Mark Martinez loves it when the eyes of business owners brighten with the realization that forecasting information can tell them so much about where their business is and where it can go.

Doing anything for 50 years is noteworthy.

MODESTO – A Modesto-based provider of tactical wear and equipment for emergency services workers is selling its products in yet another store.

5.11 Tactical products since mid-December have been available at a 5.11 Tactical Select Store at Blumenthal’s Uniform and Equipment at 3133 Arden Way in Sacramento, according to a statement about the opening.

Despite the economy’s ups and downs, local retailers are optimistic for the 2011 holiday shopping season.

Suzette and Ray Barnett had only a family recipe for garlic pickled peppers and a dream until they heard about Valley Business Start-up, the area’s newest resource for entrepreneurs.

The Lodi Chamber of Commerce is looking for sponsors for its annual dinner and awards celebration.

A store dedicated to offering billiards accessories at discount prices opened up in Tracy a little over 10 years ago.

The economic downturn has hit businesses throughout the Central Valley – the hair industry is no exception.

David Alejo, owner of Stockton’s Salon Da-V, is offsetting the effects of the recession by being innovative in how he caters to customers’ needs.

The countdown to the holiday shopping season is underway.  Black Friday is the kickoff and aimed at big box stores and national chains, but there is a movement  to make sure shoppers don’t forget smaller, local businesses.

The University of the Pacific’s Institute for Family Business is holding presentation on how to pass a family business onto the next generation.