[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 157 (Wednesday, October 11, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1910]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         CENTRAL SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SALUTES TOP FIVE BUSINESSES

                                 ______


                       HON. GEORGE P. RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 11, 1995

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, there is a program which involves 
constituents in my district which is worthy of note. In its fourth 
year, the Top Five program has become established as a local award that 
truly recognizes the best of the best in central San Joaquin Valley 
business.
  The sponsors are: Baker, Peterson & Franklin, Certified Public 
Accountants; California State University Business Center; and the 
Fresno Business Journal.
  The purpose of the Top Five is to provide the opportunity for 
successful companies and business leaders to interact with each other, 
and to stimulate businesses to persist in their efforts to redefine and 
reshape relations with their employees, their customers, and their 
communities in ways that promote the welfare of all.
  The Business Journal goes on to state that the 1995 Top Five awards 
showcase outstanding private companies whose innovations and 
achievements have made a special contribution to the valley. This year, 
41 businesses were nominated from a broad coverage area of Fresno, 
Madera, Mariposa, Kings, and Tulare Counties, with a significant number 
of finalists hailing from the mountain communities. Types of businesses 
represented by applicants range from manufacturers to services, and 
business sizes range from a handful of employees to nearly 1,000.
  The five winners who were honored at a reception were selected by an 
independent panel of respected business and professional leaders. They 
are:
  Danish Creamery Association whose CEO is James A. Gomes. Danish 
Creamery is one of Fresno's oldest businesses and has received many 
medals attesting to the associations commitment and quality. It employs 
130 people.
  Heidi's 1-Hour Photo in Mariposa. The owner is Heidi Vetter. She 
employs 6 others who offer photo finishing. Heidi has also added a 
custom-framing shop which allows her to process film into a family 
treasure hanging on the wall.
  Inland Star Distributing Centers, Inc. Michael Kelton, who is 
president has a staff of 10. Inland Star began in 1981 as a local, 
single-site, public warehouse. It is now a national, five-site, full-
service distribution organization.
  Ruiz Food Products, owned by Fred Ruiz employs 775 people. Ruiz Foods 
is a multimillion-dollar business that was recently listed No. 26 among 
the top 500 Hispanic-owned businesses nationwide. It, today, is the 
largest burrito manufacturer in the United States.
  Sierra Press, Inc., in Mariposa employs 5 people. Jim Wilson is the 
CEO. The business was cofounded by Mr. Wilson and Jeff Nicholas. Sierra 
Press has built a devoted customer base through its unique approach to 
book publishing. They specialize in photographic scenes and memories of 
America's national parks.
  Once again, congratulations to all the companies who participated 
this year.

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