulare County. The Tulare County Association of Governments, acting as the Tulare County Transportation Authority, administers the Measure R program. For more information, contact Ted Smalley at (559) 624-7274 or visit TCMeasureR.com. This year is the 25th Anniversary of the opening of the Tulare Historical Museum. Our museum officially opened its doors to the public on November 15th, 1985. Many events have been planned to commemorate this anniversary: The museum is sponsoring an Essay Writing Contest. A variety of formats are welcome, including narrative, compare-and-contrast, interview, expository and timeline. The goal is to let Tulare residents know that their personal histories have a place in the museum. One winner and an honorable-mention entry will be chosen in the following categories: fourth and fifth grades; sixth, seventh and eighth grades; high school freshmen and sophomores; high school juniors and seniors; and adults. Each entry should be 2-3 pages typed (at least 12-point font). Entries are due October 22. Bring them to the Tulare Historical Museum, mail them to Tulare Historical Museum, P.O. Box 248, Tulare, CA 93274 or email your entries to Pam Beck at pjb61850@aol.com. Winners will be announced Nov. 14. Winners from each category will take home $50. Winners and runners-up will be treated to a reception event. Winners also will be featured in a display at the museum. Included will be their written work, photos and family memorabilia. During the weekend of Nov.13th & 14th, the museum will host an Open House to commemorate Tulare Historical Museums 25th Anniversary. Admission will be free. Saturday, Nov. 13th, free admission hours will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 14th, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday evening Nov. 13th, from 6-9 p.m. the museum will feature A Night at the Museum. The cost of tickets is $25 each. This event will include appetizers, music and fun in a relaxed atmosphere. Meet docents dressed in period costume as you explore our exhibits. Guests may also dress in period clothing, but it is not a requirement. These tickets are on sale now, and may also be purchased on the museums website. On Sunday, Nov. 14th, at 2 p.m. the museum will have a free program and reception in the Heritage Room. There will be a cake reception and (continued on page 4)

PRUNING With A Purpose *

What:
An afternoon with master gardener, Tom Fetch, of L E Cooke Co., presenting an educational, often humorous, look at landscaping and gardening techniques, with a focus on pruning tips and tricks to help you improve plant and tree health, or even to create living art! Hors d oeuvres and beverage buffet. Silent auction; a chance to pick up some spectacular gifts, donated by local merchants, for less than retail! * Proceeds to benefit Tulare READ, provider of free, adult literacy services.

When: Where: Tickets:

Sunday, October 3rd, 2 p.m.4 p.m. The NEW Tulare Public Library 475 North M Street, Tulare CA 93274 $20 per person, available from the Tulare READ office, located at the Tulare Public Library (559) 685-4516, tulareread@yahoo.com,
www.facebook.com/pages/Tulare-READ/59417379949

Info:

Circles of Excellence
A program of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce

ENTER NOW for a chance to win a gift basket full of gardening books! Raffle tickets are JUST $1, at the Tulare Public Library. Winner announced at the event (needs not be present to win).

Presidents Circle
J.D. Heiskell & Company Lagomarsino Group Preferred Outlets at Tulare Res-Com Pest Control Saputo Cheese USA, Inc Tulare Advance Register Tulare Regional Medical Center

Directors Circle
International Agri Center Land O Lakes MC Solutions

Ambassadors Circle
Adair & Evans, An Accountancy Corporation Citizens Business Bank

College of the Sequoias Horswill, Mederos & Soares Lane Engineers, Inc. Quad Knopf, Inc. Ruan Transportation Corporation Sturgeon & Beck, Inc. Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino Will Tiesiera Ford-Mercury, Inc.

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize these members who have gone above and beyond membership investment in 2010. Their support is instrumental in the growth of the Chamber.

page 4 October 2010

NETwORKING OPPORTUNITIES

tulare chamber the update

October Calendar
4 & 5 Encore Theatre Co.
Auditions for Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) 7:15 p.m. at Encore Theatre. 324 South N Street, Tulare. Callbacks will be announced. Cast is open to adults. Be prepared to sing, read, and dance. All audition material will be provided. Show dates are December 3,4,5,10,11,12,15,17,18, 2010. Directed by Denyse Weaver. More information contact Denyse at (559) 805-6388.

Member News
(continued from page 3) the founders of museum will be recognized. Winners of the Essay Writing Contest will be announced. The museum is featuring a display of Early Day Museum Memorabilia, in the Audio-Visual Room. The collection includes photos, artifacts and newspaper articles of the museums beginning years. Take a ride back in history to the early days of the founding of our museum. The museum is located at 444 W. Tulare Ave., Tulare. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. In addition to their regular hours, the meseum will be open the third Sunday of the month for free, during the months of September to May to correlate with their Sunday @ 2:00 program. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors 55+ and Southern California Automobile Club members, $2 for students, and free for Tulare City Historical Society members and children under 5 years old. Please view their website for more information on these events or to purchase tickets online at: www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org. If you have any questions, please call: (559) 686-2074. After nearly 25 years, the first floor of Tulare Regional Medical Center is being

5 & 7 Chamber of Commerce Member Summit

This Town Hall meeting will allow you, our members, to tell us what we do well and where we can grow. Topics include: Economic Development, Business Services, Networking, Opportunities, Chamber Website, Governmental Affairs, Leadership Tulare, Ambassador Program. Tuesday, October 5th 4-6 p.m. or Thursday, October 7th, 4-6 p.m., International Agri-Center, 4500 South Laspina, Tulare. Join us on the date that best fits your Schedule. Please RSVP by October 1st to the Chamber at (559) 6861547 or kingram@tularechamber.org

7 Employment Development Department

Get it Right from the Start; you are invited to attend the Federal/State Basic Payroll Tax Seminar, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tulare County Workforce Investment Department Professional Development Center, 4031 West Noble, 2nd Floor Visalia. No charge for this seminar. To make reservations, use the Internet: www.edd.ca.gov/Payroll_Tax_ Seminars/ or call (866) 873-6086

The Tulare Veterans Service Office, AmVets, celebrated the move to their new location with a ribbon cutting. The afternoon began with the raising of the American flag, then the knell of a bell, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Once inside, guests were able to tour the newly renovated building, munch on delicious hors doeuvres, and listen to the patriotic sounds of the Tulare Community Band. If you are a veteran, AmVets Veterans Service Office is available to answer all of your questions and offer you assistance. To learn more about the AmVets and the services that are available, please visit their new office at 120 North M Street or call 685-2446.

Thank you to our volunteers

remodeled. The remodel is to prepare for the completion of the Medical Tower Expansion. The remodel allows us the opportunity to test materials determining their durability prior to installation in the Medical Tower stated Viktoria Meyers, Vice President of Business Development. In addition to the first floor remodel, Tulare Regional Medical Center has opened an Out Patient Draw Station and moved the Home Care Services Office to Cherry Ave. Hillman Healthcare Center, A Division of Tulare Regional Medical Center, is expanding womens services and will be welcoming the medical specialty clinic currently located on Cherry Ave. The Sleep Disorder Center, currently located on the first floor of the main hospital is moving off site, into the current Cherry Healthcare Center, to make room for additional patient rooms within the hospital. According to Meyers, These improvements allow Tulare Regional Medical Center to continue providing access to quality care throughout the region. The 115,000 Square Foot Medical Tower Expansion is continuing on course. A live web cam has been established to view the construction progress and can be seen by logging on to www.TulareRegional.org We appreciate the communities support during our facility update and expansion, Meyers added. We would love to share your news. Please send to kingram@tularechamber.org.

11 Tulare Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee 12 Tulare Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors
meeting, 12 noon at various locations. For location and information call 686-1547.

meeting, 12 noon at Apple Annies in Tulare. Information: 686-1547.

Ambassador of the Month

Terry Sayre was named our Ambassador of the Month for August. Terry attends mixers, ambassador meetings, and ribbon cuttings on a regular basis. She is always willing to help wherever necessary. Its wonderful to have Terry as an Ambassador! To learn more about the Ambassador Program, please call the Chamber at 686-1547.

14 Southern California Edison AgTAC

presents Piensa Verde, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. 5:00-8:00 p.m. Save-theDate. More information to follow.

14 Candidates Forum

Tulare Senior Center, 201 North F Street, 7 to 9 p.m. Come and meet the candidates for Tulare City Council, Tulare High School District Board and C.O.S. Board. Presented by the Tulare Chamber of Commerce, for more informationcall the Chamber at 686-1547.

19 Celebrate the 15th Anniversary of Hazels Kitchen

237 North L Street at 5 pm. Delicious appetizers, desserts, and beverages.

Each month, a group of lovely ladies volunteer their Monday morning to help prepare our newsletter for mailing. They stuff, fold, and stick labels on more than 650 newsletters. Standing is Betty Pence, then clockwise: Linda Hicks, Alice Speer, Kay Dick, Norma Molder, and Wanda Boswell. The Chamber appreciates their willingness to help us with this task every month, and always with smiling faces. Thanks, ladies!

20 Tulare Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 21 Soroptimist Luncheon

Tulare Chamber Office, 220 East Tulare Ave., 4 p.m. More information: 686-1547. The Tulare Soroptimist Club will hold its annual fall salad luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21 at Tulare First Baptist Church on the corner of Cross Avenue and Cherry Street.

Chamber Mixer

21 Chamber Mixer

Tulare Historical Museum, 444 West Tulare Ave., 5 to 7 p.m. Bring plenty of Business Cards, this is a wonderful networking opportunity! Food; Door prizes: 50-50 Drawing. This is a free event. More information: 686-1547.

25 Tulare Historical Museum

20th Annual Taste Treats of Tulare. International Agri-Center, Heritage Complex, 4500 South Laspina St., Tulare. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $45 and are available at the Tulare Historical Museum, 444 W. Tulare Ave. or from any Board Member. For more information or tickets: 686-2074

27-31 Return of the Haunted Theatre

Encore Theatre, 324 South N Street, Tulare. A scary tour awaits those brave enough to dare it. More information soon.

30 Oktoberfest

International Agri Center, Farm Credit Dairy Center Building, 4450 South Laspina St, Tulare. 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door. Presented by the Tulare Noon Kiwanis Club. For tickets or more information call Bridgette at 688-5263 or www.tularenoonkiwanis.org

Thank you to Valley Business Bank for hosting our August mixer! This beautiful bank had the perfect atmosphere for mixing and networking. Guests were treated to veggie, cheese, and fruit platters from Mikey Vs, refreshing drinks and wines, along with fantastic homemade desserts. Many of those in attendance won door prizes. To learn more about Valley Business Bank and the services they provide, please call 687-3351 or visit them at 1901 East Prosperity.