Proshop Automotive Holds 1st Birthday Bash in Colton

Approximately 300 people stopped by at Proshop Automotive in Colton last Sunday to help celebrate the first year celebration of their successful business launch. Owners Esteban Gonzalez and Karina Martinez welcomed customers, guests, family and friends to an open house style event featuring a DJ, food, and of course, a birthday cake. Wanting to show their appreciation for the patronage they’ve experienced during the first year in Colton, Gonzalez and Martinez decided to throw a birthday party with a twist. Although it was a celebration of Proshop Automotive's first birthday, it was also a chance for them to reach out to the community and gather donations for Colton’s Relay for Life foundation. “We have always wanted to be a viable part of the local community,” said Martinez. “It was important to us as we worked at opening this business at the very beginning, and we wanted to be a part of all that Colton is, in reaching out to each other; that ideal has always been first and foremost with us.” Looking around and realizing the support from the community, she added, “It took a lot of effort from a lot of people to make Proshop what it is today. During the two and a half year process of opening the shop, I don’t think I’ve ever imagined that I’d be celebrating our anniversary in the manner we did. I didn’t know what to expect, but to have our customers here today enjoying our first birthday cake is one of the best things I’ve ever seen." Sunday’s event was a good indication of how much their customers appreciate their honest and hard work for their vehicles as they came to help commemorate this benchmark in their business’ history. Juan Martinez, Karina’s father, said, “This is a good time for celebration. You can look around at the response today, seeing all the customers, all the friends they have made through this business, and know all that hard work is paying off. We all wish them the best now and forever, for life is all about enjoying the ride.” Business owner Gonzalez seemed overwhelmed and humbled at the response of the people around him. “I was able to accomplish the biggest goal (of opening this business) I’ve ever set for myself because I had so much support all around—from Karina, my friends and family, my customers and the entire City of Colton. I truly appreciate everyone who has made this year the best year of my life. When we decided to have an anniversary party to celebrate our first year, we wanted our customers to know that just as they have supported us and have been there for us, we are here for them and appreciate them, too. We value them not only as customers but as friends as well.”