Progress April 2016

April 2016 Vol. 37 Issue 4 modchamber.org

MODESTO’S GOING

GREEN Warden's Goes Green

Ask the Experts

Leadership Modesto

CONTENTS APRIL 2016

Mission Statement

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.

Executive Committee

LEADERSHIP

4

Message from CEO

COVER STORY

6

Modesto's Going Green

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

10 Fighting Organized Crime

Benefits California Economy

Chairman Eric Tobias, F&M Bank Chairman-Elect Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.

NETWORKING & REFERRALS

Past Chairman David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

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Chamber Calendar

Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO

ASK THE EXPERTS

Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum,CPA

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Financial Institutions EDUCATION

Directors Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Jeffery Burda, Wells Fargo Business Banking Todd Falduti,Vintage Faire Mall Ryan Fitzpatrick,Valley Lexus Mike Garcia, Oak Valley Community Bank David Gingerich, TD Gingerich Insurance Solutions, Inc. Brad Hawn, CHG Paul Holshouser, Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Naomi Layland, Huff Construction Co, Inc. Craig Lewis, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Virginia Madueño, Imagen, LLC DeSha McLeod, Community Hospice Inc. Nate Miller, Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Tom Nielsen, Beard Land and Investment Co. Peggy O’Donnell, Mid-Valley Promotion Thomas Reeves, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Kole Siefken, DoubleTree Hotel Lucy Virgen, Bank of the West Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

16 SCOE'S Alternative Education Schools w Move to Digital Classrooms

Printer: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 • mike@theparksgroup.com Distribution: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 Advertising Sales: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • progress@neverboring.com © Copyright 2016 Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing.

209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org

PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org Progress@ModChamber.org

23

Leadership Modesto: State Government Day

24

Leadership Modesto: Media Day

Ambassador Corner

A lot has changed for me this year. On the same day I was celebrating becoming the 2015 Ambassador of the Year, I was also celebrating the life of my father who had recently passed away. The experience was unique and difficult, but it also made me stronger and I noticed the little things I used to stress about became so small that they mostly dropped completely off my radar.

Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce CRussell@ModChamber.org

Graphic Design: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • www.neverboring.com

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Advisors Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College David Boring, Never Boring Kristopher Helton, Leadership Modesto Jim Holgersson, City of Modesto David White, The Alliance Melissa Williams, Modesto Irrigation District

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org

BRAIN MCDERMOTT

I had to carefully choose what to invest my time in. When considering whether or not to continue to be a Modesto Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, I realized that by making a small 1-2 hour a week time investment, I was a part of a team that had done so much. The Chamber, its Ambassadors, and Welcome Team members have helped grow the economy, provide free education, celebrate its local businesses, advocate on our behalf with the state, assist with reducing crime and unemployment, and worked together to bring new businesses in to the Modesto Community.

This is the community that my son goes to college in and a community that my friends and their families live in. I will continue to be a Modesto Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, and I encourage anyone that reads this to come join our team.

We meet on the last Wednesday of each month at 8 a.m. at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce office. If you reach out to me and I’ll be happy to be a mentor. Just a few hours a week can make a huge difference! P APRIL 2016

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PUBLI C A DVO CACY

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By Cecil Russell, Chamber President and CEO

CECIL RUSSELL CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO

We are very thankful for all of the rain that we have received this season. We welcome more rain to support our very important agricultural economy. The experts are stating that we are still not out of the drought; however they are also stating that the farmers will get more water this season. Whether the additional water supply will support the farmers on the west side to plant some of the land that has been fallowed is still to be determined. The additional water will also help improve our parks and schools parched conditions.

Speaking of agriculture, our 21st Annual Ag Aware Luncheon event is coming up Friday, Apr. 15 at the Modesto Junior College ACE Pavilion. This event continues to raise funds for Modesto area schools FFA programs. There is still time to sponsor and/or buy tables for this event. Contact the Chamber today! Additional events coming up include Earth Day in the Park Apr. 23, Lemonade Day May 21. Lemonade Day this year is coordinated by Datapath. Contact Datapath for more information on sponsorships, 209.300.7333.

We have had many new businesses opening and joining with the Chamber in the last few months: 209 Magazine, Block Advisors, The Century, Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, Core Transformations, Custom Casino Events, Darroch Brain and Spine Institute of Doctors Medical Center, Deli Delicious, Disability Resource Agency for Independent Living-DRAIL, Do-Good Distillery, Guayabitos Restaurant, HealthSouth Rehabilitation of Modesto, The Intertwine Group, LLC, Kiwanis Club of Modesto, Kurios Energy, Legal Shield/ID Shield, MS West Enterprises DBA Certified Collision Center,

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS Modesto Chamber Chamber of of Commerce Commerce II PROGRESS PROGRESS Modesto

North Modesto Kiwanis, Ontel Security Services, Inc., The Park, Primerica, R.A. McDonald Company, Rita’s Italian Ice, and Sylvan Union School District.

We had the pleasure of introducing the opening of the Darroch Brain and Spine institute of Doctors Medical Center. Warren Kirk, CEO of Doctors Medical Center stated at the opening that this was state of the art treatment for brain and spine patients. He also introduced the three neurosurgeons that will run the institute. We are very fortunate to have their quality of care here in Modesto. We also have a new rehabilitation hospital, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Modesto, that will open. It is located on the corner of Mable and Coffee. They will have approximately 120 new full-time employees and will offer much needed additional services for our area.

We want to thank Sysco for the hosting and sponsoring of the Empty Bowls event that raised over $150,000 for Second Harvest. Steve Madison, Steve Rank, both Modesto Chamber Board Members, and I attended and it was a great event. Thank you to Liz Aspray, President of Sysco, for the invitation.

Please join the Connecting for Good Event to be held Thursday Apr. 28th 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Modesto Centre Plaza. This is the third annual event, come and you will learn how to create solutions for problems that seem too big to solve. This is a ticketed event and you may register: connectingforgood2016.eventbrite.com.

This event is sponsored by Stanislaus Community Foundation, United Way, City Ministry Network, Prime Shine Foundation, American Leadership Forum and the City of Modesto. Come and find out how you can help improve the quality of life for all in Modesto. P

From Idea to Action Thursday, April 28, 2016 | 8:00 am to 5:00 pm | Modesto Centre Plaza 1000 L Street in Downtown Modesto Join us for the third annual Connecting for Good event and learn how to create solutions for problems that seem too big to solve.

The 2016 Connecting for Good event will showcase the SMALLIFY Rapid Innovation Lab developed and presented by Dave Viotti. Viotti will lead a full-day action lab that produces results while building creative problem-solving skills and buy-in from event participants.

During the Innovation Lab, participants will create concepts that can be tested immediately with a goal of validating, iterating, and launching breakthrough solutions in months, rather than years.

Attendees will have the opportunity to choose between working on existing regional solutions at their tables OR purchase an entire table of ten to focus on their own organizational challenge to ‘smallify’ and solve during the day.

As a follow-up to this year’s event, and thanks to a grant from the Prime Shine & Porges Family Foundation, participants will also have the opportunity to apply for a half-day action lab wtih Dave Viotti. Four groups will be chosen to spend more time with Viotti on May 31 and June 1, 2016. Application details to be announced at the event.

Register Today!

individual Tickets: $35 Table of Ten: $300 Continental breakfast & lunch will be provided

To regiSTer: https://connectingforgood2016.eventbrite.com

APRIL 2016

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{COVER STORY }

GREEN

MODESTO’S GOING

By Noel Daniel

There is a lot involved in helping the environment and—as a community—we have a responsibility to educate ourselves. With the current state of environmental affairs, it’s no surprise that businesses are facing more regulations.

“Businesses now are required by law to recycle,” said Vicki Rice, Recycling Program Coordinator. “It is based on how much garbage they generate. Our office helps determine who is responsible and we assist with compliance.”

And it’s not just recycling that’s important. Matters like water conservation, energy conservation, and more are accounted for by groups like Rice’s, utilities companies, and especially the Stanislaus Green Team.

“Any business or individual can come to our monthly Green Team meetings in downtown Modesto,” said Linden Coffee, Chairman of the Stanislaus Green Team, who also works for the American

Recylcing Company. “They are held on the third Thursday of each month at the Kirk Lindsey Center at 9 a.m. Our goal is to have presentations every month to let businesses in Stanislaus County know what they can do to lower the cost of doing business in this county.”

In fact, businesses looking for more ways to go green have a friend in Modesto’s myriad agencies—such as the Utilities Department for the City of Modesto. Larry Parlin, the Director of Utilities, recommends that businesses request water audits from their department wherein a consultant would visit a business to educate owners on how to save water.

“We have the programs to support the conservation,” said Larry Parlin, Director of Utilities. “And we’re 85 percent metered. We have about 15 percent of the city doesn't have meters, but in about five years the city will be completely metered.”

"…IT IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY TO BE GOOD STEWARDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND PRACTICE REDUCE-REUSE-RECYCLE EACH AND EVERY DAY.…"

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

{COVER STORY }

Just like there are regulations on recycling, there are state-mandated reductions in water—and that’s only one of the programs set up to support water conservation. There’s also the Residential Turf Replacement Program as well as rebates for businesses who install low-flow appliances.

The least-popular program, of course, are the fines for water waste, wherein those who overuse water will be fined anywhere from $150 to $500. But as unpopular as water prices and fines might be, they’re integral to ensuring California’s groundwater stability— which Parlin has confirmed has been stable since conservation efforts started.

“We’re still in the drought, technically,” said Parlin. “We don’t know if things will go back to the way they were. In fact, we’re pretty sure things won’t go back to the way they were.”

For those conscious about conserving, Parlin had a few crucial tips. Check your meters and, if it still registers water running while all the water is off, it means you might have a leak on your hand. In terms of restaurants, don’t serve water unless it’s requested. Hotels should put up signs asking guests to use towels for at least one extra day. Check modestogov.com to f ind videos and more tips for conserving.

“They’re gonna save money twice because commercial and industrial customers are reducing anything they can reduce,” said Parlin.

Since conservation efforts were enacted, businesses have saved roughly 25 percent more water than before, and the city’s saved 30 percent. The per capita numbers are certainly looking more heartening, as well.

“It’s different in different parts of the state,” Parlin said, “we have a lot more outside irrigation use here than on the coast. Just to give you an example of what we’ve done here in Modesto: During the summer in 2013, we were about 250 gallons per person per day in summer. In the winter, it was about 125. This past year, we’re down in the summer to 177 gallons and in the winter we’re down to about 80 per day.”

And while Modesto’s reducing, the Solid Waste Division is spearheading an effort to ensure that recycling is also on the docket with the Business Recycling Awards.

“In my opinion the reward is in the recycling,” said Rice. “It is everyone’s responsibility to be good stewards of the environment and practice reduce-reuse-recycle each and every day. Businesses that are able to recover commodities like CRV, cardboard, and metals can realize monetary rewards when they turn those items into local recycling companies.”

Applications for the Business Recycling Awards are available to any commercial business, organization, or nonprof it group in the city and winners will be chosen in each of these categories: small businesses (i.e., fewer than 20 employees), medium businesses (i.e., 21 to 100 employees), and large businesses (i.e., over 100 employees).

In addition to the Business Recycling Awards, Modesto has a very active green waste program that permits residents to put out yard trimmings and leaves that don’t fit in the green can once a month according to their area’s schedule. The City of Modesto has several partnerships as well, like the Adopt-a- Park Program, Backyard Composting Workshops, Go-Green with the Modesto Nuts, America Recycles Day, and Earth Day in the Park.

The Team also provides free, 30-minute analyses of business facilities to assess them from an environmental perspective, focusing on how to save the business money through conservation. Businesses are given a binder with a 7-page checklist that’s sectioned into Recycling & Solid Waste, Water Conservation, Pollution, Energy, and Transportation.

Completion of the checklist earns the business a certif icate from the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and the Stanislaus Green Team.

“Anyone that is interested in going green is encouraged to come listen and, if they want, even present what their company is doing to be sustainable,” said Coffee. “In short, anyone can come visit the Green Team meetings. I believe if more people get involved in our monthly Green Team meetings it will help resurrect the REACON Team.” P

“…THROUGH EDUCATION AND OUTREACH WE CAN ALL MAKE RECYCLING A PART OF OUR DAILY LIVES.…"

-VICKI RICE, RECYCLING PROGRAM COORDINATOR

APRIL 2016

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EDI TORIAL

SOLARCITY PROUDLY SERVING MODESTO

By Brady Anderson, Director of SolarCity's Modesto Warehouse

SolarCity is proud to serve the City of Modesto and the surrounding region. Our business creates good, local jobs, consumer choice, and a way for families and businesses to make healthier choices for our environment. As Director of our Modesto warehouse, I have the pleasure of not only working with our wonderful customers and world-class staff, but also knowing that we are helping bring the future of energy to the City of Modesto. As a local resident of Stanislaus County for the past 35 years and as a Modesto Irrigation District (MID) customer, I have witnessed the true benef its that solar can have on our local economy and air quality.

Modesto deserves to envision its energy infrastructure as both cleaner and more affordable. Having a wife and three children who suffer from respiratory issues caused by air pollutants, it is my mission to continue to help in any way I can to clean up our air quality in the Central Valley. SolarCity brings clean, renewable solar energy generation directly to the customer site and gives customers control, while still working with MID on

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

energy delivery. We are proud to provide the opportunity for Modestans to go solar and really commit to dependence on renewable, sustainable power.

SolarCity doesn’t just help homeowners go solar; it helps businesses, local government, schools, and houses of worship to go solar. Local businesses in Modesto can realize cost savings from going solar and can feel good about the responsible business decision coupled with good environmental stewardship.

California is a leader in renewable energy and Modesto is central to the success story. As more and more residents install solar, they are voting with their dollar to invest in smart solutions for their home and the environment. Going solar is also a boost to the local economy—solar creates local jobs. According to The Solar Foundation, in 2015 alone, California added more than 20,000 solar workers, an astonishing 38.2% growth rate in solar employment!

We look forward to continuing to bring solar energy and solar jobs to the people of Modesto. SolarCity and the rest of the solar industry look to the City’s leadership to continue strong solar policies that promote job creation, consumer choice, and environmentally-friendly alternatives. P

You Have a Choice. Experience the Difference at English Oaks.

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ENGISH OAKS Nursing & Rehabilitaion Center

2633 West Rumble Road, Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 577-1001

View a virtual tour of English Oaks at www.englishoaksrehab.com

APRIL 2016

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G OV ERNMENT RELATIO NS

FIGHTING ORGANIZED CRIME BENEFITS CALIFORNIA ECONOMY

By Assemblymember Kristin Olsen

KRISTIN OLSEN ASSEMBLYMEMBER

On average, California loses close to $1 million of revenue each day due to cargo theft crimes. Nearly every type of industry has been hit with the loss of goods such as food, clothing, and electronics. Last November, the Valley’s own Horizon Nut Company and Setton Farms both lost millions of dollars worth of pistachios to truckers carrying false identification. Thefts like these have hit every region of the nation and of the state – and must be stopped.

Cargo theft is not a new problem in California. More than two decades ago, cargo theft in our state was becoming an increasingly common crime due to local law enforcement’s inability to apprehend criminals engaging in cargo theft. In January of 1994, Assembly Bill 813 was passed to create The Cargo Theft Interdiction Program (CTIP), which established direct communication between private industry and law enforcement and funded the implementation of cargo theft suppression efforts. Unfortunately, over the last decade, cargo theft-related crimes has continued to rise dramatically. According to the California Highway Patrol, combined losses suffered by the trucking industry, insurance companies, and the railroads due to cargo theft surpasses an estimated $10 billion in the United States annually. In California alone, cargo theft accounts for a total loss value of $18.7 million each year. It is clear that we need to give law enforcement better tools to protect businesses, and deter future theft.

According to the California Highway

Patrol, combined losses suffered by the

trucking industry, insurance companies, and the railroads due to cargo theft

surpasses an estimated $10 billion in the United States annually.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

That is why I have introduced AB 2805, a bill that creates a statewide task force of business and law enforcement stakeholders to study and find solutions to help strengthen law enforcement’s ability to crack down on cargo theft crimes.

Many of these thefts are organized efforts that span multiple counties and surpass the jurisdiction of one local police force. AB 2805 will empower law enforcement across the state as it works to eradicate these organized crimes and protect our state’s economy.

California’s economy is one of the most diverse and unique in the nation. Our valley industries manufacture products that regularly cross county, state, and national borders. We must safeguard our trade economy by providing law enforcement and businesses the resources it needs to combat cargo theft, and protect the many people that this crime impacts. P Please help our local economy by sending letters of support for this measure to Assemblymember.Olsen@assembly.ca.gov.

Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, is recognized as a solution-focused reformer. She represents the 12th Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties in the Central Valley. Follow her on Twitter: @KristinOlsenCA

Please Join Us for Business After Hours April 14 at 7:30 a.m.

{ APRIL } B U S IN E S S

BEFORE H OU RS

Main office: 1301 G Street, Suite B Modesto Sonora office: 83 S. Stewart St., Suite 204

Business Before hosted by:

Valley Charter High School (VCHS) is a California Gold Ribbon School with outstanding opportunities for approximately 200 students.

VCHS is an “Early College” partnership between the Stanislaus County Office of Education and Modesto Junior College, originally founded in 1999 as Valley Business High School with the encouragement of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

As a charter school, VCHS is open to any student in Stanislaus and adjacent counties. Our vision is to equip students with confidence and competence for college, career and community success. VCHS offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with small class sizes, a technology program with a world-class robotics team, and tuition-free college classes during the school day.

For more information, visit our website at www.valleycharterhighschool.org or call Valley Charter High School at 209.238.6800.

P

Serving the greater Stanislaus and Gold Country areas Thinking OUTSIDE the box and coloring within the lines • Tax planning and preparation • Audit representation and audit reporting • Bookkeeping and training • All entity types and sizes

Come see us at our new location- “perched” upstairs at 1301 G Street, Suite B

www.HawksCPA.com 209-529-4060

Please Join Us for Business After Hours April 21 at 5:30 p.m.

{ APRIL } B U S I N E S S

AFTER H OUR S

Business After hosted by:

Established in Chico in 1975, Tri Counties Bank is one of California’s leading financial institutions with assets of over $4 billion. The bank provides a unique brand of Service with Solutions available in traditional stand-alone and in-store bank branches in communities throughout Northern and Central California.

The Tri Counties Bank team in Modesto provides a competitive breadth of consumer, small business and commercial banking financial services, enhanced by online and mobile banking services and nationwide access to a more than 25,000 surcharge free MoneyPass network ATMs. It is our mission to improve the financial success and well-being of our customers, communities, employees and shareholders. After all, banking is a people business. We're here to help people live better lives through Service With Solutions. P

APRIL 2016

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GUEST COLUMN WARDEN’S OFFICE PRODUCTS: YOUR GREEN OFFICE SOLUTION

By Joe Cunningham, President of Warden's Office Supply

By now, you have no doubt heard the term, “Green Office Solutions.” There are countless that companies, and offices, or individuals can be ‘green conscious’ and/ or ‘green friendly.’ Many have taken the steps necessary to be responsible to care for our environment. However, what does a company do with its existing, outdated office furniture when it’s time for a major re-model and/or to move locations? Those JOE CUNNINGHAM in corporate real estate and in facilities management are all too familiar with this challenge—and it becomes even more of a challenge when the impact on our environment is also considered. Unfortunately, much obsolete office furniture often ends up in the local landfill.

Warden’s Office Products Center in Modesto offers a recycle plan for those companies either relocating or remodeling in the Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Merced County areas, to help keep this type of product out of our local landfills.

Some office furniture pieces are at the end of their lifecycle and will end up in the landfill no matter what a company desired.

However, similar to e-waste, there are many components of a chair and partitions that can be recycled if the entire pre-owned unit cannot be repurposed or is not viable for resale as a whole unit. Warden’s is often asked to ‘discard’ or ‘haul off ’ the old office furniture at the time of a new remodel or at the time of the installation of new workstations and seating. Warden’s

ModestoChamber ChamberofofCommerce Commerce I I PROGRESS PROGRESS 1212 Modesto

generally completes this service, at no additional labor charge to the customer. The pre-owned product is evaluated once it arrives at Warden’s warehouse to determine if it will be disassembled for the recycle bins or if it will be refurbished. Depending on the condition and potential future use of the desks, chairs, tables, etc., many items can be resold as ‘gently-used’ or ‘preowned.’ This not only saves the next buyer money, but it also helps keep this furniture from the landfills and the waste of the manufacturing process and materials needed to create new items.

The second-hand office furniture market is limited and local companies who are anticipating a remodel or a move can benefit by preplanning. Our community has many worthwhile nonprofit organizations that could benefit from a direct donation of gently-used office furniture. These types of in-kind donations, however, take advance planning and coordination with the nonprofit to ensure a smooth transition from one office to the next.

Our environment, as well as, the non-profit benefit from this type of recycling.

Although there are no firm figures on how much office furniture ends up in landfills nationally each year, it is safe to assume the total annual amount runs into the hundreds of thousands of tons per year. Warden’s Office Products has been involved in the pre-owned or gently-used office furniture marketplace in the Central Valley for over 25 years. Warden’s estimates they save approximately 3 tons per week, over 150 tons per year, and well over 3000 tons in the last 25 years – that’s 6 million pounds – of old office furniture that does not end up in our local landfill! P

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APRIL 2016

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N E T W ORK I NG & REFERRALS

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS 209 MAGAZINE Hank Vanderveen

ONTEL SECURITY SERVICES, INC.

138 S. Central St.

David McCann

Turlock CA, 95380

708 L St.

209.634.9141

Modesto, CA 95354

hvanderveen@209magazine.com

209.521.0200

209magazine.com

Fax 209.521.0209 ontelsecurity.com

HEALTHSOUTH REHABILITATION OF MODESTO

R.A. MCDONALD COMPANY

Kay Peck

1200 Woodrow Ave., #10H

1303 Mable Ave.

Modesto, CA 95350

Modesto, CA 95355

415.931.7684

Bob McDonald

ramcdonaldco.com

JAYSTAR INC. DBA: LEGAL SHIELD/ID SHIELD Judy Stark

SYLVAN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT

4641 Gomes Rd.

Debra Hendricks

Modesto CA, 95357

605 Sylvan Ave.

209.595.4816

Modesto, CA 95350

jaystar.legalshieldassociate.com

209.574.5000 sylvan.k12.ca.us

KIWANIS CLUB OF MODESTO Anthony Butera

THE INTERTWINE GROUP, LLC

P.O. Box 225

Elliot Begoun

Modesto, CA 95350

912 11th St., Ste. 201

209.315.5245

Modesto CA, 95354

modesto-kiwanis.org

209.910.5999 theintertwinegroup.com

KURIOS ENERGY 3025 E. Palm Ave., Ste. 101

CHUKCHANSI GOLD RESORT & CASINO

Modesto, CA 95357

711 Lucky Ln.

209.599.1111

Coarsegold, CA 93614

kuriosenergy.com

866.794.6946

Todd Filburn

chukchansigold.com

To become a member of the Chamber visit us at www.modchamber.org or call our Membership Director, John Villines, at 209.577.5757

Introducing the

Grow Modesto Fund Small business loans From $5,000 to $300,000 Inquiries: (209) 567-4910 In partnership with:

• Gap & Bridge Financing • Working Capital • Machinery and Equipment • Tenant Improvements • Business Acquisitions • Franchises

Apply online! www.growmodestofund.com 14

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Locally Owned, Locally Operated, Locally Involved Founded in 1966, AVAILABILITY continues to be independently owned and operated. We know the people. We know the industries.

We know the heartbeat of the Central Valley. You can count on us to provide the most talented professionals, the most interesting career opportunities and the hands-on service that can only come from a local company.

Celebrating 50 years of being in Business in the Central Valley.

Lo ca the lly O Co wne mm d un & Pr ity ou Sin dly ce Se 19 rvi 90 ng .

Follow us on:

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APRIL 2016

15

N ETW ORK I NG & REFERRALS

RIBBON CUTTINGS

BRIGHTWOOD COLLEGE 5172 Kiernan Ct. Salida, CA 95358 brightwood.edu

DARROCH BRAIN & SPINE INSTITUTE OF DOCTORS MEDICAL CENTER 4016 Dale Rd. Modesto, CA 95356 dmc-neurospine.com

LEGALSHIELD/IDSHIELD Judy Stark jaystar.legalshieldassociate.com

MODESTO MODERN DENTISTRY 2103 McHenry Ave., Ste. C Modesto, CA 95350 ModestoModernDentistry.com

To become a member of the Chamber visit usat www.modchamber.org or call our Membership Director, John Villines, at 209.577.5757

NORTH MODESTO KIWANIS 645 Charity Way Modesto, CA 95356 www.northmodestokiwanis.org

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

CHAMBER CALENDAR APRIL 2016

MAY 2016

5

CHAMBER UNIVERSITY**

3

CHAMBER UNIVERSITY*

Supervisors Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Presented by: SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

1114 J St., Downtown Modesto

Supervisors Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Presented by: SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

1114 J St., Downtown Modesto

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

4 & 18

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

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CHAMBER UNIVERSITY**

10

CHAMBER UNIVERSITY*

Get Fit Modesto – Tara Crenshaw 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

1114 J St., Downtown Modesto

SCORE Overview Something for Everyone* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

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MARKETING THROUGH THE CHAMBER**

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

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BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

Valley Charter High School 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

318 Campus Way, Modesto

AG AWARE LUNCHEON**

MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE – ACE PAVILION

11 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M.

2201 BLUE GUM AVE., MODESTO

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BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY COLLEGE

5380 PIRRONE RD.

7:30 A.M. TO 8:30 A.M.

19

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

Kirk Lindsey Center 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

1020 10th St.

19

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

12

SCORE Location to come 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

19

CHAMBER UNIVERSITY: LITTLER'S SPRING 2016

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA BREAKFAST BRIEFING SERIES

20

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

Kirk Lindsey Center 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

1020 10th St.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

21

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

25

AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM*

Kirk Lindsey Center 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

1020 10th St.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St.

8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

21

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Tri Counties Bank 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

3601 Pelandale Ave., Ste. E-5, Modesto

27

AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM*

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

*MEMBERS ONLY MEETINGS HELD AT THE CHAMBER 1114 J ST. **PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.MODCHAMBER.ORG

APRIL 2016

17

E CONOMI C DEVELOP MENT

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE The law firm of Herum\Crabtree\Suntag is pleased to announce the addition of Blaine Cox as a new associate attorney. Mr. Cox originally joined Herum\Crabtree\Suntag as a Summer associate in 2014, and became an associate attorney after passing the Fall 2015 California Bar Exam. Blaine is involved in the firm’s diverse business law, land use, and public agency practices.

Mr. Cox graduated from Modesto High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before receiving his law degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. While in law school, Mr. Cox continued his focus in business and government law, receiving the Witkin Award for Academic Excellence in Torts and the B.T. Collins Scholarship for leadership and public services.

BLAINE COX

After graduating from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Mr. Cox was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry Branch of the California Army National Guard. Prior to attending law school, he graduated from the US Army Infantry Basic Officers Leaders Course and the US Army Pathfinder School. Mr. Cox continues serving as an Infantry officer in the California Army National Guard.

Mr. Cox was born, raised and continues living in Modesto.

Never Boring is pleased to announce that they have a new Chief Operating Officer, Duane Parsons.

DUANE PARSON

In addition, Mr. Parsons has served as President of American Heart Association of Stanislaus County, and President of Central Valley Medical Group Management Association. Mr. Parsons has enjoyed a lifetime of musical creativity as a drummer for musical groups locally and having performed live on stage at the Academy Awards.

"I am excited to add my support to the most creative people I have ever met," said Parsons.

Never Boring is also pleased to announce that Michele Laverty is the new Interim Marketing Manager, formerly the Director of the National Ag Science Center for the last 15 years. Laverty will be working with Never Boring for the next several months helping the agency expand its agricultural client base.

P

HELPING VALLEY BUSINESS GROW MICHELE LAVERTY

Rod Alonzo, Frank Boots, and Joseph Smith of API, Inc., with Peter Brown, VP Commercial Loan Officer, 209.844.7522 and Ron Davenport, VP Sales Manager, 209.343.7627

At Oak Valley Community Bank, we take pride in “Oak Valley’s attention to helping our customers and communities get stronger. detail and commitment to The most rewarding opportunities are often those delivering results was which provide local businesses the ability to grow refreshing as we worked and help our communities thrive. through the financing of our new facility. Their knowledge and experience with SBA loan programs made the process run smoothly from Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches beginning to end.”

– Frank Boots, President, Architecture Plus Inc

18

866.844.7500 • ovcb.com

Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock • Patterson Escalon • Ripon • Stockton • Manteca • Tracy

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Mr. Parsons brings to NB a rich experience in office administration, having served as Controller of Doctors Medical Center, Administrator of Valley Heart Associates, and most recently, Administrator of Orangeburg Medical Group. He has a Bachelor’s Degree Economics from UCLA.

NB is excited at the depth of experience they bring to their staff to help them better serve their clients and the community. P

Join3rdus

every Thursday of the month!

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. Plaza, Ste 102

Stanislaus County Sheriff

1854

Keeping the Peace since

/

Take a stand and help make a difference in your community.

JOIN our team today!

Chaplain Program | Dive Team | Explorers | Correctional Emergency Response Team | K9 Unit | Mounted Unit Deputy Sheriff | Honor Guard | STARS Citizen Volunteers | Air Support Unit | Bomb Squad | SWAT

Š Modesto Irrigation District

For information on recruitment please call: (209) 567-4412 or beadeputy.com

Lighting rebates

HVAC rebates

High efficiency motor rebates

APRIL 2016

19

ASK THE EXPER TS LO O KIN G F O R A N A N S WE R ? A S K T HE E X P E R T S .

Every month, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce takes your questions straight to our local professionals.

This month, Financial Institutions are here to answer your questions.

MIK E GAR CIA

Vice President Commercial Banking Oak Valley Community Bank

Q:

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO REFINANCE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY? In times like these where long term interest rates are at historic lows, it’s a pivotal time to evaluate your real estate portfolio financing options.

Before doing so, be sure to ask yourself a couple basic questions. First, “What’s the approximate property value”? Second, “How is the property cash flow”? If both of these responses are positive, the next step is to consider your current loan terms (existing fixed rate duration, balloon payment, prepayment penalty, etc.) and upfront expenses (appraisal, loan fees, closing costs, etc.) in relation to the interest savings. Calculate your monthly savings and determine how long you will need to hold the property in order to offset these expenses. If the refinance will pay for itself in a few years and your intent is to hang on to the property for at least that long, then it is most likely worth your time and effort to refinance.

Office: 209.343.7607 1200 I Street, Suite 3, Modesto, CA 95354 mgarcia@ovcb.com | www.ovcb.com P

TR ACE Y K E R R

Mosce

Q:

CAN MOCSE HELP ME LOVE MY HOME AGAIN? Yes! For your major or minor home improvement projects, Mocse has competitive products designed just for you on your owneroccupied home. We offer low or no fees and competitive low rates with no prepayment penalties or annual fees. Your choices include a Home Equity Line of Credit with a variable rate that adjusts only quarterly.

Or, there is the fixed rate home equity loan with a variety of payment options. Our no equity, no problem HIP loan has a fixed low interest rate.

Let Mocse help you select the home equity loan that is right for you.

Not a member? You could be! If you work, worship, attend school, or live in Stanislaus, Merced, Tuolumne, or Mariposa County, you are eligible.

Apply today: Call 800.44.Mocse ext. 830.

Or, apply online at www.Mocse.org! P

20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

K RISTIN REZ A & MADHU SI NG H

Branch Manager Modesto Commerce Bank

Q:

WHY WOULD A COMMUNITY BANK BE BETTER SUITED TO ASSIST ITS CUSTOMERS IN PROTECTING THEIR FINANCES? At Bank of Stockton/Modesto Commerce Bank, it’s about personal relationships and our staff knows its customers! Here are some of the ways we help protect them: Our online banking and mobile banking products offer daily balance alerts.

We have event-triggered alerts based on thresholds that consumers can customize in their online banking profile.

We analyze all debit card transactions BEFORE they are authorized to ensure transactions are within recognizable purchasing patterns.

On checking accounts, we review characteristics of normal customer behavior and analyze it against the day’s transactions to find any abnormalities.

Our overdraft alert allows customers to immediately transfer funds to cover the overdraft and avoid a fee.

We offer CardValet, a mobile app that allows our customers to turn their debit card “on” when in use and “off ” when not in use.

The Bank of Stockton always looks out for our friends. With over 149 years of strength and stability, let us add you to our list of happy customers! P

ASK THE EXPER TS LO O KIN G F O R A N A N S WE R ? A S K T HE E X P E R T S .

Every month, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce takes your questions straight to our local professionals.

This month, Financial Institutions are here to answer your questions.

D AN FREEMAN

FAT IM A " T IN A" S E WAR D

Scenic Oaks Funding

Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager BAC Community Bank, Modesto

Q:

Q:

WHICH IS A SAFER METHOD OF PAYING BILLS – BY PAPER CHECK OR DEBIT CARD?

Although writing paper checks is standard business practice, once a check leaves your hands you have little control over who sees it. That may not be much of a concern, until it falls into the wrong hands.

What’s the risk? Paper checks include more sensitive information than you might think. For example, they typically include your name, address, bank name, routing number, account number, and a specimen signature.

If your bank account information is compromised, thieves could gain direct access to your money.

However, if a debit card is used in a transaction and somehow gets compromised, only the card number is at risk – not your actual bank account. Since your debit card is simply linked to your bank account behind the scenes, it is much easier to cancel the card and get a new one instead of having the hassles and costs of closing and replacing your checking account.

ISN'T GETTING A MORTGAGE JUST ABOUT 3 THINGS? A JOB, AN ACCEPTABLE CREDIT SCORE, AND MONEY FOR A DOWN PAYMENT OR EQUITY FOR A REFINANCE?

I wish it were just that easy. But it is not. There are many loan products today to fit many different needs/situations. Some require a better credit score and some don't. Some require stronger income -to-debt ratios and some don't. Some can overcome situations where the person doesn't have a lot of funds for a down payment. Self employed people face a more difficult circumstance as sometimes we can't count some of their income at all and often their income isn't always consistent. An experienced mortgage loan originator can quickly assess your individual situation and guide you in the correct direction. They can also offer suggestions to improve your application information. Also, they can explain the reasons for each step in the process. This should all lead to a greater confidence level for the borrower in beginning a process that often leads to one of their biggest financial decisions.

NMLS: 637523 | 209402.8540 P

209.342.5297 | bankbac.com P

APRIL 2016

21

EDUCATION SCOE’S ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION SCHOOLS MOVE TO DIGITAL CLASSROOMS

By Scott Kuykendall, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Options, Stanislaus County Office of Education

SCOTT KUYKENDALL

Chromebooks have replaced traditional textbooks at SCOE’s Alternative Education schools this year, and classrooms are looking a lot different. Not too long ago students visited computer labs, which featured rows of desktop computers that allowed for occasional tech-based lessons. Today, with wireless connectivity and powerful mobile tools, schools are taking students beyond the walls of their classrooms on a daily basis.

At the beginning of the school year, each student was given a Chromebook to access online curriculum. The move to Chromebooks, which SCOE calls the 1:Web Initiative, provides students access to a Common Core Standards-aligned curriculum and a 21st Century Learning Environment. Students can access their curriculum and work anywhere they have Internet access. In addition, students are able to use Google Apps and other online tools to complete assignments. With the move from paper-based curriculum to web-based content, curriculum now includes video clips, audio podcasts, and online collaborative projects.

"SCHOOLS ARE TAKING STUDENTS BEYOND THE WALLS OF THEIR CLASSROOMS ON A DAILY BASIS." “One of the biggest impacts about these changes, is the ability for teachers and students to personalize learning and communicate and collaborate with each other,” said Burt Lo, Director of Online Learning at SCOE. “Students can work through the curriculum at their own pace, and teachers can look at student progress and provide small group instruction to meet individual student learning needs. In addition, students now have access to online tools and the ability to work collaboratively on assignments with other students and even create multimedia projects, such as videos.”

Lo said that the use of Chromebooks is also preparing students to be career-ready. “Over five million businesses, including the US Army, use Google Apps in their operations,” he said. “By using Google Apps to complete their school assignments. P

" THE USE OF CHROMEBOOKS IS PREPARING STUDENTS TO BE CAREER-READY." Students at the Tactical Character Academy in Ceres use Chromebooks instead of textbooks.

22

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

COMM UN ITY D EVELOPM EN T

STATE GOVERNMENT DAY

By Joshua Little, G3 Enterprises

Today our Leadership Modesto class had the opportunity to visit the State Capitol. It was an action packed day that gave us a snapshot into the issues and ideas that our representatives are working on to improve Modesto, Stanislaus County, and the region as a whole.

JOSHUA LITTLE 15/16

Our first meeting was with Karen Lange, a lobbyist partner with Shaw / Yoder / Antwih.

It was an energetic first presentation and her passion, network and in-depth knowledge was apparent. I got the sense that Stanislaus County is in good hands with their firm.

Afterwards we went on a tour through the Capitol. We started at the original Treasurer’s office which at one point in the early 1900’s was the only place where Californians could register their car. Around 1915, there were 150,000 people that registered through this single desk.

It made the DMV seem like a short wait! The Senate and Assembly Chambers were especially impressive, with a combination of British and Roman architectural influences throughout.

We had several other staff members speak to the group. The key of our politicians and lobbyists in Sacramento today were consistent; securing additional water for the future and improving our transportation infrastructure options and quality.

Overall, we were impressed with our advocates in Sacramento. Each presentation was uniquely inspiring and informative, with varying perspectives but the same underlying goal— continue to make our region stronger and put future generations in the best position for economic and civic prosperity.

We came back with a greater appreciation for how our state government functions and the people who are leading the effort. On the bus ride back to Modesto, I even overheard some conversations among classmates asking each other, “When will you be running for office?”

A special thanks to our day chairs that planned and executed the day flawlessly, Doris Foster and Kris Helton. P

Following the tour, Assemblymember Kristin Olsen presented to the group about her role in State Government and discussed some of the topics she is focusing on including transportation and water. Regarding the water challenges throughout California, Assemblymember Olsen said that there is not one simple solution but that we need to pursue multiple avenues to ensure adequate supply for the future. Some ideas including creating additional holding capacity, investing in desalinization facilities, and increasing conservation efforts. The recent rain has been a blessing but unfortunately will not solve our state’s long term water challenges.

A session with Senator Tom Berryhill representing the 8th District was another highlight. He also spoke about water and transportation, and additionally touched on the challenge of doing business in California today due to high taxes and legislative burdens. Senator Berryhill sees California “hemorrhaging businesses to other states” which is lowering tax revenue and causing talented businesspeople to relocate to other markets across the country.

APRIL 2016

23

C O MMU NI TY DEVELOP MENT

MEDIA DAY

By Sally Gerbo, Owner/Designer, Gerbo Designs

Business promotion and information communication was the name of the game at Media Day for Leadership Modesto.

SALLY GERBO 15/16

Our day began at Never Boring for breakfast and a discussion with Marketing Director - Kit Lloyd about the strengths and weaknesses of a variety of media outlets. Kit shared his expertise and insight when making media buys across radio, television and social media. Maximizing reach and consistency is a strategy for success!

David Jones, Director of Communications and Legislative Affairs for Stanislaus County gave us a whirlwind lesson on how to speak to the media. David advised identifying and organization’s specific message points and how to hone and tailor effective points and soundbites. From a sixty second impromptu life story to a radio interview exercise, Leadership Modesto members caught a glimpse of the pace and urgency the news media operates under.

From Modesto’s major media hub, The Modesto Bee, Editor Joseph Kieta and Senior Editor/Digital Brian Clark, brought us up to speed on the newspaper industry, and the rapid rate it has evolved to a multifaceted

media outlet. While the print readership is strong, online and digital media continue to grow and move forward. The Bee elaborated on the way they keep pace as we toured the news room, received a photo selection demonstration and had a quick chat with opinion editor.

For BREAKING NEWS, Carlos Rodriguez of Central Valley TV described his one man mission to keep us up to date on all the happenings of the central valley. Equipped with scanners and radios, Carlos covers everything from standoffs, chases and emergencies to wonderful acts of heroism and kindness, like the Ceres police department delivering Christmas gifts to children in the community.

Our day wrapped up with a Contentment Health planning meeting. As a group we brainstormed events and story ideas for an upcoming issue. The team explained the thought processes and ideas that go into building a local publication with great aesthetic appeal and community significance!

What a privilege it was to learn from these incredible community leaders as they share information, give us our news and tell out stories. Our Modesto businesses are well served by the range of talent and expertise available to us! P

ANNOUNCEMENTS Modesto Gospel Mission’s Golf For a

Howard Training Center presents Corks & Forks.

Mission Tournament. Apr. 25, 2016 at Spring Creek Golf & Country Club

Proceeds from this event will benefit the programs of Modesto Gospel Mission.

Since 1948, Modesto Gospel Mission has been serving Stanislaus County by providing nutritious meals, warms beds, and a place of safety for thousands of poor and homeless men, women, boys and girls. We also offer a Children and Youth Center open 6 days a week, a high school/GED program, and an employment program that is open to the community.

Registration Fees are $175 for individuals, and $660 for foursomes.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, contact Steffan at 209.225.2951, or by email at Steffan@homelessmission.

24

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Thursday May 12th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Howard Training Center, 1424 Stonum Rd., Modesto.

Enjoy fine wine tasting from various wineries and fantastic hors d’oevres. There will be a silent auction, raffle drawings and door prizes. Proceeds from this event help strengthen the programs offered by Howard Training Center.

For more information contact Geri Lewis at: 209.593.5618 or glewis@howardtrainingcenter.com

WORK IN

a series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies

RAISING HOPE WHILE RAISING AWARENESS

By Noel Daniel United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) was started over 60 years ago by parents whose objective it was to improve their children’s lives. Following that goal, United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus and Tuolumne Counties is a nonprofit organization that advances the independence, productivity and full citizenship of those with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

of activities similar to those of non-disabled adults and is designed to develop and maintain the consumers’ functional skills.”

“[We want] to provide adult day program training experience in the community utilizing natural and generic resources; a program ‘without walls,’” said John Hoskins, Director of Development at UCP of Stanislaus County. “One of the axioms of our mission is to advance the independence of persons with disabilities. The program will provide services that promote members’ ability to be more independent and to move to other appropriately-designed programs.”

“UCP serves people with disabilities wanting to work,” said Hoskins. “Our vision is to assist individuals to achieve their employment goal.

Job Training is a service provided by the UCP staff to individuals identifying the need to improve their skills in a particular employment field.”

UCP was specifically designed to serve those with both developmental disabilities and physical challenges including but not limited to Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down Syndrome, pervasive developmental disorders, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, and many more. United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus County manages this all while retaining approximately 125 members.

The support and aid provided by UCP is varied.

Expanding Horizons, for example, is their community learning program that focuses on how learning experience happens in the community. Skills they help to build include: Safety, mobility training, self and community advocacy, vocational exploration, self sufficiency, and use of community resources.

“Participants in Expanding Horizons must be willing and able to participate in the community to learn and achieve their individualized service plan goals,” Hoskins said. “The specific program curriculum offered to the consumers reflects a pattern

Methods of community inclusion are used to fulfill goals and purpose, and include functional skill building, facilitation, and training.

In addition to serving those with disabilities, UCP also aims to spread awareness.

Steptember is an event in fall where teams from around the world challenge themselves to take 10,000 steps a day all while fundraising.

The day is meant to promote inclusion and understanding of cerebral palsy.

“Steptember was our first attempt at a fund raising program in quite some time,” said Hoskins. “In 2014, we raised $870; 2015 we raised over $12,000. We also are preparing for our very first major fundraiser, a Winemakers' Dinner on Oct. 29 at The Redwood Café.”

Last year, they held World CP Day, Olympic Day, 2015 with over 250 participants, and worked with the Modesto Nuts and Camp Tuolumne Trails.

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT (Courtesy of Never Boring) When business is booming, advertising is the last thing on your mind. But when times get tough, an aggressive ad campaign becomes the last thing you want to spend money on. By maintaining an advertising presence through thick and thin, you can keep your business rolling, stay at the top of your customers’ minds and keep slowdowns to a minimum. Never Boring is an industry expert at creating unique, effective and affordable advertising. Find out how we can keep your business moving forward, visit us today at neverboring.com

B r a n d i n g . S t ra t e g y. D e s i g n .

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS The Chamber stands by this statement.

We practice it on a daily basis. As an organization, we use Chamber Members exclusively. We hope we can ‘count on you’ to practice using Chamber Members to meet all of your business needs.

You can find new and current members online at www.ModChamber.org.

Progress Magazine is the voice of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business publication in Stanislaus County. For more information or advertising info call 209.526.9136.

“Raising awareness in our community of UCP and what we do, raising funds to continue and expand our programs,” said Hoskins.

“Every day, I visit with our members, I watch them grow and learn. I enjoy watching our tremendous staff as they work with our members, it grounds you, it humbles you and it makes you thankful for what you have.” P

APRIL 2016

25

N E TW OR K I NG & REFERRALS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

PLATINUM LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Rabobank

E. & J. Gallo Winery

AT&T

F & M Bank

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

Galletto Ristorante

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Walmart

American Chevrolet

Gianelli & Associates

Rogers Jewelry Company

Walmart Neighborhood Market

American Medical Response

Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc.

Aramark Uniform Services

DIAMOND LEVEL

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Beard Land and Investment Co.

BIAlytics

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

Brightwood College

Doctors Behavioral

Brunn & Flynn

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Grover Landscape Services, Inc. HealthSouth Rehabilitation

of Modesto

San Joaquin Valley College Smile Shine Family Dental Seven Up Bottling Corporation Solecon Industrial Contractors Solar City Solid Networks, Inc.

California State University, Stanislaus

H.M. Clause, Inc.

Stanislaus Distributing

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Care One Home Health

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

Stanislaus Food Products Company

Frito-Lay Company, Inc.

Infiniti of Modesto

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital

MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

Institute of Technology

Storer Coachways

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Central Valley Ag Grinding

International Paper Company

Pacific Southwest Container

Central Valley Autism Project Inc

JS West & Company

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Central Valley Automotive

Mercer Foods

Health Center- DMC

and Hospice, Inc.

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

GOLD LEVEL

Central Valley Nissan

5.11, Inc.

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Bank of the West

Central Valley Medical Group

Crystal Creamery

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

DoubleTree Hotel

Mocse Credit Union

SunOpta Aseptic, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation TSM Insurance Turlock Irrigation District Union Bank

Modesto Commerce Bank

US Bank

Modesto Toyota

Uno Chicago Grill

The Modesto Bee

Valley Children’s Healthcare

Chuckchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Oak Valley Community Bank

Valley First Credit Union

Fiscallini Cheese Company

Clark Pest Control

O’Brien’s Market

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

COIT Services Inc.

Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Memorial Medical Center

Collins Electrical

Panelized Structures Inc.

Modesto Irrigation District

Comcast

Papa John’s

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Concordia Claims Managers

Pepsi Bottling Group

RACOR, Division of Parker

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

PMZ Real Estate

Post Foods, LLC

Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

Hannifin Corporation

Save Mart Supermarkets

Seneca Foods, LLC

DeAngelos Jewelry

Switch to Vapor

Del Monte Foods

Sysco Food Services of

Delta Sierra Beverage

The Eberhardt School of Business

Central California

Taco Bell

Pacher & Silva

Valley Lexus-BMW Vintage Faire Mall W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Insurance Agency

Prime Shine Car Wash Prompt Staffing

D.B.A Courtesy Staffing

English Oaks Nursing &

Rehabilitation Hospital

First Choice Physician Partners

Join us for the

21st ANNUAL AG AWARE LUNCHEON April 15, 2016

Join 500 of Modesto’s prominent agricultural and community leaders to raise funds for Modesto’s Future Farmers of America programs. Proceeds from the Ag Aware Luncheon benefit Modesto area FFA chapters who will be the next generation of leaders in the area’s most prominent industry.

Location: Time:

MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE

11:30 A.M. - 1 P.M.

Tickets:

$25

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS PLEASE CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT 209.577.5757 OR VISIT THE WEBSITE: WWW.MODCHAMBER.ORG

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

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27

A BETTER WAY TO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS

Clear the smoke to lower health care costs Make your business tobacco-free to improve employee health and your bottom line.

Each employee who quits smoking saves you at least $210 in insurance costs almost immediately.* Visit us online to download our tobacco-free campus toolkit, a step-bystep action plan for making your company a smoke-free environment.

Choose better. Choose Kaiser Permanente.

* “Tobacco: The Business of Quitting,�

National Business Group on Health, November 2011.

kp.org/workforcehealth