WIB-2014-Online.pdf

May 2014THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALsuccessful women in business edition3Premier Marketing andValley EventsKELLY SHIREYFleet Manager,Paradise Chevrolet CadillacBECKY YOUNGKelly is owner of Premier Marketing and Valley Events.Premier Marketing is a full-service advertising and publicrelations agency and Valley Events provides event planningservices for corporate and community events. Both companieshave been operating for more than 15 years. Kelly comments,“We have several clients that have been with us for the entiretime we have been in business. We attribute that to the fact thatwe care about their success.”Kelly’s family moved to Temecula in 1973, when there was alittle bit of nothing in our now thriving community. Kelly hadthe opportunity to experience Temecula’s growth and watchthe city become what it is today. “I feel so fortunate to have hadthe opportunity to watch Temecula grow and be a part of suchan incredible community,” says Kelly.Kelly served six year’s on the Temecula Valley Chamberof Commerce Board of Directors, five of those years on theExecutive Board. She has served as a Board Member for manylocal charitable and non-profit organizations including the Boys& Girls Clubs of Southwest Counties, All From The Heart, Racefor Humanity, and the Temecula Valley Convention and Visitor’sBureau. Past volunteerism and projects include the CommunityRecreation Center Building Foundation, Susan G. Komen RaceFor the Cure, Canine Support Teams Golf Tournament, Balloonand Wine Festival and over fifteen years of service on severalTVCC committees.Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband Scott, their 4children and 2 grand children. “It’s a wonderful life,” says Kelly.Contact Information:(951) 757-1567kelly@tvpinc.netWEB: premiermarketingsc.comvalleyeventplanners.comBecky Young, Fleet Manager for Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac inTemecula, has worked with General Motors for over 30 years.Becky is very passionate about her position as Fleet Managerat Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac. She also loves being involved incommunity events. You have probably seen Becky at most everycommunity event in Fallbrook, Temecula and Murrieta. WhateverBecky does, she does with passion. She loves her job and it shows.Becky contributes her success to the commitment she has to thethings she believes in. “I can sell anything”, says Becky. “Howeverit is much easier and fun to sell what I believe in, and I believe inthe Chevrolet and Cadillac product and I believe in the dealershipI work for.” Terry Gilmore, President/Owner of Paradise ChevroletCadillac comments, “Becky has been and continues to be a positiveinfluence in our community and for our dealership.”Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac recently was awarded theEconomic Development Corporation’s Annual OutstandingSustainable Business Award and, Terry Gilmore received the 2013TVCC Citizen of the Year award. In addition, Gilmore recentlyreceived the Ally Auto Dealer Hero Award, which he was chosenamongst many peers in the auto industry based on communityservice and impact within the community.Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac proudly offers the ParadiseAdvantage Program which benefits every customer who purchasesor leases a new or used GM vehicle from Paradise. Some of thebenefits include lifetime oil changes, trade in value guarantee, 72hour exchange policy, door ding repairs and $100 off body shoprepairs.“We implemented the Paradise Advantage Program to giveour customers additional value for purchasing from Paradise. Thisis also our way of saying “Thank You” to our valued customers,” saysParadise Chevrolet Cadillac’s General Manager, Todd Tracy.RPContactRInformation:P(951) 903-3311WEB: www.paradiseautos.comWomen in Business 2014

4THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALwww.TheValleyBusinessJournal.comMay 2014Esther N. Phahla, CPA,A Professional CorporationWomen in Business 2014California Bank & TrustTemecula Valley OfficeBranch ManagerVERA NEDELJKOVICVera Nedeljkovic, a 14-year resident of the Temecula Valleyarea and a Vice President of California Bank & Trust was recentlyappointed Branch Manager of the bank’s Temecula Valley Officelocated at 416415 Winchester Road.With a career in banking that spans 40 years, Vera is devotedto the community and looks forward to working with herbranch team to help area businesses succeed and grow thearea’s economy.“Temecula is a wonderful community and I’m lookingforward to working with our great team here at the branch topromote financial success in our community,” Vera explains. “I’vehelped many businesses in the area by customizing our set ofsophisticated financial solutions to meet strategic goals andadd more value to their business.”“The way I see it, a client’s success becomes my success.No business is too big or too small for me to get involved tooffer my personal insights to improve a company’s finances andstreamline their operations,” Vera said.“I help start-ups, expanding businesses, and even businessesthat are downsizing grow and prosper. I view all of our clients aspart of our bank’s extended family. My priority is to provide highlypersonalized service to build long-lasting client relationships –and best of all, I love what I do,” she added.Before joining CB&T, Vera was a vice president and branchmanager at BBVA Compass in Canyon Lake. She has expertisein business development, business and commercial lending,and compliance. Vera earned her bachelor’s degree at the ZmajUniversity College of Economy in Yugoslavia and is a member ofthe Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce and Women’s PeerConnection.Contact Information:(951) 296-2422WEB: www.calbanktrust.comEsther PhahlaEsther Phahla is the President /CEO ofthe 2013 Sterling Business of the Year by theTemecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, EstherN. Phahla, CPA, A Professional Corporation,specializing in tax planning and tax preparation services for smallbusinesses and individuals. She is a Certified Public Accountantand a Certified Tax Coach. She holds a Master of Science in Taxationfrom Golden Gate University and a Law degree from South Africa.Esther was selected as the 2013 honoree for the 25 Most PowerfulWomen in Public Accounting Awards by the CPA Practice Advisor.She is the best selling Co-Author of a tax planning book “Why Didn’tMy CPA Tell Me THAT”.She is active in the community through ToastmastersInternational, Rotary Club of Temecula, Susan G. Komen InlandEmpire, Temecula Chamber of Commerce, Murrieta Chamberof Commerce as well as the Women’s Peer Connection. She hasreceived numerous awards, such as Division Governor of the Year,Lydia Boyd Leadership Excellence Team Award and 40 under Fortyoutstanding achievements and community service.She enjoys spending time with her husband and watching herdaughter, Hope, doing gymnastics.Contact Information:(951) 514-2652WEB: www.estherphahlacpa.comOwner/AgentJulie NgoIn 2006, Julie Ngo became owner of her ownState Farm Insurance agency in Temecula. She had previously workedfor a corporate style insurance company that put everyone into onemold. She wanted to run her own agency differently.She and her team meet with clients at least once a year for review.“We evaluate your life and finances to insure you properly. We want tomake sure your insurance is protecting the lifestyle, assets, and familyyou have today, not ten years ago. Our main goal is to protect you andyour loved ones against unexpected losses. We do all this while beingefficient with your money.”The first step in lessening your financial risk is knowing whoyour insurance company is. “There is nothing worse than watchingyour home burn down and not know who insures it.” Julie says. “Thishappens more often than you think!”Growing up in San Diego, Julie never dreamed of selling insurance.But once she started in the industry, she realized the huge importanceof it. “When you visit a family after a tragic car accident, or help a familypiece back together their home of twenty years because they left acandle on and burned down the house, you realize why insurance –the transfer of risk – is so important.”Contact Information:(951) 695-2625julie@juliengo.comWEB: www.juliengo.com

May 2014THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALsuccessful women in business edition5Enrolled Agent and Partner,Financial Accounting ServicesNicole AlbrechtCommunity leader, Nicole Albrecht, is nowendorsed by Financial Guru, Dave Ramsey. She hasrecently celebrated her 13th anniversary with theaward winning tax and investment firm, FinancialAccounting Services.Albrecht is not only a valuable asset to her firm, but also to theTemecula Valley by serving as an executive board member to theMurrieta Chamber of Commerce. Her passion is to help change thelives of others through a 9 week course that instills financial wisdomand provides tools to build wealth and minimize debt. She alsovolunteers her time leading teen financial studies at CornerstoneCommunity Church, Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, OakGrove and is involved in a Leadership program that helps ensure ourregion’s long-term prosperity. Her commitment is no less challengingat home, where she balances work with raising her 16 year old son,Tristan.She has been a regular guest author for The Valley Business Journal,providing tax tips and financial advice. Nicole’s Partner and Founderof FAS, Fred Karma, is quick to admit that Nicole has accomplishedmany goals adding, “Nicole has blossomed into a true leader in thiscommunity”.Contact Information:(951) 719-1515nicolea@taxmanfred.comWEB: www.taxmanfred.comPresidentImpact Marketing &Coworking ConnectionDIONE MOSERVoted 2013 Murrieta Chamber of CommerceEntrepreneur of the Year, Dione Moser is yourfriend and partner in business.More often than not, you can find her atCoworking Connection, 25185 Madison Ave. inMurrieta. Founded by Moser in 2011, businesspeople can becomemembers of a community that offers flexible office space customizedto their needs.It is also where Moser continues her work as President of ImpactMarketing & Design, Inc. a company she founded in 1999 with thepurpose of assembling custom marketing programs for businesses.Services offered include consulting, promotional products, apparel,uniforms, printing, and design.She elaborates that her specialty is “not just about putting a logoon something… It is about helping businesses strategize, to developcampaigns targeted at their specific, ideal market, that increase brandawareness and most importantly revenue.”In the same spirit of business growth, Moser says that is why she isexcited about what Coworking Connection has become. The membersare the focus of the community thatencourages productivity, collaborationand success!Contact Information:(888) 441-1233WEB: www.impact.mswww.coworkingconnection.comAzusa Pacific University Murrieta Regional CenterStudent Services Team (from left to right):Gloria Wolnick, Maria Buffington-Guido,Rose ThierryValuing StudentsAzusa Pacific University is celebrating 30 years in SW RiversideCounty! They attribute a substantial part of their success tocombining quality education with exceptional student services.One of the hallmarks of the Azusa Pacific University (APU) MurrietaRegional Center is that they value each of their students and careabout their future.To help achieve the goal of excellent student services, theAPU Murrieta “Student Services Team” provides personal supportthroughout the student’s APU Murrieta education experienceand then through alumni events.In celebration of APU Murrieta’s 30 year anniversary, APUMurrieta is celebrating the “Student Services Team!” Plus, here aresome comments from students about this team,“They provide an awesome support system and are suchcaring people.”“As students, we are not treated as just a number, but as aperson with a name.”“We experience efficient, courteous, and exceptionalcustomer service.”Please stop by and visit us at our new state-of-the-art facility.Our Student Services Team looks forward to meeting you!Contact Information:(951) 304-3400murrieta@apu.eduWEB: www.apu.edu/murrieta/Women in Business 2014

THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL6 successful women in business editionMay 2014Stefani Laszko is the President of Mythos Technology. After sevenyears with a Fortune 500 company, Stefani caught the entrepreneurialbug and joined her husband James in creating Mythos Technology atthe beginning of 2010. Mythos is an IT management and consultingfirm specializing in overall Business Technology Management, PrintManagement and Voice over IP Services. She has a true passion forhelping businesses gain efficiencies though technology. Stefani is amember and past Chairwoman of the Women’s Peer Connection anda member of the Michelle’s Place, Breast Cancer Resource Center’sExecutive Board.Natassia Roman is the Director of Operations of MythosTechnology. Natassia began working with James in 2008 and has beenwith Mythos from the beginning. Natassia is a crucial member of theteam and works daily to streamline the processes and systems thatMythos has deployed to effectively gain efficiencies and ensure clientsatisfaction. Natassia is a member of the Women’s Peer Connectionand the Temecula Valley New Gen Rotary.Contact Information:(951) 813-2672WEB: www. mythostech.comMythos Technology Inc.Stefani LaszkoNATASSIA ROMANInterior Designer, Decorating Den InteriorsVanessa BanksVanessa Banks, interior designer and ownerof Decorating Den Interiors has furnished localresidents with interior design services for ten years.She is a graduate of Design Institute of San Diego.She participates in nonprofit groups, several women’snetworking groups and community fundraisers.Vanessa believes that designers should educate clients about thetechnical aspects of design, that design should improve the quality oflife and be appropriate for client usage. Vanessa has lived in Temeculawith her family for 20 years.Contact: (951) 541-2695WEB: VanessaBanks.DecoratingDen.comOwner, Vail Ranch Self Storage & Postal CenterSue DiLuigiVail Ranch Self Storage & Postal Center is a familyowned and operated facility located in the heart ofTemecula. Sue prides herself in offering a personalizedtouch to storage facility management. They offera positive storage experience by providing a safe,clean, convenient, facility with customer service thatis geared to making everyone feel at home. They have expanded toinclude R.V. & Boat Storage, Wine Storage, and a Full Service PostalCenter. Just look for the silo!Contact: (951) 302-0204WEB SITE: www.vailranchselfstorage.comFinancial Advisor,Edward JonesAllyson TrantumPresident, Glass DoctorLAUREL MILLERWomen in Business 2014A financial services professionalfor 32 years, Allyson assists the babyboomer generation of business owners,executives and professionals plan fortheir financial futures. She focuses onhelping her clients keep more of what they earn. She utilizes a reliablearray of retirement plans and investments - bonds, mutual funds,stocks, annuities, CD’s and money markets. She coaches her clients andcoordinates with their cpa’s and attorneys to develop their individualfinancial solutions.Allyson graduated from CA State University, Northridge with a B.S.in Business Administration and minor in accounting. She obtained herCPA and ran her own accounting firm for 8 years before changing careers17 years ago. While she no longer practices accounting, she understandswhat its like to be a small business owner. In her quest for additionalknowledge, Allyson achieved her CFP® in 2006.As a result of her outstanding service and commitment to excellence,Allyson has built a solid base of clients largely through referrals.Allyson actively serves the community and is a dedicated ten yearRotarian.In her leisure, Allyson enjoys traveling, scrapbooking, and spendingtime with her husband of 22 years, Andy and her children Ryan and Nicole.Contact Information:25186 Hancock Ave #310Murrieta CA 92562(951) 304-2016WEB: www.edwardjones.comMember SIPCLaurel Miller, President of the Glass DoctorMurrieta, has many things to say about herexperiences as a business owner in Murrieta.“Most impactful have been the relationships I have made withother business owners,” says Laurel.Laurel and her family have been in the Valley since 1989,from Oceanside, drawn by the affordable real estate. Laureland her husband, Mark, opened the Glass Doctor in 2006.Laurel is currently going through the process to have theGlass Doctor recognized as a CA Woman-Owned Business.In 2013, the Glass Doctor expanded to a larger facility tobetter accommodate their clients and their nine employees.Laurel emphasized that she genuinely wants everyone to bethe very best they can be, and tries to give her employees thetools they need to do this.Nothing makes Laurel happier than when she is asked foradvice and she can help from her heart. “Encouragement canmake all the difference in the world to someone.” The GlassDoctor offers custom services for home, auto and business.“We fix your panes.”Contact Information:(951) 894-5710WEB: www.glassdoctor.com

May 2014THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALsuccessful women in business edition7Owner, Murrieta V.I.P. FloristAnnette LaRocqueAnnette LaRocque is the owner of Murrieta V.I.P. Floristwhich has been proudly serving the Murrieta area since January1991. At 17, Annette set out on a journey for a job; she walkedinto Lake Elsinore Florist and was hired. In 1991, Lake ElsinoreFlorist ventured into opening another location called Murrieta VIPFlorist, which she helped open. Now, Annette is the proud ownerof Murrieta VIP Florist in Lake Elsinore as well.Murrieta and Lake Elsinore V.I.P. Florist are proud members of the Murrieta Chamberof Commerce, Temecula Chamber of Commerce, The Professional Women’s Roundtableand Women’s Peer Connection. Annette is married to her husband Frank, mother toSteven and Rachel as well as a sister, niece, granddaughter and friend to many.Contact: (951) 698-4038WEB: www.murrietavipflorist.comwww.lakeelsinorevipflorist.comLDA, DIY DivorceKRISTIN HARRISONKristin Harrison has worked in Family Lawsince 2003. She opened her office in order to helpdivorcing couples avoid hiring attorneys and stayout of court. DIY Divorce provides mediation, factualinformation, and will handle every aspect of thedivorce paperwork. If you work with DIY Divorce, you won’t have todrive to Hemet to file the papers, and no one will see the inside of acourt room. “Save Money & Save Time. “Contact: (951) 795-3900WEB: www.thediydivorce.comOwner,Potamus PressTracey PapkeTracey Papke is utilizing her 20 years ofmanagement expertise to create marketingstrategies for her clients. Tracey has embracedthe world of printing by looking at her clients’ business messagesas her own.Over the last 6 years of ownership, she has enjoyed continuingto build on the stellar reputation that Potamus Press has had inthe business community during the past 18 years. She is currentlyworking on ways to keep print media relevant and to bridge theworld of digital marketing and social media with the traditional,yet tangible, world of printing. She strives to bring the power ofprint to all her clients!Tracey is passionate about giving back to this community thathas embraced her so readily. She currently serves as a memberof the Michelle’s Place Breast Cancer Resource Center AdvisoryBoard. She is a member of the Temecula, Murrieta and MenifeeChambers of Commerce. She is involved with and supports manycommunity activities and events.Contact Information:(951) 693-2136tpapke@potamuspress.comWEB: www.potamuspress.comHair StylistTara WunderlichIf you don’t love your hair, then you need to trysomething new. I provide up-to-date styles thatcompliment your individual coloring, face shapeand personality.I have lived locally for 25 years and havebeen in the hair industry for ten years. I specialize in color, haircuts,Hotheads extensions and Brazilian blowouts.I can provide you with anything from a simple single color, to multidimensionalweaves with 2, 3, or even 4 colors. I offer correctional andspecial effect coloring, while re-establishing and maintaining thehealth of your hair. I continue my education to keep myself and myclients updated on the newest trends.I appreciate the value of loving your job and I am privileged to beso fortunate to love what I do. I look forward to helping you love whatI do, too!Active member of:Murrieta Chamber of CommerceTemecula Valley Chamber of CommerceNew Generations Rotary ClubValley Young Professionals2 time recipient of ‘40 Under Forty’2013 Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Nominee for ‘Citizen of the Year’Contact Information:(951) 233-1002Owner,Murrieta Day Spa and Hair StudioMonique degrootMy name is Monique deGroot and I own andoperate the Murrieta Day Spa and Hair Studio thatfirst opened in 1989.Looking back from where we started andwhere we are now, I am so proud of the manyaccomplishments, renovations, and services we have provided overthe years. Having the spa has given me the opportunity to makemany long lasting friends, clients and staff members.Haircutting and styling has been my passion since I was a littlegirl. I continue to work in the salon at the day spa part-time. I feelfortunate to be able to come to work every day, having the chanceto make people look and feel beautiful and stylish.I moved here from Los Angeles to raise my children, and I loveliving, working, and being a part of this great community. One ofmy favorite ways to get involved is participating, volunteering, anddonating to local charities.Next time you are in the neighborhood, stop by and enjoy apoolside lunch and taste a glass of wine or champagne from one ofour local wineries. Our new additions include a bistro cafe, signaturecocktails, fire pit and outdoor bar.Let us teach you the art of relaxing. Hope to see you soon!Contact Information:(951) 677-8111Monique@mdayspa.comWEB SITE: www.mdayspa.comWomen in Business 2014

THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL8 successful women in business editionMay 2014Freelance JournalistMAGGIE AVANTSMaggie Avants is currently a freelance journalistwhose work appears not only in the Valley BusinessJournal but also on TemeculaGrapevine.com.She previously served as editor of local newswebsites Temecula and Murrieta Patch.com.The most rewarding part of her work, she says, isinforming and connecting the community on issues that matter. Shealso enjoys the storytelling aspect of journalism—sharing stories thatotherwise might not be told. Avants is also available for your socialmedia, editing or copywriting needs.Contact:EMAIL: maggie_avants@yahoo.comTemecula Insurance ServicesJami McNeesJami McNees is healing the world one healthinsurance policy at a time. She is Temecula InsuranceServices Broker/Agent specializing in Health, Lifeand Medicare Insurance. Jami is passionate aboutthe health of her community and was one of thefirst Agents in California to become certified to sellsubsidized health insurance policies through Covered CA. Committedto the growth of her peers, Jami is the Chairwoman for Women’s PeerConnection, a Professional Business Women’s Organization.Contact: (951) 265-2784WEB: www.theinsuranceladyspeaks.comwww.temeculainsuranceservices.comOwner, ProjectiWebJulie LazcanoUsing unique, targeted content, Apps growaudiences and drive socially-visible engagement.Users quickly learn about special deals through PushNotifications. Apps offer optimization of QR Codesand Social Media announcements. They offer GPSdirections, one touch features, and CRM Tools providea variety of functionalities.Successful businesses today rely on multiple marketing tools, but aSMART Mobile App is one of the most effective. Explore the potential ofSMART Mobile Apps at www.projectiweb.com for Androids and iPhones.Contact: (877) 469-2649WEB: www.ProjectiWeb.comDale Farrell-McKenzieDale is a professional in the commercial print salesand consulting industry specializing in newspapers,inserts, magazines, catalogs, brochures and maps.She has spent 25 years in the commercial printingindustry. Prior to this career, she spent 8 years withcommunity newspapers. Dale holds a degree incommunications and photography.“I have always had a strong interest in communication withincommunities and activities. Printed communication leads to knowledge,in knowledge there is strength which builds a solid foundation foreveryday life,” said Dale.Contact: (951) 639 3202 office • (619) 417 5499 cellWEB: dale.mckenzie09@yahoo.comLive Mobile SolutionsAdria PoindexterOwner,Tesoro Italian CuisineValerie DiBenedettoWomen in Business 2014Adria Poindexter is the owner of LiveMobile Solutions. Adria offers Live Scanfingerprinting, both out of her office inMurrieta (inside Coworking Connection) andon a mobile basis all over Southern California. Adria is also amobile Notary Public, and is available 24/7 for these services.Adria prides herself on long-standing relationshipswith many clients in both areas of her business, as she isdependable, thorough and consistent.Her favorite part of what she does? Meeting and gettingto know people from all walks of life through her services.“I’ve literally met people who have tugged at my heartstringsupon our first meeting [for Notarizations],” says Adria. “Thenthey continue to call me for things they need throughoutpersonal life circumstances, and they become friends.” LiveScan takes little time, but I still get the chance to learn andchat. I’ve met some pretty great people.”“I love it that I work in the community in which I live,” saysAdria. “Murrieta is an amazing place to call home.”Contact Information:(951) 265-1815WEB: www.livemobilesolutions.comEMAIL: AOPoindexter@gmail.comChef Valerie DiBenedetto, owner of TesoroItalian Cuisine in Wildomar, has been in love withcooking as far back as she can remember. Valeriespent many hours in the kitchen, watching herGrandmother create homemade pastas and desserts. She alwaysknew this would be her calling.Valerie moved to Florence, Italy in 2010 to finish her culinarystudies at the world renowned Apicius Culinary & HospitalitySchool. While attending school, Valerie trained with some of Italy’smost respected Executive Chefs. She also worked at one of theoldest, and considered the best, pasticceria in Florence. Valerieprides herself on using the freshest of ingredients, including herhomemade ravioli, sausage, gnocchi, breads and all desserts beingmade at her restaurant. She also strives to keep her dishes creativeand true to the Tuscan flavors.Tesoro Italian Cuisine was recently voted “Best New Restaurant”and “Best Italian Restaurant” by Inland Empire Magazine. Valerie willbe launching an all-natural food line in 2014, which will consist ofher famous lasagna, Tiramisu, sausages and several gelato flavors.Buon Appetito.Contact Information:(951) 609-1266WEB: www.tesoroitaliancuisine.com

May 2014THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALsuccessful women in business edition9Women of RotaryIn July of 1989, The RotaryClub of Temecula welcomed theirfirst female member, Dee Ivy,who quickly made her mark onthe club. Since then women havebeen very active in the leadershipwith a string of three presidents ina row being women. A significantnumber of board members andcommittee chair positions havealso been held by women.Needless to say, women havehad a significant impact on theclub and its direction. They bringtheir expertise as business owners,Entrepreneurs and CEO’s towhat had been an all men’s cluband quickly earned respect andrecognition for their efforts. Rotaryis a great “equalizer” in that theydon’t talk about their position inthe community or their businesses;wealth or social status has noplace in Rotary. If you are willingto use your knowledge and hardwork to make our community abetter place you are welcomed.While not all Rotary Clubs in everycountry have fully embracedfemale members, Rotarians in thiscountry are truly equal, not menor women; simply people who believein their motto of “Service AboveSelf”.When asked to undertake thedaunting task of fundraising thewomen of Rotary have excelled consistentlysetting records in terms ofdollars raised with the help of theirmale counterparts. Many of the clubs“avenues of service” are headed byfemale members and women haveearned trust and respect by achievingmeaningful results. They are certainlyknown as “women who get thejob done”.As of June 2011 there were nearly200,000 female members of Rotaryworldwide which represents about20% of total members. The Temecula“noon” club is made up of roughly40% women; men still dominate thenumbers but women have clearlydemonstrated competence in all areasof service.The Rotary Club of Temeculawas founded in 1975 and currentlyhas nearly 100 local business ownersand professionals that are committedto Service Above Self. To learn moreabout the many local, regional andinternational projects the Rotary Clubof Temecula is involved in please visitwww.temecularotary.net.Upper Cervical ChiropractorDr. Tina GottliebImagine relief … Imagine results …Imagine a new reality!Tina M. Gottlieb, D.C.• 18 Years in Practice• Featured Speaker, 2013 TVCC Women In Business Conference• Nominee, 2013 TVCC Sterling Business of the YearDr. Tina has been passionate about providing uppercervical chiropractic care to her community since this type ofchiropractic treatment ended her own debilitating migraines20 years ago. She loves helping generations of families getwell, and more importantly stay well, so they can focus onwhat’s important to them.As a wife, mother, and owner of a busy practice, Dr. Tinaalso makes time to be involved in the Temecula Noon Rotary,Women’s Peer Connection, and the Temecula Valley Chamberof Commerce. She also serves as a community health andwellness speaker.Contact Information:(951) 699-516127393 Ynez Road, Suite 162Temecula, CA 92591WEB SITE: www.drtinachiropractic.comLMFT, CEOOak Grove InstituteTammy WilsonOwner,Bella Capelli Salon & BoutiqueCAROLE SPEARSTammy Wilson, LMFT, is the CEO at Oak GroveCenter. She is responsible for leading operationsincluding program development, supervising themanagement team, providing leadership to 350staff members and the special needs youth Oak Grove serves: 76residents at the Murrieta campus, 90 Day students and 50 who attendOak Grove at the Ranch in Perris.Within the last year, Tammy has led major initiatives includingopening a new gym/multipurpose rooms, further renovatingOak Grove at the Ranch with their new Perris campus, increasingWraparound and Autism Services and adding THRIVE, an IndependentLiving Program for foster youth throughout Riverside County.Tammy serves on the board for Nonprofits’ Insurance Allianceof California and The California Alliance, the Murrieta Chamber ofCommerce and is a member of Temecula Rotary. She is passionateabout instilling a love of the arts in at-risk and special needs childrenand youth as well as infusing a deep belief that they are smarter,stronger and more capable than they think they are. She also enjoysworking with staff to realize their dream of seeing “kids get better”.Contact Information:(951) 677-5599tammyw@oakgrovecenter.orgWEB SITE: www. oakgrovecenter.orgTemecula resident since 1996 and ownerof Bella Capelli Salon & Boutique since 2006,I am dedicated to providing a professional,friendly environment for Temecula’s finestcosmetologists to welcome their clients, as they providequality hair care, nail services and facial treatments.Our team is comprised of 13 Hairstylists, 2 Nail Technicians,1 Esthetician, 2 Salon Coordinators and a Boutique Manager. InOctober 2012, I expanded the boutique to include an additional1100 square feet of specialty clothing lines, handbags, jewelry& accessories. I take pride in passing on savings to patrons byproviding high quality, boutique clothing at affordable pricing.I am a member of the Temecula Chamber of Commerceand I like to give back to my community by donating my time,services and or goods to local businesses and charities in need.When I am not enjoying my time at the Salon & Boutique, I liketo spend time with my family, camping and traveling in our RV.Contact Information:(951) 296-9466WEB SITE: www.bellacapellionline.comWomen in Business 2014

THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL10 successful women in business editionMay 2014Mobile Certified Loan Signing Agent,Wine Country NotaryYvonne A. RuizYvonne A. Ruiz is the Owner of Wine CountryNotary. After moving from South Texas, she has livedin the Temecula Valley for over 15 years where she isestablished with the local businesses and non-profitcommunities. A certified loan signing agent throughthe National Notary Association, she has been in the real estate industryfor over 15 years.Yvonne is professional, detail oriented and reliable. She does businesswith Real Estate Agents, Escrow Companies, Lenders, Mortgage Brokers,Banks, Attorneys, Financial Planners/Advisors, CPA’s and the general public.Being Bilingual has helped her assist the Spanish speaking communities.Previous to running her own business, she worked for 3 years parttime with the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce as a MembershipCoordinator. As her notary business became busier and she had a decisionto make, she remembered her mother telling her, “you never know what’sout there until you go for it.” Her husband, Adam, knew it was her time to beon her own and has been a wonderful supporter. Yvonne also enjoys beinga soccer and cheerleading mom for her 2 kids and spending time with familyand friends.Yvonne’s affiliations include: Ambassador for the Temecula ValleyChamber of Commerce, Valley Young Professional (VYP), Advisor for Women’sPEER Connection (WPC), Inland Valley Business Community Foundation(IVBCF), Partner with Southwest Riverside County Association of REALTORS®(SRCAR) and PTA Member.Owner, Kelly’s ToffeeKELLY PITTMANKelly Pittman is the owner of Kelly’s Toffee whichhas been proudly selling her delicious buttery toffeein Murrieta since 2009. She started her businesscooking in rented commercial kitchens but in 2013California passed the Cottage Kitchen Law allowingher to move her production into her home. Confidentthe law would pass she was well prepared becoming the first Class BCottage Kitchen in Murrieta. Kelly’s Toffee now retails in various locationsin Murrieta and Temecula. Kelly’s Toffee specializes in corporate gifts,weddings, party platters, and holiday gifts.Contact: (949) 500-2135WEB: www.kellystoffee.comMurrieta Chamber of CommerceRhonda Warner, Heather Estrada &Karen BrownContact Information:(951) 326-5617WEB SITE: www.winecountrynotary.comWomen in Business 2014Author & EntrepreneurHelen m. ryanI have lived in several different worlds, butprimarily focus now on writing and presenting,with the goal of helping people improve their lives.In 2012 I published the Amazon best seller “21 Days to ChangeYour Body (and Your Life).” It is based on my experience of losing 82pounds—changing my own life in the process—and shows peoplehow they can ‘have their cake and lose weight, too’. The goal is not tobe super skinny, but to be healthy, fit and happy.Having lived in the valley since 1993, I have met some trulyamazing women along the way (several of whom you see on thesepages). It’s been a fun journey, and one that has inspired me to followmy dream of creating a nonprofit. Reignite, Inc., a 501(c)(3), aims tohelp women gain skills to re-enter the workforce. If you would like tovolunteer, we’d love to have you.In my free time I teach Spinning® at NC3 Fitness in Murrieta,interview rock stars, and volunteer for S.A.F.E.re•invent | re•inspire | re•igniteContact Information:(951) 205-1420www.helenmryan.comwww.realworldweightloss.comwww.reigniteyourlight.orgThe Murrieta Chamber staff includes three driven women whoreach out to the community through Networking, Promotion andAdvocacy.The friendly face of the Chamber, Heather, is the social media guruwho makes everything so appealing! She wants everyone to know,“They are always available to help your business reach its goals”.Rhonda is celebrating her 10th Anniversary with the Chamber. Sherecently completed a 3 year Chamber Academy program. She believes,“The Chamber is a true, sincere place who cares about our members.We encourage everyone to have fun while promoting their business!”Karen encourages people to think outside the norm. She said,“Where else can you eat great food and be given the networking andmarketing opportunities that the Chamber provides weekly for all oftheir members?”These ladies believe in the philosophy of, “work hard, play hard”,because true growth starts in the relationships that build. OverallSuccess will follow!Contact Information:(951) 677-7916WEB SITE: www. murrietachamber.org25125 Madison Ave. Suite 108Murrieta, CA 92562The Valley Business Journal would like to congratulate all of the‘Successful Women in Business’ who are featured in this annualspecial edition. You are all wonderful role models for the youngergeneration starting their careers and an inspiration to us all.~Linda Wunderlich, Publisher

May 2014THE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNALsuccessful women in business edition11Successful Women in Law Enforcementby Maggie Avants, Staff WriterWomen comprise only 13percent of the local law enforcementin agencies across the nation,according to the U.S. Departmentof Justice.Closer to home, the RiversideCounty Sheriff’s Departmentcurrently employs 236 sworn females,while the total number ofsworn men is 1,855. The MurrietaPolice Department has sevensworn females who serve on aforce of more than 80 officers.We spoke with three localwomen in law enforcement whonever viewed those statistics as ahindrance. Instead, they continueto rise within the ranks of their respectivedepartments.Chief Deputy Shelley Kennedy-Smithis the first African-American woman in the RiversideCounty Sheriff’s Department toachieve the rank of chief deputy.The 53-year-old Murrieta residentcurrently oversees CentralField Operations for four patrolstations: Southwest in Temecula,Lake Elsinore, Hemet and Cabazon.She is also responsible forthe sheriff’s countywide emergencyresponse team.It was through a twist of fate27 years ago that Kennedy-Smithbecame a young deputy sheriff.She said as she was typing up aRiverside County Sheriff’s Departmentapplication as a favor for aneighbor, she realized she had allthe qualifications. So she decidedto apply.“I got hired and he didn’t,”Kennedy-Smith said. “He went onto become an nurse. I ran into himfive or six years ago; it was reallyfunny how it turned out.” Eventhough there have been countlesssacrifices along the way, shesays she wouldn’t trade it.Married for 32 years, Kennedy-Smithhas two sons and threegrandchildren. She thanked herhusband for keeping their boysinvolved in sports while as ayoung deputy she worked oddhours and many a holiday.To women thinking of pursuinga career in law enforcement,Kennedy-Smith said: “The sky isthe limit. On Aug. 25, 1986, whenI became a deputy sheriff, I wouldhave never imagined in my wildestdreams that I would have all the opportunitiesI have had. I have seenfirsthand the growth and transformationin women in high positionsin a predominately male field. Weare making our mark. I would tell anywoman to be strong and confidentand that if she believes in herself,others will.”Likewise, Lt. Julie Hoxmeierof the Murrieta Police Departmentsaid: “The gender thing never reallygot in the way for me.”Raised by a single mother, Hoxmeiersaid she had a strong independentfemale role model. Additionally,she was accustomed to thelaw enforcement lifestyle becauseher father-in-law had worked aschief of police in the town she andher childhood-friend-turned-husbandgrew up in.They got married after highschool, and her husband was hiredat the Riverside Police Departmentafter serving in the Marines. Oncedetermined to go to law school,Hoxmeier said she applied insteadfor the Riverside County Sheriff’sDepartment. “It was an obviouschoice for our family,” Hoxmeier said,because at the time—nearly twodecades ago—they had a youngdaughter.As a young deputy sheriff, Hoxmeierworked at Southwest DetentionCenter until she was hired atthe Fontana Police Department. Sheworked there for six years, mainly inthe investigations department and asa court liaison.In 2000, Hoxmeier went to workfor the Murrieta Police Department.She made the move because she livedin Murrieta, she said, where she hasrisen through the ranks and is currentlythe operations lieutenant. Her role isto oversee the patrol department. Itis career choice that Hoxmeier, now 47years old and a grandmother, has beenhappy with, especially when it comesto earning an income equal to her malecounterparts.“One of the things people talkabout is how women make less money,even President Obama recentlybrought that up,” Hoxmeier said.“Across the nation, it’s a third less. Wellin law enforcement, it’s based on yourrank, not on your gender. I love thatfairness…I think that should be a hugething women look for.”Another successful woman in lawenforcement, Chief Deputy PatriciaKnudson, looked back on what madeher decide to pursue the career path.Coming up on her 25th anniversarywith the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department,Knudson explained that shewas working as a paramedic in Hemetwhen she decided she needed a jobthat would offer longevity.“I reasoned that in police work,I would still be working in emergencyservices and generally outdoors,”Knudson said. “It was the closest fieldto what I was doing and offered thelongevity opportunities that Iwas seeking for the long term.”That led to working as a patroldeputy and on the CommunityAction Team—both very rewardingpositions, she said.“Now, so many years laterand as an executive, the reward“In law enforcement, (yourpay is) based on your rank,not on your gender. I lovethat fairness…I think thatshould be a huge thingwomen look for.”factor has shifted,” said Knudson,47, a Riverside resident. She currentlyoversees West Field PatrolOperations, which includes thestations of Jurupa Valley, MorenoValley and Perris, as well asthe Special Investigations (homicide,major narcotics, computercrimes) and Media Informationbureaus.“I now work very hard atmentoring our employees andcarefully consider decisionmakingissues to leave a positiveimpact on the departmentand community as a whole.” Sheadmits that the balance of a lawenforcement career with a personallife is always challenging.“For me, faith plays a huge role,followed very closely by the loveand support of my husband,who is also in the business,” saidKnudson, a stepmother andgrandmother.“As the first Latina chiefdeputy, it is rewarding toknow that I can be an examplefor other young ladies to followthe path. I try and impartto young people that if I cando this, so can you.”Women in Business 2014

successful women in business editionTHE VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL12 May 2014