Originally from Ontario , Canada , Jim Beatty heads one of the largest in­state semiconductor equipment businesses which he founded here in the Valley four years ago. Forever on the go, Beatty still makes a point to fit in time for The Wealthy 100.

"I've been to most of the meetings that they've had. I think the most enjoyable part of being part of the group is the fact that I'm exposed to other people who are interested in the same types of things that I'm interested in. People who are interested in being successful, people that make things happen and in most cases that started their own businesses and become successful at it. There's lots to talk about, lots to learn, and then on top of that Jeff arranges many meetings with interesting people. Steve Forbes was an interesting one. We've also done a wine-tasting thing where we were exposed to the actual owner of the winery who started it back in the '60s."

While Beatty has done business with a few of the group's members, he said that net working is only part of the appeal of the group for him. Social events that involve the entire family are just as much of a stand-out benefit.

"We had breakfast with Santa, our kids, my wife Stephanie and I, that was fun. But you know, if you asked me what I think are the benefits of the group, I think it's being associated or exposed to other people that are interested in being successful; and doing things regarding growing my personal wealth that seem to make sense, like investing money on a regular basis. Those are good habits to have. Those are things that I like and are important to me. Because if I didn’t have that structure, I wouldn't do it."