Formerly a San Antonio banker, she moved to Pleasanton so that her husband could livescloser to his work. Pleasanton’s friendly, small-town setting fulfilled her ideal for raising a family and getting involved.

When she discovered that a gift shop, located in a quaint, old building on North Main Street, was for sale, she pounced on it, viewing it as a valid business venture as well as a vehicle by which to become more involved in the community. As a business owner, she champions the downtown area-even adding the tagline “located in historic downtown Pleasanton” on all her advertising materials, and she looks forward to the day when downtown is bustling around the new community center and more businesses.

This businesswoman works each day to expand service in every phase of her life, from her customers at the shop to the people in her community. She exemplifies an attitude of kindheartedness and respect for all. And although these principles she has always followed, the current economic downturn lends them a new importance and priority in her life. She feels that it’s more important now than ever that her customers know how much their business is appreciated-regardless of how much they spend.

Community involvement is a natural extension of this woman’s service mindset outside her store. With a busy husband and two children (ages 3 and 1) her life is beyond full. Yet she prioritizes time for community involvement and service. Serving the board of CASA of South Texas, she is passionate in supporting the organization’s efforts to protect children.

Cindy also uses her store for community outreach by hosting special events or by contributing merchandise for charitable organizations, such as South Texas Regional Medical Center’s Healthy Woman.

The loyalty of her staff and local patrons truly demonstrates the camaraderie and fondness that has developed for the businesswoman. Many ask the question,” What is the heart of a successful business?” After meeting her and her counterparts, one can clearly see that for them, doing business with your heart is the only answer.