General Information

In February 2010 Big Fogg was honored to win the Chamber of Commerce Company of the Year Award in Temecula. It was third time that Big Fogg had been nominated for this award. Also, in 2010 Big Fogg was nominated for the Business of the Year by the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce.

Since its inception in 1999, Big Fogg has continued to have steady growth even through difficult economic times. The Chamber of Commerce Award for Business of the year is the accumulation of many years of hard work and long hours.

Big Fogg roots in the Misting Industry starts back in 1993 when its President & CEO (Christopher Miehl) co-founded Cool Zone. In 1993, they placed the first Misting Fans on the sideline of Football Games, this had never been done before. The first football team that used the Misting fans was USC college football.

After a successful first season they were contacted by the Aloha Bowl in Hawaii to setup Misting Fans at the BYU vs Kansas State game. That’s when the Buffalo Bills noticed the new technology and commissioned the use of Misting Fans at the AFC Championship Game in Miami. The Bills were so impressed with theMisting Fans that they were commissioned to be used on both sidelines (Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys) at the last Super Bowl in Pasadena.

Afterwards, there were many accomplishments including providing Misting Inflatable’s at the 1994 US World Cup, 1999 Woodstock,1998 Los Angeles Marathon, 1997 Padres Games in Mexico and the 1996 Olympics for Coca-Cola throughout Atlanta and the Southwest US. Hard Structure and Inflatable Misting Systems were sold to Coca-Cola companies all around the world including every Six Flags in North America. In 1996 it received the World Trade Center New Company of the Year Award in San Diego

Cool Zone was financed through IPOs by two investment firms in New York. After securing an initial round of financing and a bridge loan the Company was unable to secure additional financing. It went bankrupt in 1999 and afterwards Big Fogg was started by one of its co-founders Christopher Miehl. Initially, working out of his one bedroom apartment in San Diego and San Clemente in 2000-2002, Big Fogg moved its headquarters to Temecula, CA in early 2003. Since then it has been the ultimate success story.

Big Fogg has been involved with every major sporting event in the Unites States over the last ten years. Big Fogg has set-up, maintained and taken down its Misting Fans andMisting Systems at most major Sporting Events including; Super Bowls, Pro Bowls, PGA, X-Games, National Hockey League, Marathons, Motor Sports, World Cup, Tour de France, Baseball All Star Games, Rugby Championships, and the NCAA Championship Games. One of Big Fogg’s major accomplishments was after 9/11 in 2001 being called into New York City to provide its Misting Fans to cool down the transformers as they had to be overloaded to bring electric back to Manhattan.

Big Fogg had technicians drive over from Florida and Ohio and picked up Misting Fans at Syracuse & Giant Stadium and delivered them to Ground Zero.

Below are the submittals to the two Chamber of Commerce’s for the 2010 Business of Year Awards:

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTIONS/AFFILIATIONS

1. Describe the contributions that your business has made to your respective industry in 2009. For example: industry organizations, societies, task force committees, trade publications, etc.:

*Please note that Big Fogg, Inc can be classified as 60-70% of the entire industry. Thus, in this niche-market, industry organizations, societies, task force committees, and trade publications do not exist. The following are accomplishments that are unique to the industry.

Big Fogg continues to be a leader in the misting industry due, in part, to its patented high pressure evaporative cooling “fog” machines that are designed to lower temperatures up to 30 degrees and comfort patrons without getting them wet. A new and aesthetically-pleasing patent-pending portable mister that provides mid and high pressure misting has been designed by the company as an attractive alternative for use in high-profile areas such as front patios and event centers and is due to hit the market before summer 2010. This concept, research, and manufacturing of the product are part of an on-going effort to meet the needs of a variety of clientele.

Odor reduction and dust suppression in rural and industrial areas is a growing concern because of the population increase and real estate bust in recent years, forcing families into more remote environments. Big Fogg is proud to market its technology as a solution. The company was recently contacted by Cal Bio Mass in Victorville, a compost center concerned about its methane pollutants and the associated smell. Misting systems are infused with a state-of-the-art odor removal product to achieve the best results for the plant and its surrounding areas.

Big Fogg’s commitment to providing the highest quality products for its clients led to talks this year with Sci-Corp Biologic, an odor reduction product company in Toronto that offers a “greener”- more environmentally sound- odor reduction product line for use in the aforementioned industrial applications. Due to the company’s increasing popularity as a “green” advocate, it was sought out this year by RJ Machinery in Marble Falls, TX to provide toxic dust suppression for its heavy metal extraction plant. Even though the firm follows strict standards for disposal of its leftover materials, the leadership’s concern for the health and safety of the neighboring communities prompted their call to Big Fogg.

When Big Fogg began, outdoor climate control was generally seen as a luxury expense. In recent years, due to the company’s persistent education efforts, testimonials, and referrals among sporting and entertainment event coordinators, misting and heating has become widely accepted as a “necessary element” in enhancing performance, reducing the risk of weather-related illness such as heat stroke, and increasing event attendance. With the health and safety of their staff, students, and residents in mind, this year Iowa State, Indio Senior Center, and Temecula Preparatory School installed misting systems throughout their common areas. In the same vein, Attraction Services, a special effects equipment company based in Los Angeles purchased high pressure evaporative cooling fans to create a fog machine’s effect for the camera, while providing comfort to the talent and production staff on-site during shoots.

Another “industry contribution” was achieved this summer when Big Fogg assisted national shampoo brand, Pert Plus, in constructing the world’s largest shower for the Guinness Book of World Records. With Big Fogg’s customized equipment, installation, and technical support, Pert Plus was successful in their attempt to claim records for the “World’s Largest Shower” and the “Most People Showering Simultaneously at a Single Venue”.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

LEGISLATIVE ACTION

2. How has your business been proactive in business activities, programs and legislation in Temecula for 2009?

Big Fogg’s leadership looks to the tri-city (TVCC, MCC, and LEVCC) Chamber’s Southwest Legislative Committee for input and advice in making informed decisions on ballot initiatives and other votes that affect business practices and the local economy.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

ECONOMIC VIABILTY

3. How do your business activities enhance the economic viability of the community?:

Big Fogg encourages its employees to patronize local Chamber member and Rotarian-owned businesses with whom president, Chris Miehl has built relationships throughout the past 6 years. The company utilizes local professionals for its promotional items, bookkeeping, HR, temporary staffing, and payroll needs- to name a few.

When press releases are distributed throughout the country and online by its PR firm, the Big Fogg name is always accompanied by “based in Temecula,CA” as a matter of company policy, in order to promote the Valley. The company’s growth and success is partially attributable to the nationwide exposure it has received with televised media coverage at football games. This has provided the Big Fogg brand with a large nationwide presence and recognition - more than any other company of comparable size.

Miehl deliberately chose to offer products and services whose need would continue to grow in the marketplace. There’s a global trend of temperatures becoming more extreme each year. Currently, Big Fogg pays sales tax to the City of Temecula for its approximately $2 million in annual revenue. Market projections show that number could grow to $10 million within the next five to seven years, mostly due to climate changes.

Big Fogg is known within the industry for being the NFL's choice for sideline misting and cooling and has supplied its cooling fans and heating benches for over one thousand NFL and NCAA football games, including the last six Super Bowl games and the last ten Pro Bowl games.

Valley-based business clients benefit from Miehl’s decision to maintain his base of operations in Temecula because of the elimination of shipping and transportation costs, making purchase and installation even more affordable. When operating from Orange County prior to 2003, he was bound by cost to provide far fewer equipment donations to charitable fundraising events. He is blessed to be able to offer local non-profit organizations much more equipment now.

Companies conducting business in the dry Temecula heat- including outdoor athletic teams, restaurants, resorts and community event planners, realize that not only does Big Fogg misting provide health and safety benefits by lowering extreme heat conditions to prevent heat exhaustion, dehydration and fatigue, but it also adds a comfort value. Bill Wilson of the Wilson Creek Winery attests, “Big Fogg Misting Systems keep our customers cool and that allows us to utilize our beautiful grounds and gazebos as unique and ideal settings for our customers to enjoy.” Wilson’s testimonial also attests to their economic viability, “Wilson Creek Winery wants to thank Big Fogg for assisting us in growing our business.”

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

4. Describe how your business promotes staff development. For example: education, seminars, training programs, leadership training, etc.:

Big Fogg truly cares about its team members. In order to assist the new employee transitions into the Big Fogg family, the company works with several local business consultants with experience in sales training, staff management, new business development, and executive level coaching. President Chris Miehl’s master’s degree in Corporate Finance and vast experience in sales, mergers and acquisitions, with Eli Lilly, Geneva Capital, and Amplicon Financial, helps the team enjoy record growth annually. Office processes are continually streamlined and updated, through specialized software systems training, affording the company greater time freedom for product development and marketing for the years ahead.

The unique positioning of the company as an industry leader necessitates self-teaching and innovation. Big Fogg trains distributors and affiliates nationwide on advances in misting and heating technology. However, this summer the firm added a new heating and air conditioning component to its offerings. Senior sales engineers attended Schaefer product line and technical training in Minnesota in order to be able to offer clients solutions for optimal air exchange in warehouses and other large commercial spaces using industrial and exhaust fans.

Big Fogg takes pride in being able to provide employment for workers across the country from its hub in Temecula. Most workers have remained with the company since its inception. This longevity is due, in part, to the fun nature of the work that they do. More importantly Miehl’s, commitment to a leadership-style that provides space for ingenuity and a sense of greater purpose through community service promotes employee loyalty. He continually educates himself through online courses and seminars like The Power Process™ to gain knowledge of the most effective leadership and organizational management strategies and fosters a healthy learning environment for research and development for his team of engineers. He truly has a passion for his work and the employees feed on that enthusiasm.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & INCENTIVES

5. What benefits or incentives does your business offer to your employees? For example: bonuses, discounts, time off, paid leave, employee recognition, etc.:

Employee incentives abound. In addition to annual two-week vacations, paid maternity and family leave, and at-cost employee discounts for goods purchased, sales bonuses and incentives (designed by a top analyst from the AT&T conglomerate) are part of motivating the team. The company supplies coffee breaks from Starbuck’s. Staff lunches from Lucille’s and the Yard House are commonplace. Tickets to football games, concerts, and street festivals for employees and family members are graciously given with respect to employee performance and/or simply, for a positive attitude throughout the workday.

The coveted technician positions at the Pro-Bowl in Hawaii and the Super Bowl are awarded alternately to staff according to seniority and exemplary work. This year, due to a last minute decision, two Big Fogg staffers drove 40 hours consecutively to deliver equipment to the Super Bowl. The lucky staffers got to stay for the game, of course, on the field sidelines, right next to the equipment, just three feet from the benches.

And, at the end of the summer season rush, before football season takes over, employees look forward to a company sponsored annual appreciation bash- an all-day party with food, games, and live entertainment for staff, their families, and friends.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

WORK SAFETY

6. Describe how your business has demonstrated commitment to workplace or product safety, equitable employer-employee relationships, and a clean and healthful environment?:

Big Fogg is primarily a (summer/football) seasonal business. The company employs 15-20 part-time independent contractors nationwide who keep coming back year after year. Fortunately, the rewards of the climate control industry include opportunities to see musical legends and sports heroes performing up close and personal, and monthly travel for senior engineers. Chris rewards loyalty and offers positions on events according to sales and technical support performance.

The original company warehouse in Temecula is an impressive showcase, well-organized and safe for employees and drop-in visitors. With an increase in sales, safety concerns were raised this year. To solve the problem, Big Fogg leased the adjacent business space, doubling the area in which product can be assembled and deliveries can be loaded, stored and shipped. While most businesses were contracting in this economy, Big Fogg was expanding with the hiring of 3 additional full-time technicians in order to more evenly distribute the workload and prevent injury due to over-exertion. In both facilities, custom build-outs make the manufacturing of the equipment easier and more efficient. The company also rents several local storage facilities in order to provide space necessary for its largest projects.

Big Fogg, Inc. upholds the highest standards of quality for its parts from top of the line GFI outlets and electrical lines to the most durable hosing available on the market. The company maintains that all equipment must be safe not only for shipping and handling, but also for the customers. Big Fogg thinks about the players as well, of course. They’re America’s national treasures and they’re safety is just as important as the employees installing and operating the equipment.

Big Fogg continues to update its employee manuals and brief staff on California workplace compliance issues. Through this, more open communication is created. With a greater understanding of the roles and responsibilities among leadership and team members, the company is set for substantially greater success in the coming years.

Big Fogg also provides traditional and alternative health care reimbursements for any work-related issues that may arise. For example, acupuncture and massage are provided on an on-going as-needed basis to technicians because of the intense physical requirements of the job. Big Fogg offers a fun, casual work environment designed to keep the staff alert and productive with lively music and eclectic décor that features banners, posters, concert tickets, letters of thanks, and event memorabilia.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

BUSINESS PRACTICES

7. In what way is your business a positive role model (Demonstrates strong business ethics & practices)?

Big Fogg sets goals and achieves them- no matter the odds: The company started ten years ago with an impending home eviction notice, an idea that “had to work”, and a high-profile, non-paying first client (USC). It has since grown into a flourishing company with clients across the globe. Known as an industry innovator, the company can build anything a commercial or residential client can imagine. The business is uniquely positioned to be able to accept a request and then plot out the design and specifications.

Big Fogg is reliable and focuses on customer satisfaction: When the team received a last minute request from long-time client, the Cleveland Browns, for equipment for a practice game this summer, they immediately went into action. The equipment was personally driven out to the client as shipping companies could not guarantee its on-time delivery.

Big Fogg anticipates change: In addition to expanding to a second warehouse in Temecula, Big Fogg opened satellite offices in Jacksonville, FL andAustin, TX in order to meet the increase in demand for product rentals and to be able to promise shorter delivery times at lower costs to the consumers. Miehl is researching the possibility of franchising and has recently signed his first distributorship agreement.

Big Fogg creates client loyalty: Chris has adopted the mindset, and thus indoctrinated the sales and technical teams in the philosophy that any new business transaction should be viewed as the beginning of a lifelong vendor relationship- meaning the company always upholds the highest ethical standards and maintains integrity in all its practices. This mindset is one of the main attributes to admire in a small business with its sight set on sustainable growth. Tim Davey, Assistant Director of Game Operations for the NFL is grateful to Big Fogg for just this reason, citing that he can always count on Chris and the Big Fogg staff to meet his expectations year after year during the Pro-Bowl in Hawaii.

Big Fogg is a small business with a self-sustaining global presence: Across the country, the company hires and keeps workers in their home states, even though its rental business is seasonal. This gives clients continuity and a sense of security that “temporary staff” cannot offer. This also gives workers a sense of ownership and encourages them to refer friends, family, and business colleagues. Using state-of-the-art online commerce software, marketing, and advertising techniques, Big Fogg enjoys an enormous reach on the internet, resulting in orders from coal mines in South Africa, US military bases onIraq and Cuba, and the construction industry in Dubai. Its national and international exposure during televised sporting events gives Big Fogg a presence that it could not possibly afford to accommodate in its marketing and advertising budget; essentially the company is paid for its own priceless branding. Any small business attempting to thrive at the “next level” can look to this company as an incredible example of ingenuity and perseverance.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

CIVIC DUTIES/COMMUNITY SERVICE

8. Please list any and all Temecula organizations/events you have contributed/volunteered with during 2009. (Please include Organization, Hours per month, any position held with the organization, monetary donations, In-Kind donations and contact information)

Big Fogg is always proud to volunteer to deliver, install, and staff climate control systems at any Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce event, including mixers, breakfasts, expos, and other outdoor community-oriented events which always increases attendance and leaves a lasting impression of enjoyment of the event, setting the stage for growth in the following years.

Chris Miehl, is frequently called upon to donate company equipment and technicians to assist charitable organizations in making their events comfortable and successful. In addition, Miehl is often able to donate unique and memorable silent and live auction items for fundraising efforts. This year, Miehl increased contributions to organizations addressing causes close to his heart. So he partnered with even more event production companies like, Golden Crown Productions, in order to offer support to their concerts’ beneficiaries.

Big Fogg donated misting equipment, delivery, and staffing for the entire Wiens Concert series to benefit The Temecula Valley Wine Growers Association, the Police Assistance League, S.A.F.E. Alternatives for victims of domestic violence, the Unforgettables Foundation that assists low-income families in giving the proper burial to their children, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Riverside County. The company offered the same to the Temecula Help Ride event at Quaid Harley Davidson to benefit COPS- Concerns of Police Survivors- an organization that assists the families of officers killed in the line of duty. Large misting fans were set up throughout Old Town during the Musician’s Workshop’s Temecula Valley Intl Jazz Festival in July for patrons and talent to enjoy during multiple stage performances. This year’s Rod Run also received a donation of misting equipment for their semi-annual car show to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs. And, when Project TOUCH, an organization focused on being a resource to the homeless in the Valley, called Chris to donate fan rental to their golf tourney at Pechanga, he followed suit.

The company has also donated personal misters, backyard misting equipment, equipment rentals, sports memorabilia- such as footballs, helmuts, programs, flyers, playbills, and posters to a variety of local opportunity drawings, silent and live auctions including the Boys and Girls Clubs during their largest annual fundraiser, “Our Kids Rock”. Active, in the Temecula Noon Rotary, Miehl donated his own USC game tickets to an impromptu live auction during one of his weekly Rotary International meetings. And, for the Temecula Valley Masters Chorale’s 9^th Annual Dinner and Auction, Big Fogg gave a patio misting system to help raise funds.

Each year, mostly for fun- truth be told- Big Fogg sets up misters in the VIP tent area and throughout the grounds and stage for the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival at no charge as well.

COMPANY NAME: BIG FOGG, INC

CATEGORY: BRONZE

CIVIC DUTIES/COMMUNITY SERVICE:

9. Please list any and all organizations/events OUTSIDE of Temecula that you have contributed/volunteered with during 2009. (Please include Organization, Hours per month, any position held with the organization, monetary donations, In-Kind donations and contact information)

In neighboring Murrieta: Big Fogg is an active member of the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce and is always available to deliver, install, and staff climate control systems at any Murrieta Chamber of Commerce event, including mixers, breakfasts, expos, and other outdoor community-oriented events which always increases attendance and leaves a lasting impression of enjoyment of the event, setting the stage for growth in the following years. For example, for the Old West Chili, Grub & Brew Roundup in Murrieta, Chris Miehl donated the use of its misting fans. (Event coordinator Carl Kravats said, “Big Fogg’s support truly was an important contribution in making our charitable event a success.”) And, Chris provides fans for the annual Murrieta Chamber installation gala which was held outdoors again this year.

Big Fogg supports each of the local high school’s sporting and fundraising events with financial contributions, as well as purchasing advertising in their publications. Miehl jumped at the chance to purchase a commemorative brick that will cement his commitment to bettering the lives of youth in the Valley; the brick will add to a new structure being built at Oak Grove Center for Education Treatment & the Arts. On a referral from a colleague in the business community, a Vista Murrieta High School social studies department project asked Chris to talk to teenagers for a half an hour about why they need to stay in school, and go on to college, in order to help themselves see their dreams come true. The students raved about the presentation and were inspired by the idea of establishing their own businesses designed around what they love to do. As a follow up, he has agreed to visit the school again in the spring.

In Southern California: During a military awareness day at the Lake Elsinore Storm Baseball Team’s diamond, Big Fogg supplied misting fans at no charge for the patrons to remain cool in the three digit summer heat. Again at Wiens Winery in Temecula, misting equipment rental and delivery was donated to the concert event that raised funds for California Family Life Centers’ Kids in Hemet, CA- an organization that rebuilds the lives of abused and abandoned children. For the 8^th year in a row, Big Fogg has provided misting stations for the patrons of the largest Greek Festival in the nation held inLos Angeles. The San Diego chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation asked again for Big Fogg to contribute misting fans to their family and volunteer appreciation event. And, Big Fogg donated San Diego Chargers, San Diego State and USC football game tickets for the ARTS silent auction (A Reason To Survive- a service organization that provides healing and inspirational art expression classes to underprivileged youth facing issues of abuse, eating disorders, homelessness, and chronic illness) at their 5^th Annual ARTSea Café Fundraiser at the Hilton Hotel in downtown San Diego.

West of the Mississippi: Also this summer, Big Fogg provided sideline misting fans and some of its technical staff for the 12^th Annual NJ-Northeast All-Star High School Football Classic as a favor to client, Rutgers University. And, the company donated the use of high-pressure Misting Fans to the King’s Academy in West Palm Beach, FL for an event to help raise funds for the Heath Evans Foundation – a charity dedicated to fostering hope and healing in the lives of children and families that have been affected by sexual abuse.

.......

Industry Contributions/Affiliations

1. Describe the contributions that your business has made to your respective industry in the year 2005. For example: industry, organizations, societies, task force committees, trade publications, etc:

Big Fogg makes many contributions to the industry through countless custom misting and heating solutions. The Press Enterprise published an article this year on the highly anticipated Golf Cart Misting Unit, which is sure to increase revenue for golf courses worldwide. Big Fogg recently completed a design for an aesthetically-pleasing portable misting unit that can be rolled out onto restaurant patios complete with a timing device that will prove to be both cost and energy efficient. And, Big Fogg’s equipment does its part in protecting the health of the athletes during hot & humid playing conditions down on the field. Many players will tell you that Big Fogg Climate Control Systems are a major reason they can still play the game to win during 110-degree temperatures in Arizona or Texas.

Also, this year, we designed a customized cooling solution for military-trained canines in the Gulf. Throughout the Iraqi conflict, we have filled numerous orders for personal misting fans from troops looking for a reprieve from 120 degree desert heat. Military personnel always receive a hearty, yet unexpected discount as a “thank you” for their efforts.

Our misting technology was utilized for many new industrial applications this year, as well. For the first time, Big Fogg’s industrial ingenuity was called upon to mitigate a toxic dust hazard occurring through the copper recovery process at an outdoor processing plant in Marble Falls, TX. Our company made it possible for the plant to operate within EPA standards by using a high-pressure misting system designed to pull toxins to the ground before they can evaporate into the environment. A soil treatment facility in Hawaii requested another first-time application: with our engineers’ expertise, we successfully aided the extraction of toxins from the ground at a site designated for the construction of a Lowe’s hardware store. And, a granite scrap yard in Ontario, CA employed Big Fogg to suppress the dust produced at their facility.

Legislative Action

2. How has your business been proactive in business activities, programs and legislation for Temecula in 2005?:

Big Fogg looks to The Southwest California Legislative Council (SWCLC), the regional business advocacy coalition of the Temecula Valley, Murrieta and Lake Elsinore Valley Chambers of Commerce and actively supports their positions on each initiative facing the Valley. I vote, sign petitions, and write letters of concern in accordance with the stance of the SWCLC which I have found to represent not only progress for business owners in the Valley, like myself, but truly promotes the good of the entire community.

Economic Viability

3. How do your business activities enhance the economic viability of the community?:

Big Fogg, Inc.’s growth and success has enabled it to expand and market its products throughout the nation. This success is partially attributable to the nationwide exposure it has received with televised media coverage at football games. This has provided the Big Fogg brand with a large nationwide presence and recognition - more than any other company of comparable size. Consequently, the Valley also benefits from these activities as interested parties soon discover that Big Fogg is located in Temecula. Requests for Big Fogg’s equipment pour in from all over the world, including the tourism industries in southern Greece and French St. Martin/Dutch St. Maarten in the Caribbean, the garment industry in Turkey, and even the diamond and coal mines in South Africa.

Patrons of events and retail businesses who experience the comfort of outdoor climate control always spend more time and money on site. Bill Wilson of the Wilson Creek Winery attests, “Big Fogg Misting Systems keep our customers cool and that allows us to utilize our beautiful grounds and gazebos as unique and ideal settings for our customers to enjoy.” Wilson provides a testimonial of Big Fogg’s enhancement of their economic viability on our website, “Wilson Creek Winery wants to thank Big Fogg for assisting us in growing our business.”

I specifically moved Big Fogg from our headquarters in Orange County to the Temecula Valley in order to provide products and services to commercial and residential customers without having to charge excessive travel fees, allowing the client to purchase more for their investment. Our misting systems at the Ponte Winery Smokehouse Café, Keyways Winery, and the South Coast Winery, the top-ranked in California, have contributed to the comfort and enjoyment of their respective patrons.

Our company is always on-call and proud to be able to volunteer to deliver, install, and staff climate control systems to any Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce event, including mixers, breakfasts, expos, and other outdoor community-oriented events which always increases attendance and a lasting impression of enjoyment.

In addition, I always use local vendors first for our company’s needs, from promotional items to office supplies.

Staff Development

4. How does your business foster a healthy work environment through staff development, employee incentives and training?:

We truly care about our team members. This year, 2 new employees, hand-picked expert technicians in the misting industry, were personally moved into the Temecula community in order to continue to grow the company. In order to assist the transition into the Big Fogg family, we worked with several local business consultants with experience in sales training, staff management, new business development, executive level coaching, and designing employee compensation/incentives. Due to our exponential growth during the past 2 years, office processes have been streamlined and updated, through specialized Microsoft Applications training, affording the company greater time freedom for product development and marketing for the years ahead.

Employee incentives abound. The company supplies coffee breaks from Starbuck’s. Staff lunches are commonplace. Tickets to football games, concerts, and street festivals for employees and family members are graciously given with respect to employee performance and/or simply, a positive attitude throughout the workday. The coveted technician positions at the Pro-Bowl in Hawaii and the Super Bowl is awarded alternately to staff according to seniority and exemplary work. And, employees look forward to an annual appreciation bash- an all-day party with food, games, and entertainment for staff, their families, and friends.

Big Fogg takes pride in being able to provide employment for workers across the country from its hub in Temecula; the company employs 20-25 part-time independent contractors nationwide. Most of these workers remain with our company for years. This longevity is due, in part, to the fun nature of the work that they do. More importantly, I believe that my commitment to a leadership-style that provides space for ingenuity and a sense of greater purpose through community service promotes employee loyalty. I continually educate myself on the most effective organizational management strategies and foster a healthy learning environment for research and development for my team of engineers. I have a passion for my work. My employees feed on that enthusiasm. And, these elements help make Big Fogg the company it is today.

Work Safety

5. Describe how your business has demonstrated commitment to workplace or product safety, equitable employer-employee relationships, and a clean and healthful environment:

The company warehouse I own in Temecula is an impressive showcase, well-organized and safe for employees and drop-in visitors. This year, we completed build-outs that make the manufacturing and assembly of our equipment even easier and more efficient. We also rent several storage facilities in order to provide the space necessary for large projects on-site at our warehouse. Big Fogg, Inc. upholds the highest standards of quality for its parts from top of the line GFI outlets and electrical lines to the most durable hosing available on the market. We maintain that all equipment must be safe not only for shipping and handling by the technicians, but also for the customers. (I think about the players as well. They’re national treasures. I can’t let anything happen to them out there.)

This year Big Fogg hired an expert in Human Resources to craft a new employee manual and update our employees on California workplace compliance issues. Through this, I believe we created more open commnunication and laid the groundwork for even greater success. With a greater understanding of our roles and a voice for all, we are set for substantially greater success in the coming years.

Big Fogg provides traditional and alternative health care. Several months ago, when a Senior Technician complained of back pain, I made sure to schedule and pay for his therapeutic massage and acupuncture to aid in the healing process and ease the strain on his body, in conjunction with the care of his physician.

Big Fogg offers a fun work environment accented by sports memorabilia of all kinds: hats from the Super Bowl and Pro Bowl, framed tickets and Big Fogg featured news articles, signed photographs, and stretched colorful NFL beach towels illuminate the décor with lively colors. Music is always played- an upbeat, eclectic mix of Bruce Springsteen, Seal, the Black- Eyed Peas, John Coltrane, and a little bit of every kind of artist in between- keeping us alert and productive. And, personal-style is encouraged to be casual and comfortable.

Business Practices

6. How is your business a positive role model (demonstrates strong business ethics and practices)?:

I always go into any new business transaction or vendor relationship with the mindset that I want Big Fogg, Inc. to be involved with that party for the next 20-30 years which fosters ethical business behavior. This mindset is one of the main attributes to admire in a small business with its sight on sustainable growth. Tim Davey, Assistant Director of Game Operations for the NFL is grateful to Big Fogg for just this reason:

Thanks again for your misting fans! I want to personally thank you for your help in making the 2004 Pro Bowl the best we have had in over 25 years. It comes down to relationships; we’ve gotten very friendly over the years. I rely on him (Chris).”

Another attribute of which Big Fogg is proud is its employment of people across the country from its hub in Temecula. Big Fogg has reaches an enormous prospective client base globally despite its size. Any small business looking to soar can look to us as an incredible example of initiative and perseverance.

Big Fogg started fifteen years ago with an ingenious idea, a high-profile non-paying client (USC Trojans Football), and an impending eviction notice. Big Fogg is the perfect role model for any inventor or dreamer. I always say, “yes!” first in business. I figure out the ‘how’ next.

Civic Duties and Community Services

7. Please list any and all Temecula organizations/events you have contributed/volunteered with during 2008. (Please include organization, hours per month, any position held, monetary donations, In-Kind donations and contact information.)

Big Fogg donated the use of misting fans, heating equipment, football tickets, sports memorabilia, and funds to the charitable organizations and events:

1. Big Fogg supports each of the local high school’s sporting and fundraising events with financial contributions, as well as purchasing advertising in their papers.

2. Boys and Girls Clubs- donation of misting systems, football tickets and memorabilia for silent auction ($1,000)

3. Wishes for Children Foundation- donation of a heating equipment onsite and misting equipment for prizes at Spring Event, misting fans throughout their golf tourney at Temecula Creek Inn, and attendance and financial support of nearly every event in 2008, including the purchase of their community cookbooks, and items auctioned at a recent fundraiser at Hooter’s ($7,000)

4. A Day of Wine and Chocolate for Hospice of the Valleys- donation of misting fans for the event ($1,500)

5. Pop Warner Football donation of cooling systems for sidelines during games ($500).

6. Balloon & Wine Festival donation of misting fans, trailers, tents, equipment throughout the grounds, VIP and winery booths ($6,000).

7. TVCC Tech Expo- misting equipment onsite ($500)

8. TVCC Installation Dinner Auction- Charger tickets donation ($400)

9. TVCC Mixers- at Trinity Reprographics and in the TVCC Courtyard ($500)

10. Frankie’s- misting equipment donated for Grand Opening shopping center-wide fashion show and fundraiser ($500)

11. Temecula Valley Intl Jazz Festival- monetary donation and misting fans and systems throughout Old Town ($2,000)

12. Arts Council of the Temecula Valley- donated funds for event at Old Town Theater and personally moved the organization’s office to its new location using Big Fogg staff and company truck- ($700)

13. Temecula Valley Film Festival- donation for Gala event at Pechanga ($200)

14. Temecula On Stage- green room food sponsor and courtyard misters for backstage area ($1,000)

15. King of the Barbecue- charity event hosted by San Diego National Bank- donated outdoor misting fans ($500)

16. Gospel Fest- donated misting equipment used throughout event ($1,000)

In addition, In addition, Big Fogg supports each of the local highschool’s (TVHS, Chapparal, and Great Oaks) sporting and fundraising events with financial contributions and buying advertising space. And, I am also an active member of the Temecula Noon Rotary.

Other Civic Duties and Community Services

8. Please list any and all organizations/events OUTSIDE of Temecula to which you have contributed or with which you have volunteered during 2008. (Please include organization, hours per month, any position held, monetary donations, In-Kind donations and contact information.)

Race for Humanity- donation of misting fans, entry into the event for foursome of runners ($500).
Murrieta Chamber Golf Tournament- donation of misting tents and trailer for the event ($1,500).
Make-A-Wish- event in San Diego donation of misting trailer for event ($1,500).
Ride-n-Share Horse Ranch in Shingle Springs, CA maintenance of donated equipment and installation of cooling system (worth $2,000 in 2007) for the animals ($200)
San Diego State University- (Chris Miehl’s alma mater) Athletic Program donation of all misting equipment, installation, and staffing for all their home games each year ($10,000)
Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Mixers- heating in February and misting in summer ($1,000)
Murrieta Chamber Installation- donation of misting fans throughout South Coast Winery, football tickets for auction, and purchase of a corporate table ($2100)
All Chamber Mixer- at Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium- donation of misting equipment and raffle prize for the event ($1,000)
Lake Elsinore Chamber Golf Tournament (Golf Course Grand Opening Event- donation of misting equipment throughout the course ($1,500)
Faith Evangelical Community Carnival in Menifee- donation of misting equipment and raffle prizes all day ($1,000)
Gospel Festival in Lake Elsinore- donation of misting equipment for event ($500)
Pop Warner Football Tournament in Port Orange, FL- city-sponsored event- donation of misting equipment to cool players and patrons ($1,000)
Cincinnati High School- football championship games- donation of heating benches throughout the tourney ($750)
College Football Game: Montana versus James Madison in Harrisburg, VA- donation of heating benches ($500)
Hope Festival in Atlanta- donation of misting equipment throughout fairgrounds ($2,000)
Paso Robles Wine and Music Festival- donation of 70% of the cost of misting systems, tents, trailers, and fans, throughout the festival ($7,000)

Big Fogg is also an active member of the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce.

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