Job postings, member discounts, and a new and improved searchable database are just a few of the changes we have made to the Chamber’s website.  If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to go to www.visaliachamber.org and see for yourself how easy it is to find what you are looking for.  We have been hard at work redesigning our website to make it more user-friendly and more business-friendly as we continue to offer an unparalleled array of opportunities for business leaders.

Recently, the new Visalia City Council met for its annual planning session.   They spent the better part of two days receiving updates and providing direction to the city staff on issues ranging from gangs to open space preservation to economic development and long-range city planning.   At the end of the retreat, the Council identified five areas where they indicated they wanted increased emphasis and focus during the coming year.    These include economic development, finishing the West Visalia/Scenic Corridor plan, identifying a local economic stimulus program, streamlining the building permit process, and combating gangs in our community.

The Chamber and City have had a long history of working together for the betterment of the community.  There have been times when this relationship was more adversarial than others, and times when it was direct, constructive and productive.  It is no accident that during times of close cooperation, communication and consultation Visalia developed some of the most progressive, and lasting, community development efforts.  Conversely, during times of poor communication, there has been less progress and support.

On December 31, 2009, thirty-three employees of the McDermont Field House and Sports Center in Lindsay were laid off.  The City of Lindsay, which owns McDermont Field House, is using an innovative way to utilize grant funds received by a city grant. All employees laid off are being given the opportunity to start their own business at McDermont Field House.

A revolutionary service is now available for home owners who want to keep more money in their control.  It is done without re-financing, no bi-weekly payments, and not increasing the minimum required monthly payments and with little to no change of your lifestyle or spending habits!

The Visalia Chamber of Commerce Leadership Visalia Class began its day session titled “Educating and Empowering Our Community” at the College of the Sequoias on January 15th, 2010. It was facilitated by one of the Leadership Visalia class members, Orlando Gomez of Family HealthCare Network. Class members were greeted by Steve Renton, COS Public Information Officer, and he courteously facilitated a walking tour of the campus, highlighted by the new Nursing Building.

This is the time of the season for the theater arts programs in VUSD to kick into full gear.  This past fall, our school bands and choirs performed and competed throughout the state and region collecting championships and awards and connecting hundreds of students to their schools through positive personal relationships!

At a recent company gathering, agents with All Estates Realtors, Tulare County’s largest non-franchise real estate company, were not only treated to a smorgasbord of food, but to a smorgasbord of awards as well. The company’s top awards went to Rosa Jimenez for Top Closed Units and to Jackie Pemelton for Top Closed Volume. Jackie also garnered the award for Top Listing Units and Volume.

Tulare County’s version of the popular television program, “Antiques Roadshow”, is returning for the 9th year on Saturday, March 20th, 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Visalia Holiday Inn.  This event will feature both local and regional appraisers.

You’ve seen the commercials, know the jingle, and chances are, you have probably either purchased or serviced your car at one of the 11 franchises owned by Don Groppetti, of Groppetti Automotive.  Entering his 16th year of business, Don has built his company on a commitment to the community, something he believes sets him apart from his competitors.  “A car is a car … you can buy one anywhere,” explains owner Don Groppetti, “but our staff embraces the idea that giving back to the community is what we’re all about,” he describes.