JAN 2019 – President’s article by Marissa Kramer

Happy New Year Redlands Chamber Members!
By Marissa Kramer, President

It is such an honor for me to be addressing you as the 2019 President. As I pre-write this article I’m anticipating still being in a daze from the New Year’s Eve Drop and I can’t say that it isn’t from the Orange Drop Martinis! What a fun event this has been to plan with the rest of NYE Committee Drop-ees! It has definitely been one of the best committees to Chair and, although I welcome a break, I cannot wait to begin planning the festivities for the next one!

The Board of Directors definitely has its work cut out for themselves this year as we will take a more active role in assisting the Chamber staff while we try to fill the role Executive Director position. Please keep in mind, that we will never fill Kathie’s shoes, but we are searching for someone with (hopefully, at least, half) her tenacity and dedication to the Chamber, its membership, and the City of Redlands. We certainly wish her well in her retirement and hope she really does take up those golf lessons or yoga classes that she’s been speaking so fondly of over the past few months.

The Executive Director Search Committee has been selected and is comprised of past Chamber Presidents; they will accept, review, and interview the candidates for the position. We are looking to fill the position by April so if there any viable candidates please do not hesitate to send them my way.

The Young Professional Network is on a roll and if you aren’t a part of it, you’re missing out (plain and simple). The YPN Committee has scheduled out the first quarter of 2019 and will have some amazing “Coffee with Fill, (In The Blank)” speakers and more Workshops to come. Please inform the younger professionals you know to be a part of this as this is a group that is really going places.

Business to Business and Rise and Shine are still scheduled as normal and going strong, and are both (by far) two of the best Networking events that the Chamber hosts each month. I cannot tell you how invaluable these two events are, not only professionally, but personally as well. These two meetings offer such a great atmosphere to meet new people, see and visit with already-established Chamber members, and hear about events and goings-on that are upcoming.

I’m so excited to see what 2019 has in store for the Chamber, its various Committees, and membership. I understand the legacy of this organization that well pre-dates me and hope that I can provide a year of growth and development of the existing events and committees. Like I said, I am honored that I have been entrusted with this position and will do my very best to keep this train on the tracks and moving forward.

JAN 2019 – Young Professionals Network making plans for 2019

Young Professionals Network making plans for 2019 The Young Professionals Network was reintroduced into the Redlands Chamber of Commerce program in 2018 and we are going strong into 2019.

One of our first events was our networking workshops, learning how to network “Face to Face.” Past Chamber President Scott Welsh and Dianna Lawson with Mansion Memories spoke about various topics such as how to build rapport, how to network, and how to build relationships.

The Young Professional’s Network presented a brand new concept, “Coffee with FILL…(In the blank)” At the first Coffee with Fill, we had the honor of having coffee with Mayor Paul Foster, who shared information about what was going on in our community, what the challenges are in the immediate future and how we might become involved in the solutions. The second Coffee with Fill had Police Chief, Chris Catren, join the group, sharing the business of public safety in the city, addressing homeless issues and challenges and again how the YPN can get involved in the future of Redlands.

We are very excited about what we have been working on to present to you in 2019! You can expect more great speakers at “Coffee with Fill” and some incredible networking events. Stay tuned!!

JAN 2019 – Member Profile – Children’s Fund

Children’s Fund creating a better place for our children

The idea of the Children’s Fund, located at 348 W. Hospitality Lane, Suite 110, San Bernardino, was recommended in 1985 as a better way to deliver services to at-risk children that fell under the responsibility of the respective County departments. Led by Patrick J. Morris, the then presiding Judge of the Juvenile Court, a Policy Council was formed. After reviewing many scenarios the endorsement was made to add a nonprofit 501(c) (3) component to the Children’s Network.

In 1986 Children’s Fund was founded. Jack H. Brown, then Chairman & CEO of Stater Bros. Markets was the Founding Chairman of the Board of Directors. Realizing that children “in the system” were not always getting their needs met, Children’s Fund was created as a non-profit organization to be able to serve the children in our county who are in the most need of our support.

The Children’s Fund serves children in multiple ways.  

Emergency Needs

The Children’s Fund Emergency Needs Program is used by social workers and case managers to give direct assistance to at-risk children, providing items such as food, clothing, beds, shelter, transportation, medical and dental care, providing equal opportunity for social development for these children.

Community Outreach

Partnering with several community benefit organizations on projects that serve children, Children’s Fund also coordinates special campaigns including the annual Celebration of Giving, collecting tens of thousands of holiday gifts for disadvantaged children throughout the county. In addition, throughout the year we collect backpacks filled with school supplies; winter coats to help the underprivileged stay warm in the colder areas of our region; a lunch pail drive; and hygiene products to encourage healthy children.

Children’s Fund has identified special projects that require ongoing support, such as the Children’s Assessment Center, San Bernardino County’s only one-stop center designed to reduce the trauma of child abuse victims by allowing them to tell their story once while receiving treatment by specially-trained forensic physicians and staff in a child-friendly setting. Other championed projects include support for the homeless youth and educational opportunities for foster children who otherwise would not be able to get a higher education.

Children’s Fund is committed to enhancing the quality of life for local children. We invest today in brighter tomorrows for those who need it most – the at-risk youth in our communities. Every child deserves a chance at a prosperous life, empowered by knowing that others believe in them.

Together, they have the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of these children. See how you can get involved today! Call 379-0000 or log onto www. Childrensfund.org.

JAN 2019 – Honoring those who serve

For more than 100 years the Redlands Chamber of Commerce has celebrated the installation of new directors and officers who have volunteered to serve not only the chamber but the entire business community.

This year on Wednesday, January 23rd, Marissa Kramer, Manager of the Ayres Hotel Redlands will receive the gavel from 2018 Chamber President, Scott Welsh, Welsh Insurance Services, and will begin her service as the Chamber President 2019. Mark Orr, Teamster 1932 will be announced as President Elect for the year 2020.

At the same time Director Matt Leeds, White Frog Designs will be stepping down after six years of service.

Justin Bouzane, The Results Group, Wm. Tooke, Mirau, Edwards, Cannon Lewin and Tooke and Brina Limon, Storage West will all be installed as new directors to serve three years

During the evening the Man of the Year 2018, the Woman of the Year 2018, the Police Officer of the Year 2018 and the Firefighter of the Year, 2018 will be announced.

The event will take place at the Casa Loma Room, University of Redlands beginning at 6:00 PM.  Reservations are required, $55.00 per person.

JAN 2019 – New Chamber Members – December

ALAMO’S GALERIA
Juan Marquez
404 E. Redlands Blvd
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 894-3036

BELLA PELLE
Colleen Preci
407 E. Citrus Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 838-4213

KELLER WILLIAMS – REBEKAH PARENTEAU
Rebekah Parenteau
1473 Ford Street, Suite 200
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 456-9805

JAN 2019 – Chamber Members Renewing December

AAA ALARM SYSTEMS
TBM FIRE & SECURIT
278 Tennessee Street, Suite 8
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2194

ALLSTATE INSURANCE
Todd Underwood
1263 Brookside, Suite C
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-1002

ARROYO VISTA APARTMENTS, LLC
Monica Pietsch
1444 Orange Avenue #69
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 335-9970

BEAVER MEDICAL GROUP
Marianne Baldwin
2 W. Fern
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-3311

BENCHMARK YOUNG ADULT SCHOOL, INC.
Jayne Selby-Longnecker
25612 Barton Road #286
Loma Linda, CA 92354
Phone: 888-999-3983

BRIGHT WATER SENIOR LIVING
Erika Rodriguez
28807 Baseline
Highland, CA 92346
Phone: 742-7353

BROOKSIDE HEALTHCARE CENTER
Tim Mason
105 Terracina Blvd
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2271

CBDM REDLANDS, LLC
Manager
1331 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 798-6330

CHASE BANK
Vangie Kent
555 No. Eureka, Suite 100
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-4450

COUNTRY INN & SUITES
E. K. Lee
1650 Industrial Park Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 792-7913

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON SAN BERNARDINO
Craig Stahl
285 E. Hospitality Lane
San Bernardino, CA 92408
Phone: 889-0133

EL CAMINO RANCH, LLC
Theresa Houchin
11363 Walnut Street
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 801-0029

EMPIRE BOWLING CENTER, LLC
Will Mossonette
940 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 793-2525

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SAN BERNARDINO AREA
David Hahn
25948 Business Center Drive
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 378-1176

HIGH 5 INDOOR PLAYGROUND
Benny Phan
811 Tri-City Center
Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: 798-2828

HIS HOUSE/NEW CREATION TREATMENT CENTER
9491 Pittsburgh Avenue
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Phone: 942-9498

HOPE GUIDED IMAGERY AND MUSIC
Amy-Lynn Dimaano
414 Tennessee Street, Suite Y
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 323-394-0860

KIMBERLY-SHIRK ASSOCIATION
Tonja Blankenship
1325 Prospect Drive Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-2111

OPTION HOUSE, INC.
Heather Stevning
813 North D Street
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Phone: 383-1602

OZEL JEWELERS OF REDLANDS
Emanuel Jacobson
2 E. State Street
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-7986

P & R PAPER SUPPLY
Joseph Maiberger
1898 E. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 794-1108

PCH ARCHITECTS, LLP
Pedro Jaramillo
30 So. Center Street
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-7397

RAYNES|ERICKSON ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Jeffrey Erickson
300 E. State Street, Suite 690
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-6800

REDLANDS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
Dee Ann Parra
P. O. Box 7152
Redlands, CA 92375

REDLANDS PRINT SHOP & COPY CENTER, INC.
Earl Luevano
409 E. Citrus Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 792-7221

REDLANDS SPINE & SPORT, INC.
Michael Donia DC
1455 W. Park Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2225

SHOULDER TO SHOULDER COMMUNICATIONS
Toni Momberger
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 213-2169

STAR AUTO PARTS
Sandy Vanhassel
535 W. Redlands Blvd
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 793-2168

STATE FARM INSURANCE
Joe Amliani
1615 W. Redlands Blvd, Suite D
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 894-4619

THE RESULTS GROUP
Jessica Bouzane
214 E. Vine Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 345-0909

UNIVERSITY OF REDLANDS
Dr. Ralph Kunci
P. O. Box 3080
Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 748-8060

VANTAGEONE REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS, LLC
Tom Robinson
4 Corporate Plaza Drive, Suite 210
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: 949-631-6620

JAN 2019 – Member Profile – General Technique

General Technique your technology partner General Technique was started over twenty years ago with a singular vision: to create a business where the customer comes first. They strive every day to meet this vision. They have built a business that has deep and lasting customer relationships, with the type of trust that can only come with time and excellent service.

As technology evolves General Technique is working hard to keep ahead of the trends and solutions that can bring true value to our customers. We believe in the pillars of the enterprise: storage, networking and computing – and will also be your expert guide in new trends such as software defined data centers, converged infrastructures and cloud computing that can improve our customer’s business efficiencies, lower their costs, and make them more agile and high-performing businesses and organizations.

General Technique is a full service technology provider that specializes in helping businesses develop and maintain all aspects of their business technology including digital advertising, information technology and managed services. Located at Since every business is different, they provide personal, one-on-one service to our clients. This ensures that each solution is designed and implemented specifically for the needs of each individual client.

Few things bring your workday to a halt like when the network is down. Each minute of downtime can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in terms of lost productivity and sales. General Technique’s Full-Service Program is designed to dramatically reduce downtime. It pairs comprehensive IT support that resolves network and device issues quickly, along with preventative maintenance that helps reduce the number of issues in the first place. In addition, it offers further support that covers a range of business-critical areas such as security, backup, and mobility—all offered alongside strategic IT planning to support your business as it grows and evolves.

With this approach, your business has complete 24/7 IT service that keeps essential aspects of the business up and running—all through one point of contact at one predictable cost.

Their goal is to provide you with solutions while serving as your technology partner. Using a consultative approach to evaluate your business and technology needs they then advise on the best solution for your current and future needs.

General Technique can help mobilize your workforce. Mobility is critical not only for employee satisfaction and productivity, but also for your organization’s bottom line. Small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) everywhere are revamping business models to empower employees through mobile solutions.

Like any technology trend, mobility has its challenges. Allowing employees to access your small business network via mobile devices, like smartphones and tablets, requires enhanced security provisions, increased management and new mobile device policies. Mobile technology has become an essential tool for many small businesses and if used correctly will increase employees’ overall productivity, efficiency and agility. And in the long term, increase your profitability.

Located at 1425 Industrial Park Ave. General Technique has the technical solution for you. Call them at 793-7400 or log onto www.generaltechnique.com

DEC 2018 – Chamber to host the Annual Installation Dinner and Civic Awards

Chamber to host the Annual Installation Dinner and Civics Award Ceremony in January 23rd
The Redlands Chamber of Commerce will present new directors and welcome new officers to the organization Wednesday, January 23rd, 6 PM at the Casa Loma Room, University of Redlands.
After the installation of directors and officers, attendees will be treated to the announcement of the prestigious Man and Woman of the Year and Police and Firefighter of the Year Awards. While selections are made earlier, all four awards are held in secret until the announcement that evening creating an air of excitement and surprise until the very last revelation.
Tickets are limited, reservations are necessary $55 per person. For more information about the dinner and to make your reservations call the Chamber office at 793-2546

DEC 2018 – It’s hard to say goodbye

It’s hard to say goodbye

By Kathie Thurston, Executive Director

There is no doubt that it is always hard to say good bye but as certain as is the pain in departure the inevitable must happen and the time has come for me to leave the Chamber.

As I sit here at my computer trying to put into words how I feel about leaving this amazing organization, a song is softly playing in the background, the lyrics repeating, “Making memories with you” and it struck me that is exactly what I take with me after 30 years at the Redlands Chamber. Thirty years of extraordinary friendships, thirty years of fun and laughter, thirty years of tears and sorrow, but thirty years of the most magnificent memories that one could ever hope for.

I have had the privilege of working with amazing people over the years who have taught me much, helped me to grow and filled my life beyond description.

There have been great events and games, innovative ideas and creative agendas, all brought to fruition by amazing volunteers. There were silly times filled with laughter, and serious times where tears came easily. And every memory will be treasured forever.

As the Orange Drops on New Year’s Eve in downtown Redlands this year it will be a bitter sweet moment for me as that will be my last official duty with the Chamber. The very next day I will join the ranks of retired boomers, taking yoga classes, playing pickle ball, and bocce ball, and finding my new normal.

And so to all of you… my new friends… my not so new friends… my young friends…. and my not so young friends, thank you, for all you have done, for all you have given me and for all those wonderful memories…this is not good-bye as that’s too hard to say… instead I’ll simple say “I’ll see you soon”.

 

 

DEC 2018 – Chamber encourages shopping in Redlands

Chamber encourages shopping in Redlands during holiday season

Keeping tax dollars in town is an important part of the equation when talking about the city’s financial well-being, but more importantly shopping locally supports the local businesses, helps retain jobs, and circulates dollars in the community.

Small businesses employ local people local people. They support local charities and offer personal services. Local businesses patronizes local businesses, they join local service clubs and support local athletic programs.

You really can find almost anything you need here in Redlands.

We have:

  • Retail and wholesale
  • Restaurants and caterers
  • Printers, writers and designers
  • Gift shops, ice cream and toy stores
  • Bike shops and car dealers
  • Home improvement stores and maintenance servers
  • Photographers, artisans and musicians
  • Pet stores and services
  • Gourmet food and wine
  • Personal and professional services

So before you make a purchase ask yourself if you can Shop Redlands first.