Women in Business 2015 by Manteca Bulletin

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 1

Women in Business

2015

August 26

Oakdale Leader • Escalon Times • Riverbank News

2 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Comforts Of Home

Oakdale’s Heath Continues ‘Baked Fresh Daily’ By T ERES A HA MM ON D

In the darkness of the early morning hours, as much of the Valley sleeps, Moss Rose Bakery owner MaryAnne Heath is already hours into her day. Just a handful of weeks away from the anniversary of her 35th year as owner of Oakdale’s most popular bakery, Heath admits to loving the business just as much today as she did when she first bought it. Heath first began at Moss Rose at the age of 14 while attending Oakdale High School. She worked the front

counter and quickly learned the trade from past owner Don Raduechel. She purchased the business from him on Oct. 1, 1980. “Back then women in business wasn’t like women in business now,” Heath said. “It was a man’s world. Women were partners with their husbands. Women were not even in the sales force.” Despite the lack of a female presence, the business owner shared there was little difficulty being a woman in a ‘man’s world.’

Moss Rose Bakery owner MaryAnne Heath hard at work in the kitchen of the Oakdale bakery prepping cakes for loyal customers.

HEATH, Page 3

Remember When Again at Nicole’s

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PHOTO BY TERESA HAMMOND

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 3

HEATH

Continued From Page 2

“I was very respected,” she said of local businessmen in her early days as an Oakdale business owner. “A lot of them mentored me. I think they just saw me as somebody who was trying to make something of themselves.” Heath did more than ‘make something’ of herself. She also modified the bakery early on, transitioning from a bakery only atmosphere to offering a lunch menu as well. “Growth is good,” she said of the business, as well as the town. “You have to have growth or HEATH, Page 5

LEFT PHOTO: MaryAnne Heath tests a cake in the brick oven of Moss Rose Bakery. All breads, pastries and baked goods are baked fresh daily in the brick oven. The oven has been in use as the primary baking source since it was built in the space in the early 1920s. RIGHT PHOTO: From sheet cakes to cookies, even cupcakes, there is very little in the way of baked goods not made at Moss Rose Bakery in Oakdale. All baked in the fire fueled brick oven, as seen behind bakery owner MaryAnne Heath. PHOTO BY TERESA HAMMOND

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4 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

ith 27 years in the industry Lucy brings experience, knowledge, professionalism, and service to you day in and day out. Besides being an agency owner with her husband she also brings corporate insurance company experience so she knows the business from all sides. As an Independent agent she represents a variety of carriers which allows her to look for the best product for your needs at the best price. Lucy knows your time is valuable so as a full service agency writing all lines of insurance she welcomes the opportunity to service ALL your insurance needs now and in the future. Contact her for a no obligation quote or come by their new office.

We are a Third Party Administration firm who specializes in consultation, design and administration of Employer-Sponsored 401(k), Profit Sharing, Defined Benefit and Cash Balance Plans. The owners, Terri Rodgers and Lisa Hawkins have over 40 years of combined experience assisting employers in meeting their financial goals by providing a competitive retirement benefit that also attracts and retains quality employees. Terri and Lisa enjoy custom designing qualified plans to help business owners maximize their own retirement benefits. If your business is a Sole-Proprietorship, Partnership, S-Corp or Corporation and you need a deduction on your taxes, EmployerSponsored plans are a great way to tax-shelter income. Foothill Pension Services, LLC provides individual attention and takes the time to understand their client’s needs and goals.

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 5

HEATH

Continued From Page 3

you’re going to die as a business. A whole new clientele came to town. I became more diversified. You have to grow with growth.” While the offerings may have expanded, the North Third Avenue location has remained the same. Heath expanded the lobby/eating area by utilizing the basement for storage. The dinein option is one of the things which both appeals and delights the business owner the most. “Most restaurants want people to come and go,” she

said. “I want them to stay and enjoy themselves. “There’s more about this than money. This is where people come to feel good. People come to release anxiety and enjoy family.” As evolution has occurred within the bakery walls in the way of space and menu offerings, much has remained the same, from the baked goods counters to the old time cash register. “My customers love it,” she said of the old wooden relic still used daily to cash out a sale. “It’s just part of what this bakery has been for years. People walk in and feel at home. “I think the one thing we

do best is the balance,” she continued. “Everything we do is fresh every single day. All our baked goods have to be made by 6 a.m. for our customers.” Of the number of changes Heath has made throughout her tenure as owner, there is one which was a marked ‘fail’ – an addition of menus versus the trademark large sheet of butcher paper with menu offerings listed in marker. “They liked the way it was,” she said of the informal menu. “That really threw them for a loop when we did that menu thing.” The business keeps the owner plenty busy, but it

is the things which people don’t see that keep her going. Heath is active in the local Catholic Church as well as a key contributor and donor for many non-profits in the way of food offerings. Heath shared that while her days do start earlier than most, she tries to sit by 5 o’clock each day. “It’s just life,” she said. “My life is busy, not just here but with other things. “Serving the people is definitely my favorite part of the business,” she continued. “I like food and I want people to enjoy it as much as I do. I just want people to be happy.”

From the top of your head to your toes, we can help you feel & look beautiful! Jeffery Sceville, D.D.S. Jodi Sceville, D.D.S. 209-847-8091 1390 West H Street, Suite D Oakdale, CA 95361

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6 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Susan Creedon, CPA Certified Public Accountants

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Susan Creedon, CPA, Kim Alton, CPA, Lisa Morris At Susan Creedon, CPA we recognize the importance of maintaining close personal relationships with our clients. We are pleased that so

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elcome to Country Kids! We offer a safe and fun learning environment for children ages 18 months - 12 years. Our programs include an academic PreKindergarten Class, Preschool and Preschool Junior Classes, as well as Before and After School care. We are open Monday - Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Country Kids began as a small, in-home program in 1992 and moved to its current center in 1996, as business continued to grow. Country Kids is owned and directed by Dawn Briggs, who has over 30 years of experience in preschool and child care. With her mother Charlene Hutson serving as assistant director, and her daughters Stephanie and Sarah Briggs working as teachers, Country Kids is proud to say we have three generations serving the families we provide educational and child care services for. We invite you to stop by for a tour of our center and learn about the fun opportunities available to your children.

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1301 Miller Ave., Escalon, CA 838-1600 countrykidsescalon.com CA License #: 393601774, 393601775

Funerals Cremations Advanced Planning

Ashley Vella Managing Partner FDR 3639

Being the new managing partner of Deegan Funeral Chapels, I, Ashley Vella, am honored to introduce myself and serve the families of this community. Deegan Chapels has two locations to serve families, one in Escalon and the other in Ripon. We are a full service funeral home offering unique and customized funeral services for burial and cremation. The families we serve are our top priority and we care for them as though they were our own. Each one of our staff is a licensed funeral director through the state of California that offers compassion and dedication to your loved ones service. I am truly thankful for the opportunity to help others during a time of grief and healing. Please call or stop by the chapel for more information about our services, which also include pre planning.

www.deeganfuneralchapels.com Deegan Funeral Chapel • 1441 San Joaquin St. • Escalon (FD932) • 209-838-7321 Deegan Ripon Memorial Chapel • 111 S. Palm Ave. • Ripon (FD987) • 209-599-3413

ennifer Smith never imagined that her husband’s hobby could have turned out quite like this. Since 2008, the shop has been supplying everything from personal protection to recreational shooting guns and gear. With many years of experience, Jennifer and Fred are able to outfit the first time shooter or the experienced warrior. Jennifer says, “We try to match the customer with what would work best for them and the situation. I like to help everyone, but women especially, because I understand what they need. I feel I can help bring a woman’s touch to the gun world.”

Basic Hand Gun 1 Class and CCW available several times a month.

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 7

Banker Enjoys Success With A Community Feel B y VI R GNI A S T ILL

Women have come a long way in the workforce and today enjoy a multitude of opportunities to choose from. For Oak Valley Community Bank (OVCB) Escalon Branch Manager Laura Weaver, the choice for a career in banking started right out of high school. As a bank teller for a small bank in the Bay area, Weaver took on more responsibilities than the average teller and was offered the assistant manager position. She was not ready to take on the position at that point, however, and headed to Arizona to continue higher education. “It was really a good feeling

knowing that the hard work I did put in, in that short period of time that even then they were looking at me for management,” said Weaver. “It was definitely a confidence booster so I kept thinking ‘I can do this’ (career in banking). “There are people that have faith in me.” After completing her education in Arizona, Weaver returned to the Central Valley and got back into banking where she experienced several positions ranging from teller, new accounts, assistant manager, manager, assistant customer service manager, customer service manager and OVCB, Page 8

helps individuals make better choices about healthy lifestyles, increase their ability to advocate for individual, family, and community needs, increase their knowledge of and utilization of available resources/services in the community, and improve their well-being.

CVCR delivers services at community-based sites in the following program areas:

Front Row Left to Right: Darlene Barber-Martinez, Diana Gonzalez, Virgen Pizarro Second Row Left to Right: Carmen Gabucan, Joan Brister-Giles, Arlene Figueroa-Morales, Miranada Morales-Gutierrez

CVCR delivers services at community-based sites in the following program areas: • Can Food Drives • Senior Brunch Fridays • Let's Move! through Healthy Eating Active Living • Holidays Giveaway for Residential Care Homes and Senior Meals on Wheels in Riverbank • Xmas Trees & Adopt a Family • Immigration Assistance, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Credit for the Elderly (TCE) • Toys for Tots in Riverbank • Implementing future transitional housing placement programs for at-risk youth through independence, education, and secure and positive living skills

3218 Santa Fe St., Ste B Riverbank, CA 95367 • 209-312-3957

Oak Valley Community Bank Branch Manager Laura Weaver is shown here at her desk where she conducts business at the Escalon branch. PHOTO BY VIRGINIA STILL

8 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

OVCB

Continued From Page 7

branch manager for a total of 15 years. She has worked with Oak Valley for just under 10 years and has been the Branch Manager at the Escalon branch for the past three years. Weaver also worked at the Oakdale branch, which is the bank headquarters, for three years. “We are really lucky here (Escalon/Oakdale area) to be honest,” said Weaver. “In such a small community and getting to know everybody and what their needs are or what they don’t need. The nice part is too that we are not a product pushing bank. OVCB, Page 10

The Escalon branch of Oak Valley Community Bank was named ‘Branch of the Year’ for 2014 and Branch Manager Laura Weaver said it was a team victory. PHOTO BY VIRGINIA STILL

WHERE DO YOU TURN TO FIND A GOOD REALTOR? Someone who enjoys helping people and is a good resource for this challenging real estate market. Someone who is a Certified Negotiations Expert and many years experience that can guide you through the maze and avoid the land mines. Someone who is honest and direct, and will treat you as a priority with quick follow up. You can turn to...

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 9 CEA-7501-A-A5

Joining with our friends and neighbors to

Women in Business Michele E Weber, AAMS® Financial Advisor .

202 East F Street Oakdale, CA 95361 209-848-4496 www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

River Oak Dental Spa Tourtlotte Dental Corp Christina Tourtlotte, DDS Andrea Pezoldt, DDS

1473 East G St., Ste. C Oakdale, CA 95361 • (209) 848-8074

E FRitE in n e g Wh

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River Oak Dental Spa is the dental practice of Dr. Christina Tourtlotte who has been operating her family dental practice in Oakdale since 1994. The office is equipped with state of the art technology for the dental practice and several features to present a relaxing, pleasant and spa like atmosphere for the patient. The dental office has chairs which give the patient a gentle massage, digital radiograph x-rays, in chair patient entertainment systems, and the ability to use nitrous oxide to ease patient anxiety. The office décor includes running water fountains to enhance the soothing atmosphere. Some spa treatments are available on a periodic basis. In February 2013, the office introduced our patients to Back Row: L-R: Jenna Bonnici, Front Office Coordinator, Debbie Acamo, the newest state of the art technology, the CEREC. The CEREC is a sophisticated CAD/CAM System Front Office Coordinator, Andrea Pezoldt, DDS, Christina Tourtlotte, DDS, for the production of all ceramic inlays, onlays, partial crowns, veneers, and crowns for anterior and Vita Lara, Office Manager, Ashley Ortega, RDA posterior teeth. Front Row: L-R: Deanna Acamo, Front Office Coordinator, Tiffany Tobias, Dr. Christina Tourtlotte is an Oakdale native and the 1989 Oakdale Rodeo Queen. She received Hygienist, Korie Whorton, Hygienist, Melissa Mora, RDA her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry where she graduated with honors in 1992. Dr. Andrea Pezoldt joined our office in January 2009. Andrea graduated from University of the Pacific Dental School, and has been practicing for 18 years. River Oak Dental Spa is welcoming new patients and featuring laser whitening and office bleaching. Free Whitening for life! Call for details. We thank our patients for their business and we appreciate your referrals.

10 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

OVCB

Continued From Page 8

“It’s one of those things that we are not going to sell you a product just to sell you a product; it has got to be beneficial to you. If it is not beneficial to our customers it is not going to be beneficial to us.” Being a branch manager at OVCB means getting involved with the community, overseeing the new accounts and tellers, attending meetings, visiting customers, obtaining new business, and making sure the Escalon branch runs like a “well-oiled machine” so that customers are taken care of. With the experience of so many different positions in the banking industry, Weaver believes that it helps with the

success of the bank and with her team. “They bring their good qualities and I let them know how valuable they are and how appreciative I am,” expressed Weaver of her team members. She manages five people at the Escalon branch and said they all work well together. “It is a team effort,” stated Weaver. “It makes it work really smooth. Julia (Robertson) honestly takes care of a lot, our customer service manager; she takes care of all the girls, the new accounts, the tellers, and makes sure this branch is running very smooth.” In February, OVCB headquarters hosted an Achievement Award Ceremony to kick off the new year and to show-

INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

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1718 Main St., Escalon, Ca.

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•

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• Lic#0 H9 1 2 0 9

case different people as well as the different departments for their contributions to the success of the company. The Escalon Branch received the Branch of the Year award for 2014. “I think that what makes us (OVCB) different as well is that we have our executives, we have the bank president and the CFO and these guys that are just so caring and when they show they care about their employees, I think that’s what makes employees do a little bit more,” stated Weaver. “So that was really good; that helped with the morale. I think it is nice that we are holding that award.” She said the recognition is especially significant because of

where they are in the scheme of the banking institution. “Escalon is the smallest community that our branches have helped so to see how well we are doing is a good feeling,” Weaver noted. “I have to give a lot of the credit to the rest of the girls, to the team.” The bank staff is involved with the community and participates in Christmas on Main, the Easter Egg Hunt, and other community events. Weaver is the treasurer for the Escalon Kiwanis Club, board member of the Haven of Peace in French Camp, board member of the Manteca, Lathrop, Escalon and Ripon United Way Community Council and a member of St. Joseph’s FinanOVCB, Page 13

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 11

Safety Takes Top Priority At Precision Driving School By M A R G JA CK SON

Family-oriented and women-powered, Precision Driving School in Riverbank is doing its part to make the Central Valley highways safer, by making sure to turn out careful, conscientious drivers. Former employee turned owner Karilynn Dowdy has owned the business in a suite at 3343 Santa Fe St., Riverbank, a little less than a year but had worked for the previous owner in the past and decided to jump back into the work world as a business owner. Precision has been established in the valley for well

Precision Driving School owner Karilynn Dowdy also offers driver education classes at her Riverbank location, in addition to the behindthe-wheel training. PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON

DRIVING, Page 12

With 21 years of experience Owner and hair stylist Kelly Ashby has relocated to Oakdale. Her salon specializes in hair color and lighteners with Ammonia free products.

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12 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

DRIVING

Continued From Page 11

over a decade. “All my employees are moms that were looking for part-time income,” Dowdy explained. “I was looking for the same thing.” She has her driving instructor license and took over the Riverbank branch last November. “We have clients from 15- to 80-years-old,” Dowdy said, noting that they get teens prepared for the driving permit test, do behind-the-wheel sessions, offer driver education classes for all ages, including a senior driver refresher course, and more. The driver’s education class-

es, required before teens can take their permit test, are offered over two consecutive weekends, the next session coming up Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 12 and 13, 19 and 20. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the cost is $75 for all four classes. October dates are set for Oct. 3 and 4, 10 and 11. Dowdy has over 2000 hours of training to her credit and said the work is extremely fulfilling, both in terms of teaching people how to drive and knowing she is providing employment. “Most of our clients are from Riverbank-Oakdale-Escalon,” she said. “I have five instructors, including myself, that work here.” Office manager Tiffani Pen-

A million thanks to my amazing clients, family and friends for their support, as well as the dedicated realtors I’ve had the pleasure of working with! Karen Postma Serpa, Realtor DRE #01217952

(209) 605-2010 kserpa@pmz.com, PMZ 190 S. Maag Avenue, Ste. A • Oakdale

Among the ladies ready to greet you with a smile at Precision Driving School in Riverbank are office manager Tiffani Penrod, seated; office assistant Valeria Duarte, back left, and owner Karilynn Dowdy. PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON

rod is currently an instructorin-training, working on her required hours. Dowdy is a driving instructor, as are Tammera Garza, Devan Merrill and Nicole Swicegood. Modesto Junior College student Valeria Duarte, a Riverbank High graduate, works part-time in the office as an assistant. Instructors must complete 60 hours of driver’s ed training, 60 hours of behind the wheel training, pass a background check, a drug screening and a

DMV check. For Dowdy, who has five children and four grandchildren, teaching people to drive is something that she said comes naturally, almost a ‘mothering-type instinct’ when it comes to the instructor role. “I love it, it’s incredibly rewarding,” Dowdy said. “I love to see someone who has never backed out of a driveway before and then you take them DRIVING, Page 13

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 13

DRIVING

Continued From Page 12

to downtown Modesto, to see that face, especially when they parallel park or get on the freeway.” Drivers with permits must take three two-hour driving classes before they can take their driver’s license test and Dowdy said it’s best for the student to have a different instructor for each session. “Everyone has their strengths and different ways of teaching,” she said, noting that students can learn something valuable from each instructor. Students also use the cars they take the lessons in to take their driving test, Dowdy added. Precision Driving School also offers discounts for police officers, teachers and public safety personnel, said Dowdy, as well as a sibling discount. She also has a ‘pay it forward’ program where young students can receive $5 off their cost every time they refer a friend to the school. “I know being in business, you’re supposed to make money but for me, there’s more important things in life than that,” Dowdy said. The business motto for the firm, in fact, could be ‘We’re not in business to make money; we’re in business to make safe drivers.’ There are plenty of packages to choose from, which include behind the wheel sessions, online or classroom driver’s ed, and different prices de-

pending on age. And while Dowdy has taught all ages, she said it is the teens eager to start their driving careers that provide the most joy. “It’s watching that child go from a shy 15-year-old, just barely independent, to driving themselves, taking that step into adulthood,” she said. She has had some memorable experiences, including a 24-year-old learning to drive who confused the brake with the accelerator while exiting a freeway. “I had a brake on my side, but we still went up on the median,” Dowdy recalled. The other was an older woman who did not want to learn how to drive but her son insisted. “She slammed on the brakes in the middle of a Claribel Road intersection and said ‘I don’t want to do this’,” said Dowdy. “That was definitely the scariest.” Penrod added that young students are the most eager to learn and are open to all the information they can take in. Instructors are available for driving lessons from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m., seven days a week, said Dowdy, with the multiple instructors able to work a variety of shifts and help meet the needs of students with busy lives. Office hours at the Santa Fe Street location are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 209-863-8888 or go online to www.DriveWithPrecision.com.

OCVB

Continued From Page 10

cial Council in Modesto. With the support of her husband and a great bank team, Weaver is able to manage the bank, participate in clubs and spend time with their three daughters. Oak Valley opened in 1991 in Oakdale and has grown ever since with branches in Tracy, Ripon, Stockton, Sonora, Turlock, Patterson, Manteca, three Modesto locations, and a second Sonora location opening soon. They have three divisions, Bishop, Bridgeport, and Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierras. “It is still really young for a bank but you know hav-

ing the right people in place knowing their community and what works for them in (specific) areas has helped the bank succeed,” added Weaver. “There was a slump there in the economy and we all had to kind of buckle down and bear with it and we were able to survive and then we opened two more branches.” With a love for the small town community that Escalon is and a love for what she does, Weaver expressed that being happy no matter what career you choose is the most important thing. “We only have one life, it is a precious one, be happy,” said Weaver.

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14 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Academy Mortgage’s Allison Carroll Serves As Client Guide, Coach By RI CH ARD PALOM A

After a few years in the education field instructing at Stanislaus State and Modesto Junior College, Allison Carroll, now a top producer at Oakdale’s Academy Mortgage, started to question her career path and if there was something more she would enjoy rather than teaching. “I always said I’d never do it,” Carroll said, growing up with her father in the finance field, “but I talked to my dad and really discovered my interests were more aligned with business.” In 2006 she started a new career direction, learning the intricacies of business loans, processing, and quality control at her father’s CARROLL, Page 15

Allison Carroll of Oakdale’s Academy Mortgage specializes in Conventional, FHA, and VA purchases and refinances of primary residences, second homes, and investment property in Oakdale and surrounding areas. PHOTO BY RICHARD PALOMA

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 15

CARROLL

Continued From Page 14

company, Carrollton Mortgage Co. “I started at the bottom and learned the backside of the business,” Carroll said. In 2011, at the encouraging of friends, Carroll started with Academy Mortgage and now specializes in Conventional, FHA, and VA purchases and refinances of primary residences, second homes, and investment property in the Modesto, Oakdale and surrounding areas. “Leaving my dad’s company was the hardest thing I ever did, but it’s also one of the best decisions I ever made for my future,” Carroll said.

“My dad and I are very much alike and I have nothing but respect for him, but I reached the point that I needed to go out on my own.” Carroll said she’s impressed with the speed and control of Academy Mortgage in their lending process. As a loan officer, Carroll takes loan applications, analyzes loans and makes sure they meet program guidelines. She monitors the progress and coaches her clients through the financing process to make sure they understand loan terms. “It can be a scary process,” Carroll said. “People don’t go through this every day. It can be a different world and different language.” Carroll said the difference

between a direct lender and a broker was the degree of people involved in the lending decision making. “The process, underwriting, funding and closing is very local and I have direct access to all that,” Carroll said. “As a loan officer I’m a life-long resource for clients as they face challenges and have to make financial decisions.” One of the enjoyments of her job is getting first-time buyers into homes. “They’re so excited,” Carroll said. “It’s a lot of fun helping them and seeing them getting into their homes.” Challenges, according to Carroll, are that sometimes she has to deliver bad news to potential buyers not getting approval, but she works with

them if there is a possibility to become homeowners. “I do think that if people work hard, they should have the right to purchase a home, and I really think that it’s the only way that most of us will ever gain wealth and a sense of stability,” Carroll said. “There’s something comforting about knowing what your payment will always be and that you won’t have to move at the whim of a landlord. It also serves as a safety net in a normal market – if something goes wrong, you have a very tangible asset that can help you in many ways.” In 2013, Academy Mortgage opened its Oakdale office and Carroll, an Oakdale resident, was elated to work out of the Oakdale branch.

16 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

‘Q&A’ With Lana Clayton

Working To Meet All Your Insurance Needs By D ENNI S D. C RUZ

Farmers Insurance Financial Serves Agent Lana A. Clayton is a veteran of the industry and a local favorite in the community. Clayton is a long time resident of Riverbank and has been servicing the “City of Action” for almost two decades. As part of this year’s Women in Business publication, we decided to reach out to the local agent for a Question and Answer segment. Question: What does it take to become an insurance and financial services agent? Answer: As far as educational aspects it takes four different California State Licenses to become

a Farmers Insurance Agent and Financial Service Rep. That’s the easy part. Tenacity, moxie, selfdiscipline as well as working ten hour days in the first two years is the hard work. Being referable is crucial. Q: What are your daily duties/ routine? A: Our Agency is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our daily routine is to give the most amazing customer service possible all day long. Exceptional customer service has blessed me with retention percentages that exceed State levels. I am so proud of my staff. CLAYTON, Page 19

Oakdale Dental Care

190 South Oak Ave. Bldg. 1 Ste.1 • Sirina S. Aguilar, D.D.S. Dr. Aguilar offers dental services to the community of Oakdale and surrounding areas. She is a native of Stanislaus County and resides in Oakdale. Dr. Aguilar earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry at California State University Stanislaus and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from University of California, San Francisco. She enjoys volunteering at Head Start programs, local elementary schools and Dentivan, providing yearly screenings and dental treatment to the uninsured.

Lana Clayton credits her co-workers for her success at Farmers Insurance. Shown, from left: Joanna Pacheco, Sonya Hernandez, Clayton, Danielle Chandler and Mayra Alvarado. Not pictured is the newest team member, Sharron Marshall. PHOTO BY DENNIS D. CRUZ

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF OAKDALE Celebrating 61 years of service to our community!

Please join us for our upcoming events: Holiday Craft and Goodie Auction - December 2, 2015 Distinguished Young Women of Oakdale - February 13, 2016 Motor Madness - March 26, 2016 For information regarding membership in Soroptimist International of Oakdale check our web site www.oakdalesoroptimist.org or email us at sioakdale@soroptimist.net

Dr. Aguilar and her friendly staff are dedicated to providing superior family dental care. Through our services such as implants, dentures, crowns, root canals, Invisalign (clear braces), and cosmetic dentistry, we can help you feel and look your best. Our goal is to help you achieve long term dental health. Call today, and begin your journey to a better version of your dental health.

New Patient Special: Complete exam & x-ray only $100. Call today and have an opportunity to enter our raffle. “We always welcome new patients and look forward to a long and healthy partnership with you, your family, and friends.”

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00-5:00 • 847-1320

Photo Taken at Motor Madness Event

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 17

Pic N Lilies Floral Arrangements • Gourmet Baskets

Owner Karen Smith Young has opened her new floral business Pic N Lilies in Oakdale. She previously owned Bloomers.

Her love of flowers began at age 6 admiring her grandmother's roses and acquired her green thumb and artistic talent. Karen has also passed that talent down to her children and grandchildren that share a love of horticulture too. Karen has designed in LA, Huntington Beach, Oregon, Washington and Germany. Karen designs beautiful floral arrangements as well as customized unique gift baskets choosing from: scented candles, lotions and soaps, gourmet food and even hand made knit blankets. “ To love what I do is important, but to make people happy is what it is all about ”

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Hours: Tues-Fri 9:30am - 6:00pm • Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm

Oak Valley COmmunity Bank Women in Business

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Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

Jan Noble, HHScEd, is the Founder/Director for Oakdale’s only post-secondary school - the Holistic Life Institute, School of Massage and Natural Health. Now in its 18th year, HLI offers a CA BPPE-Approved 500-hour Certified Massage Therapy program and a 500-hour Holistic Health Practitioner program. With a staff of 12 instructors, HLI trains 60-plus CMT and HHP graduates per year, some of whom continue on to become instructors themselves. HLI also provides a 13-office wellness center and spa for graduates to launch their new careers. In addition to directing the institute, Jan has authored “FigureShaping - The Completely Natural Weight-loss Protocol” and “Home with God - The Restoration of Your Spiritual Self”, both available at amazon.com.

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18 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

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That’s why she listens, truly listens, to your goals and immediately develops an open line of communication that continues throughout your relationship. She then prepares an insurance plan tailored to your unique goals and enacts it with energy and a positive attitude. To learn more about the Eaton Agency’s insurance and financial coaching services, call them today for a complimentary copy of “How to Select a Personal Insurance Agent and Why Having One is Important to Your Future.” You’ll find it a pleasure to talk with an insurance agent who sees things from your point of view.

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Diane Rovedatti & Sonia Casares

We specialize in 401(k) plans including Roth 401K, Safe Harbor 401k, New Comparability Plans, Defined Benefit Pension Plan. We are dedicated to helping our clients meet their retirement goals by giving them top-notch service. Owners Sonia and Diane look forward to providing employers with a specialized plan designed to meet the needs of each company.

www.valleypension.com 301 Banner Court Suite 3, Modesto • 209-572-7410

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 19

CLAYTON

Continued From Page 16

Q: How long have you been in the industry? A: I have been in the Insurance industry for 18 years in which 16 of those years have been with Farmers Insurance and Financial Services. Q: Did you start out at Farmers? If so, was it always with Riverbank? If not, where else have you worked? A: I started out working at a brokerage agency and learned the ropes. I decided to open my own agency two years later so I could advance my career. I have lived and worked in Riverbank for the last 16 years. Q: What is the biggest challenge in the industry? A: The biggest challenge in the industry is not taking it person-

ally when business doesn’t go my way. I care so much so at times I tend to wear my feelings on my sleeve. Q: What is the most rewarding part of servicing Riverbank? A: The most rewarding part of servicing Riverbank is the people. The small town mentality is exactly what I love. Q: What advice would you give to women who aspire to become an insurance and financial service agent? A: The advice I would give women who aspire to become an Insurance and Financial Service Agent would be “You can do anything your heart desires. With that desire you must have discipline to push through all the obstacles that come with starting your career.” Q: What makes Farmers Insur-

Lana Clayton of Farmers Insurance in downtown Riverbank, has had an illustrious career that has spanned nearly two decades. Shown is Clayton next to her shelf full of awards and accolades that she has acquired during her insurance industry career. PHOTO BY DENNIS D. CRUZ

CLAYTON, Page 20

Introducing the professional women of…

C.T. Brayton and Sons, Inc. is a General Engineering and Building Contractor, established in 1946, incorporated in 1969. We specialize in Educational, Medical, Industrial facilities and General Engineering & Building Contractor Parking Structures. C.T. Brayton & Sons, Inc., Top row: Kaylan Aufdermaur, Project has a great team and Engineer; Pam Galbreath, Project Coordinator; Betty Nelson, Jr. Staff Accountant; their present staff is Bonnie O. Connor, Sr. Accountant; recognized and thanked Heather Whitmer, Staff Accountant. current President, Bottom row: Deanna Shirlock, Project by Manager; Vicky Siegfried, Controller; Robert Brayton. Stacy Granberg, Safety Manager.

1804 Jackson Avenue, Escalon License • (209) 838-7388 • www.ctbrayton.com No. 257952

20 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

CLAYTON

Continued From Page 19

ance stand out from other insurance companies in the area? A: Farmers Insurance stands out more than most people understand until they look into our competition. Our Financial Services allows us to use many Mutual Fund companies whereas our competition is stuck with proprietary funds. As far as Home, Auto, Business and Life Insurance, we have excellent rates when we bundle. Our claims department is superior. As far as a career with Farmers, our company allows my next of kin to take over my agency if something were to happen to me. Q: What is your favorite thing about working in Riverbank? A: My favorite thing about

Hard at work, Lana Clayton strives to provide outstanding customer service and assists her clients in getting the best value possible. PHOTO BY DENNIS D. CRUZ

working in Riverbank is owning a beautiful building in our historical downtown. It’s my home away from home. I’m so proud to give my employees a beautiful building to work from with

a peaceful environment. The feedback from my clients makes me feel good about moving my Agency to downtown. Q: With the location of your office being in downtown River-

bank, do you find yourself participating in community events more so than if you were located further out of town? A: I definitely find myself more involved in community events after moving my location to downtown Riverbank. My location is directly across the street from the City buildings so I have been fortunate enough to meet and visit with many city employees. I was recently asked by Mr. Cal Campbell (city councilman) to be a director for the Riverbank Historical Society which I have become heavily involved in fundraising (for) so we may expand our city museum. I am on the Riverbank Oversight Committee as well after meeting former Mayor, Virginia Madueno. Getting involved to better our community is not only fun but gives me so much fulfillment.

Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 21

Young Entrepreneur Focuses On Life’s Sweeter Side A love of baking that started in high school has led Escalon’s Kasey John down a sweet path; the entrepreneur looking to establish her own business, Kasey’s Cupcakes. She has already done a variety of events, from graduation parties to the annual Park Fete celebration in Escalon this past July, and is also still attending classes at Stanislaus State. She’s basically a ‘one person show’ for her startup business. “I started selling some in high school,” she said of her confectionary creations. “I did a bake sale (for charity), and I remember just baking and taking things to school to give to my friends.” Along with being an enjoyable

activity, John said she found baking to be a stress reliever for her, and she likes the creativity of developing flavors and decorating the cupcakes, which can range from basic to fancy. “I haven’t taken any (cooking or baking) classes, it has pretty much been trial and error,” she said of coming up with some unique, tasty treats. The 2011 Escalon High School graduate has one semester of school left at Stanislaus State, where she is studying business. “I have a concentration in strategy and entrepreneurship,” John explained. “It has been good so far and there are a couple of classes this semester I am looking CUPCAKES, Page 22

Baker Kasey John pours cupcake batter in to the baking pans, filling an order recently. She hopes to go into business for herself once she completes classes at Stan State in December. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Come in and Meet the Women of

Back Row: Rene Moreno, Meranda Ulrich, Diana James, Sara Garcia, and Lacey Carlton Front Row: Karlie Reep, Jackie Bustos, and Jessica Dotinga Not Pictured: Lupe Ordaz

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Next to Subway & Sara’s Dry Cleaners

847-2226

PHARMACY

Rene Technician, has been working forfor River Oak ReneMoreno Moreno– –IsIsa Registered a Registered Technician, has been working River Oak Pharmacy for 20 years, and is working in our compounding lab making Pharmacy for 20 years, and is working in our compounding lab making custom custom prescriptions prescriptionsto tomeet meetour ourpatient’s patient’sindividual individualneeds. needs. Meranda Ulrich – Is a Registered Technician, assists Rene in in thethe compounding Meranda Ulrich – Is a Registered Technician, assist’s Rene compounding lab, and has been helping patients at River Oak Pharmacy for over 3 lab, and has been helping patients at River Oak Pharmacy for over 3years. years. Diana James – Has been working at River Oak Pharmacy for 16 years. She is an Diana James – Has been working at River Oak Pharmacy for 16 years. She is an expert at dealing with insurance challenges. She helps our Spanish speaking patients, expert at dealing with insurance challenges. She helps our Spanish speaking patients, and enjoys helping all our patients get their prescriptions fi lled accurately & quickly. and enjoys helping all our patients get their prescriptions filled accurately & quickly. Sara Garcia – Is a Registered Technician, and has been working for River Oak Sara Garcia – Is a Registered Technician, and has been working for River Oak Pharmacy for 16 years. She is an excellent patient-oriented technician. She also Pharmacy for 16 years. Shepatients. is an excellent patient oriented technician. She also helps our Spanish speaking helps our Spanish speaking patients. Lacey Carlton – Is a Registered Technician, and expert at customer service. Lacey Carlton – advocate Is a Registered Technician, andwith expert at customer service. She works hard to on behalf of patients insurance companies, She works hard to advocate on behalf of patients with insurance companies, and manages our bubble packing services and synchronization services. and manages packing servicesShe andissynchronization services. Karlie Reep – our Is a bubble Registered Technician. excellent at meeting patient’s Karliefrom ReepDiabetic – Is a Registered Technician. to ShePrescriptions. is excellent at meeting patient’s needs, Shoes to Wheelchairs needs, Bustos from Diabetic Shoes to Wheelchairs Prescriptions. Jackie – Is a bilingual patient service to expert who works diligently to get Jackie Bustos – Isinayour bilingual expert who works diligently to get your medications handpatient and outservice the door as quickly as possible. your medications in your hand and out the door as quickly as possible. Jessica Dotinga – Is a Registered Technician and our customer service expert. Lupe Ordaz - Is a – Registered Technician and our customer serviceservice expert.expert. Jessica Dotinga Is a Registered Technician and our customer 53512_1

B y MARG JAC KS ON

22 — Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015

the request of Lions Club member and Escalon City CouncilContinued From Page 21 man Ed Alves, setting up a table near the historic caboose in Main forward to.” Most of her advertising so far, Street Park and offering sample she added, has come via word of cupcakes for free. It was about putting a product in front of pomouth since she is still in school tential customers, she said. and isn’t ready to focus full time “That was a last minute thing,” yet on the baking. She is able to John admitted. “It was fun, I got fit it in and does take orders. She some good feedback.” attended the Escalon Park Fete at She said it was good to interact with people and helpful to get the word out. She also had her cards available and did get an order from one of those that sampled the product. For John, the most fun is making everyHer personal favorite flavor, Kasey John makes the thing from scratch, as marshmallow topping from scratch for the s’mores that just adds to the cupcakes, then uses a kitchen torch for the ‘toasted’ flavor profiles. effect as if it was made over a campfire.

CUPCAKES

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

CUPCAKES, Page 23

A last minute invitation to bring cupcakes to the Escalon Park Fete this past July saw Kasey John and her mom, Nancy Brayton-John, offering free samples of the culinary confections to festival visitors. PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON

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Women In Business • Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — 23

CUPCAKES Continued From Page 22

“I make everything, down to the marshmallow frosting and caramel, from scratch,” she said. John has more than a dozen flavors of cupcakes and a minimum order is a dozen. She likes to make more than one flavor when baking, but will work with customers to develop their order. “My go-to cupcake, my favorite one is the s’mores cupcake,” she said. “It is a chocolate cake cupcake, with graham cracker crust on the bottom, and marshmallow frosting, plus I have a kitchen torch, I like to crust the top, so it’s like a toasted marshmallow.” Though she lives in Turlock while attending Stan State, John said she is able to come home on weekends and bake in order to fill customer

requests. She said her grandmother is quick to hand out her business cards “to everyone she meets” and her mom is supportive of the business venture as well. It was one of her mom’s close friends that got her interested in baking initially, John said, and she’s excited to see where the path might lead. “Eventually I would like to open a bakery or even just a cupcake store to start,” John said. She is also an admitted fan of baking shows, such as ‘Cupcake Wars’ on The Cooking Channel. “I’ve watched them all,” she said. Looking out a few years, John has some goals once she completes schooling in December. “A five-year plan? If I don’t have a storefront yet, I’d like to at least be selling on line, or a food truck would be awesome,” John said.

Displaying the finished product, Kasey John offers more than a dozen flavors of cupcakes and can also do custom orders. She has been baking since high school and hopes eventually to have her own business. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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24 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Women In Business â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday, August 26, 2015

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