Delta Explorer - Spring 2008 - (Page 48) Judy Partika Businesswoman Who Truly Makes a Difference in the Community Judy Partika, owner of Judy’s Clothing Company in Rio Vista, is a perfect example of an entrepreneur who has succeeded in Rio Vista. Originally from Canada, Judy has worked on and off in the retail industry since she was 16 years old. By the time she was 24 years old, she was the district manager of 14 stores in Alberta, Canada. Eventually she was in charge of the visual presentation of merchandise in 45 British Columbia stores. All of these wonderful experiences and more have helped to shape Judy and her retail business, which is thriving in Rio Vista. Judy and her family moved to Rio Vista in 1999, and in just three short years, Judy’s Clothing Company was born. At the time, Judy was a stay at home mom to twin daughters, Enid and Eliza. The business began modestly out of her garage, and it was from there that she sold t-shirts and sweatshirts. At her husband’s suggestion and encouragement, (mostly because he wanted the garage back) Judy in roduced herself to the community at the Bass Festival in 2001. Through this experience, she had a wonderful time speaking to and getting to know members of the community. Local businesses, like the Delta Pharmacy and Hap’s Bait began carrying her t-shirts and sweatshirts. Judy eventually moved into a storefront location on Front Street in 2002 and quickly outgrew the space. She moved into her current store near the corners of Front and Sacramento Streets. She has been in this location since 2003 and is very happy there. Judy carries Rio Vista High School logo merchandise as well as D.H. White Elementary School items. Judy donates a sizable amount of the proceeds generated by the sale of the school logo items to the schools. In fact, D.H. White School has received $1,700.00 from the sales of t-shirts and sweatshirts from Judy’s. The Rio Vista High School benefits from Judy’s generosity as well. They receive $5.00 for each sweatshirt sold and $2.00 for each t-shirt sold. Judy strongly believes in helping local communities in the Delta area. The school merchandise is just one example of how she does this. She also hosts or presents fashion shows, often at her own expense, to benefit local charities and groups. Just this past summer, Judy worked on a fashion show at Trilogy. She was able to help those involved raise $5,000 for Relay for Life, a 24hour walk, which benefits the American Judy’s Clothing Company BUSINESS PROFILE Jenny Emigh Judy’s Clothing Company supports so many of the local schools, charitable organizations and service clubs. If you haven’t been into Judy’s lately, stop by and see what a huge variety she has to offer. Shown above is Barbara Limbertos and Judy Partika and below left is Judy and Connie Portugal. Cancer Society. Judy believes in her community and is dedicated to helping those when she is able. Judy carries clothing and gifts for men, women and children. She tries to keep her prices reasonable for her customers. She always has a sweatshirt on special and tries to have promotions all the time to help her customers. She has a great variety of children’s clothing, which is mostly priced under $30.00. There is the popular “Rio Vista” wear with a Rio Vista logo on shirts and tshirts to “cruise wear” year round. Seasonal items can be found at the store as well. “We’re there for the ladies that don’t like to go to the shopping mall,” says Judy. “We’re interested in covering most age groups and sizes.” Judy and her two employees, Barbara Limbertos and Connie Portugal, are there to help customers when assistance is needed. “We are concentrating on good customer service,” Judy said. “This is exactly what you will find at Judy’s Clothing Company.” Barbara Limbertos, a long-time resident and very active parent volunteer, said she enjoys her job. “I like getting to know people in town, every- body’s welcoming,” she added. Connie is fluent in Spanish and is always willing to help you find the perfect gift. Judy’s is the perfect place to shop and support a local business that really does make an impact on our community! Judy’s Clothing Company is open Monday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and is located at 33 North Front Street in Rio Vista. For information call 707/374-7522. Jenny Emigh is a resident of Rio Vista and teaches first grade at D.H. White School. delta explorer / 48 Jenny Emigh Jenny Emigh
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