Progress July 2016

July 2016 Vol. 37 Issue 7 modchamber.org

STAN RISEN Chief Ex. Officer Stanislaus County

JIM HOLGERSSON City Manager

FOCUS ON PREVENTION

aims to improve quality of life in Stanislaus County

GoModesto!

National Night Out

Investing in Children Photo Credit: Studio Warner

BE INDEPENDENT BE COMFORTABLE BE WELCOMED BELONG

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Welcome to a level of service so extraordinary, it has a name: WESTclass.

Independent and Assisted Living Community

3900 Dale Road • Modesto, CA 95356 209.526.2053 www.dalecommons.com RCFE #507004998

HAPPY HOUR! Call to schedule your tour:

209.526.2053

CONTENTS JULY 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 Chairman Eric Tobias, F&M Bank Chairman-Elect Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc. Past Chairman David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum,CPA 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 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 Pete Zahos, Sysco Central California, Inc.

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org Graphic Design: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • www.neverboring.com Printer: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 • mike@theparksgroup.com Distribution: The Parks Group 209.576.2568

LEADERSHIP

4

Message from the CEO

COVER STORY

6

Focus on prevention aims to improve quality of life in Stanislaus County

GUEST COLUMN

8

City Launches New Mobile App, GoModesto!

EDUCATION

14

Investing in children with special needs

NETWORKING & REFERRALS

16

Chamber Calendar

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

22

Leadership Modesto: Infrastructure & Economic Development Day

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.

Welcome Corner

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

LUCIA CAMPOS LEGAL PATHWAYS

Hi, my name is Lucia Campos of Legal Pathways, a locally owned and operated law office focusing on estate planning. I have been a proud member of the Welcome Team for one year and aspire to join the Ambassador Team one day. As a member of the Welcome Team, I have had the opportunity to meet local business owners whether it be via Ribbon Cuttings or Business After Hours events. The experience has not only made a positive impact on our business, but has been an uplifting experience personally. I want to take the opportunity to thank all my fellow Welcome Team members and Modesto Chamber employees for always being so kind, welcoming, and encouraging.

Please join Legal Pathways on July 21 in celebrating our very own Business After Hours and One Year Anniversary event.

If you are interested in finding out more about Legal Pathways please feel free to contact me at 209.529.1085 or lcampos@legalpathways.net. P

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

JULY 2016

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PUBLI C A DVO CACY

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By Cecil Russell, Chamber President and CEO

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The summer of 2016 is speeding by, faster than I remember in years past. It must be because so many good things are happening that it is hard to keep track.

It seems like the planning for Graffiti Summer was just the other day, and all of a sudden we have already had the unveiling of the new Walk of Fame plaques on 10th street. Special thanks to Chris Murphy CECIL RUSSELL for all that he does to celebrate this CHAMBER PRESIDENT important part of our local history. The AND CEO North Modesto Kiwanis Parade and Car Show of 2016 is now history, too. It was the best Parade and Car Show yet; I had the privilege of being a judge for the Car Show and it was very difficult to choose one car out of 1,350 for an award. I settled for a 1972 Chevelle Convertible owned by a local Modesto man. The car was incredible, but the added benefit was the story of the owner. Victor Quinonez was serving our country in the war in Iraq and was on his second tour when he was wounded. For his bravery and service he was awarded a purple heart. He continues to live in Modesto and has restored his car to an award-winning condition. It was with great pleasure that our City Manager Jim Holgersson also selected Victor for the same award. I am very proud to have had the opportunity to meet Victor and thank him for his service to our country. It was a fun-filled week, thank you to the North Modesto Kiwanis.

There are many other Graffiti events happening the rest of the summer, so get out and enjoy these great family outings.

I attended MCCV’s Annual Luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel on May 26 celebrating their 25 years as an organization.

Jennifer Carlson Shipman, MCCV’s Executive Director, does a superb job and interacts with other organizations in our greater community to help develop a better economic environment for our businesses. The keynote speaker at the luncheon was our Assembly Member Kristin Olsen. She spoke about the importance of our manufacturing sector along with our agriculture businesses and how we all need to work to prevent Washington and Sacramento from continuing to enact more regulation that hampers our economic success. She was very inspiring with her message of “Believe in Better.” We need to all work together, believing in better, asking our elected officials and policy makers to develop the “Believe in Better” attitudes and goals.

We are fortunate to have the Manufacturer’s Council of the Central Valley (MCCV ) headquartered here in Modesto.

They are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Their mission is to provide leadership and technical expertise for the manufacturing industry in the Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Merced Counties and region covered by consolidated agencies within the San Joaquin Valley of California. They target initiatives including outreach and education in response to identified challenges and opportunities and provide effective and united advocacy on policy and regulatory issues. They work with many regulatory agencies and projects that include San Joaquin Valley Air District, Don Pedro/La Grange relicensing, California Groundwater Management, Regional Transportation and many others. They also have workforce development and community outreach that include Manufacturing Day tours of Del Monte, Frito Lay, and M&ET; Careers in Manufacturing High School Program, Beyer High Robotics Program, Ceres High Manufacturing Academy & Vocation Advisory Group and Stanislaus Regional Joint Manufacturing & Maintenance Apprenticeship Committee.

Each year’s Leadership class adopts a class project and the class of 2014 raised funds to help complete the downtown 10th street project. They were able to raise funds to pay the city for the trees and floral arrangements in the new planter boxes and to light the trees. It was a great project with great results.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

I along with a number of our board members attended the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Leadership Modesto Graduation ceremony on June 9. The graduates were a great group of participants who are prepared with their completion of the Leadership Modesto course to set out and become future leaders in our community. The keynote speaker at this graduation was Marian Kaanon, the CEO of Stanislaus Community Foundation. Marian shared her life events, the successes and the failures, and spoke to the learning experiences of failures and how they made her stronger and more resilient. Her speech was very inspirational and had a huge impact on this year’s group of graduates. Thank you, Marian.

Two of our members are celebrating anniversaries this year. Nick Sciabica & Sons’ olive oil company is celebrating 80 years, and Prime Shine Express is celebrating 25 years, and MedicAlert Foundation is celebrating 60 years. Congratulations to these great companies. They are locally owned and operated, providing jobs and opportunities for their employees and are all great corporate citizens.

We have a new company opening this August. The company is HealthSouth rehabilitation Hospital of Modesto. Their newly constructed facility is located at the corner of Coffee and Mable in northeast Modesto. Under the leadership of Kay Peck, PhD, they will be providing state of the art care in a very modern setting.

We continue to meet with local leaders, led by StanCog to move forward to ask voters in our county to become a self-help county to leverage our tax dollars to improve our transportation infrastructure. At this writing, all of the cities and county supervisors have come together to 100% support this effort.

With passage of this measure we will be able to repair and maintain our crumbling transportation systems in our county.

We were fortunate enough to be able to attend the ribbon cutting for SR-99/SR-219 Kiernan Avenue Interchange Reconstruction. The project, which was completed on schedule, replaced the old bridge and built new on- and off-ramps to enable more efficient turning movements to and from SR-99.

This also improved the connections at Sisk Road and Salida.

With over 250,000 vehicles on this exchange daily the project is not only able to help with traffic flow, but also the flow of goods and services for the region and state.

The Modesto Chamber’s State of Business and Education event on August 17th is shaping to be our best SBE event yet.

The event will be facilitated by Kristi Marsella, a world class trainer and human resource professional from G3. Please plan to attend and help us bring the community’s business leaders and educators together to help create collective impact that will improve our schools, our workforce, and our community. P

JULY 2016

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{COVER STORY }

{COVER STORY }

FOCUS ON PREVENTION AIMS TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE IN STANISLAUS COUNTY

By Jacqui D. Sinarle

Stanislaus County’s Focus on Prevention is off to a great start.

The initiative—designed to get everyone in the county to work together and improve the quality of life for all of us—has already made progress by uniting diverse stakeholders throughout the county and producing strategies to prevent homelessness.

“Focus on Prevention aims to improve the quality of life of all Stanislaus residents through coordinated prevention efforts that work across multiple sectors,” explained Ruben Imperial, Stanislaus County’s community development and empowerment manager. “Focus on Prevention is building a movement to strengthen Stanislaus County families and the neighborhoods and communities, schools and businesses, and other institutions that help them thrive.”

The initiative focuses resources to prevent conditions that cause residents to struggle with living in Stanislaus County; brings together local organizations and residents to work for change; and facilitates learning and mutual accountability for the betterment of the entire community.

“Since its launch in May 2015, Focus on Prevention has brought together a very broad group of multi-sector leaders and stakeholders to focus on the quality of life for our community,” said Imperial. “We’re now defining the results we’d like to see in our community and how we’ll work together across multiple sectors to achieve these results.”

Although Focus on Prevention was launched by Stanislaus County, the initiative’s ultimate success depends on everyone.

“The county CEO’s office is providing the administrative infrastructure for the project, such as strategic planning, facilitations, and outcomes/data development,” Imperial said.

“Our expectation is that communities will take more and more ownership as the initiative progresses.”

Focus on Prevention is led by a Stewardship Council composed of volunteers from stakeholder groups throughout the community including arts, entertainment and sports; business; education; faith; local government; media; neighborhoods; nonprofits; philanthropy; and health.

“Over the next few months, Stewardship Council members will lead dialogues with sector leaders and residents to solicit feedback and suggestions, and to build shared commitment to effect these results through sustained action,” Imperial said. “By working together across multiple sectors to achieve the results we’ve

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

"…a movement to strengthen Stanislaus County families and the neighborhoods and communities, schools and businesses, and other institutions that help them thrive.”

period. “The next phase will involve strengthening families,” he said.

“Working across sectors will be a learning process for our community,” Imperial reflected. “Often when it comes to addressing these issues, we’ve relied on just a few of the sectors.

Now we’re beginning to see the benefit when we involve leaders and stakeholders across multiple sectors.”

Imperial added that intentional effort and concentrated focus are required to transition from the traditional system which involved many stand-alone, independently operated entities aimed at solving problems on their own, to a new system that involves all entities in a coordinated group effort.

targeted, we will have an impact in strengthening our families and youth, and reducing recidivism and homelessness.”

“Each of us can better understand our roles by engaging in the process and learning from each other,” Imperial added. “This is not just a process where programs will be the focus. This is about figuring out ways that we all can contribute and act together toward the common good of our community.”

Progress has already been made on the first phase of the Focus on Prevention initiative, geared toward preventing homelessness in Stanislaus County.

For information about Focus on Prevention, updates on meetings and a roster of Stewardship Council members, visit www.preventionfocus.net. P

“At the latest count, roughly 1,400 people were homeless in Stanislaus County, including approximately 987 people in Modesto,” Imperial reported.

The Stewardship Council and County Board of Supervisors have endorsed a plan created by the Homeless Action Council that outlines strategies to combat homelessness in Stanislaus County, and the county has hired a housing and supportive services manager to coordinate implementation of the plan.

“We’ve already begun work on developing a coordinated access system for people who are homeless in Stanislaus County,” Imperial said. “This system will include a centralized assessment process that integrates public and community-based support resources and providers, and a county-wide housing inventory database.”

“We are also developing an outreach and engagement team that will work with neighborhoods and communities in a coordinated and strategic way and search out people in need,” Imperial noted.

Imperial pointed out that Focus on Prevention is a long-term plan expected to gain effectiveness and momentum over a ten-year

MAY 2016

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GUEST COLUMN CI T Y L A U N C H E S NEW MO BI LE A PP, GO MO DES TO !

By Amy Vickery, Public Information Off icer, City of Modesto

The City of Modesto recently launched the GoModesto! mobile app in order to better serve today’s mobile-focused resident base. Because we are a society that expects immediate access to information and two-way communication, it is important that the city provides services that reflect our understanding of that culture shift and that we honor our strategic commitment to effective, responsive, and transparent government.

We are working in new ways to leverage technology, maximize efficiency, and improve services in a variety of ways.

The GoModesto! app allows us to meet citizens where they are, be a more relevant organization, and be more innovative in our approach to supporting our residents’ needs. App features include translation into twenty two different languages to serve the diversity within our community. We’ve selected a format that is easy to navigate

and intuitive. It offers residents the ability to connect instantly and directly to city services. GoModesto! makes it easy to report a street light that is out, street flooding, illegal dumping, vandalism, broken playground equipment, tagging, potholes, and more straight from your smart phone. The service request feature allows users to submit a photograph of their concern with GIS tracking capabilities to tell city staff where the issue is located for efficient resolution and helps us better understand customer needs. The app even notifies users once the job is done!

Customer convenience was front-of-mind in development. Users will find easy access to much of what they look for now on our website, including a link to City of Modesto employment opportunities, social media, announcements about important upcoming events, and push notifications in an emergency for those who chose to register.

Even bus transit routes and schedules are found on the home screen.

Civic engagement was another important goal. The GoModesto! app also allows us to engage our residents in problem solving by welcoming bright ideas for innovation that can be submitted through the app. One of the best features is the connection to City Leadership at your fingertips. All Modesto City Council Members’ photos, bios, and contact information are built into the app. Residents with a pressing issue can email or call their council member from the app.

GoModesto! is an exciting new communication tool by Public Stuff that allows City residents to easily connect with government services. It is intuitive and convenient for those of us always on the go. Search for “GoModesto!” The app is downloadable for free and available now in the Apple store and Google Play store.

We want to know what you think! Email us at GoModesto@Modestogov.com and share your thoughts.

City Services Mobile App Download the GoModesto!

App TODAY

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

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State of Business and Education Bridging The Gap Between Business and Education As a leader in our business community, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce invites you to join an important conversation at the State of Business and Education (SBE) event on August 17. At this unique event we’ll be taking concrete steps to better prepare students as well as future and current employees for their next steps in life. You will leave the meeting informed on how to become an advocate for this important work and motivated to take action as an individual and with your business colleagues. Through this event and additional efforts with our partners, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce intends to better align business and education in creating a highly-skilled workforce, embracing youth and young adults in finding a successful path, and enhancing strong partnerships.

AUGUST 17, 2016 Tickets available | 209.577.5757 | modchamber.org

JULY 2016

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EDI TO RIAL

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

By Community Service Officer Rosie Garcia & Stephany Valadez, Modesto Police Department

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods a safer, better place to live. National Night Out is celebrated annually on the f irst Tuesday of August. This year, National Night Out is Tuesday, Aug. 2.

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. This event provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

National Night Out was founded by the National Association of Town Watch in 1983. National Association of Town Watch is the nation’s premier nonprof it crime prevention organization dedicated to the development and promotion of crime prevention in communities across the nation. National Association of Town Watch recognizes cities for their efforts to promote National Night Out. Modesto was recognized in 2015 as second in California among cities with like populations and sixth in the nation.

Throughout the nation, along with the traditional ‘lights on’ and front porch vigils, there are thousands of block parties, cookouts, parades, ice cream socials, neighborhood f lashlight walks, safety fairs, poster and essay contests, and neighborhood meetings. There are also visits by law enforcement agencies, City Off icials, Fire Department, City Departments such as Parks and Recreation and other events and activities that celebrate the spirit of National Night Out. Modesto is very fortunate to have a strong community partnership with neighborhood watch groups, church groups, and businesses to promote and celebrate National Night Out. It is rewarding to our off icers and the community to be able to get together and visit with each other at block parties meeting one-on-one to build relationships.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

There are several events leading up to National Night Out where we promote being a good neighbor and watching out for each other such as Dog Walker Watch on June 24, Moband Concert in the Park July 7, Safety Fairs, Town Hall Meetings, Coffee with the Cops, and Neighborhood Watch meetings.

In 2015 Modesto residents hosted 174 parties with 447 neighborhoods joining together. Modesto is a “City of Great Neighbors” whose residents are very familiar with National Night Out and the enthusiasm seems to be growing more and more every year. We are also seeing more residents have parties at their neighborhood parks. This is great because it then encompasses the neighbors from several streets around the park thus making a positive impact on the neighborhood growing stronger ties and interest in neighborhood watch.

A good neighbor is the best crime prevention tool you have because when neighbors know each other they are more apt to keep an eye out for one another. So get busy and schedule a neighborhood watch meeting and register your neighborhood for a National Night Out Party. Together we can make a difference!

To contact Modesto Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit, call Rosie Garcia 209.572.9636 or email rogarcia@ modestopd.com. Call Stephany Valadez 209.572.9639 or email valadezs @modestopd.com by July 17 to register your National Night Out party or to organize a neighborhood watch meeting. P

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN When they do, Burnside is here to walk you through the entire process. To us you’re not just a customer, you’re a neighbor.

Burnside Body Shop.

We can fix that.

YOUR COMMUNITY | OUR COMMUNITY | SINCE 1990 209.521.6570 | BURNSIDEBODYSHOP.COM | LIKE US ON:

PROGRESS T O S UC C E S S

Reach t he r i ght peopl e. Our audi ence i s com pr ised of St ani s l aus Count y ’s t op deci s i on m aker s and t hous ands of l ocal bus i nes s es .

A dv er t i s i ng w i t h Progres s Magazi ne, t he Modes t o Cham ber of Com m erce’s aw ard- w i nni ng publ i cat i on, i s bot h affordabl e and put s y our ad i n t he r i ght hands .

A D V E RT IS E N OW cal l : 2 0 9 - 5 2 6 - 9 1 3 6 or e- m ai l : progres s @ nev er bor i ng. com

JULY 2016

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N E T W ORK I NG & REFERRALS

Please Join Us for Business Before Hours July 14 at 7:30 a.m.

{ JULY } BUSINESS

BEFORE HOU R S

Business Before hosted by:

INTER-FAITH MINISTRIES 120 KERR AVE. Inter-Faith Ministries of Greater Modesto (IFM) has been serving low-income families in Stanislaus County for over 40 years. We provide healthy food to those in need through our Feed Modesto Pantry, Free Mobile Farmers Market, Homebound Delivery Service and more. We also provide clothes for infants through adults at no cost in our clothes closet, which was recently remodeled by the 2016 Leadership Modesto Class.

IFM focuses on imbuing every aspect of our services with dignity. We empower our clients with choices and recently made the change to healthier foods across all programs in order to honor our purpose of contributing to their lives in a positive way. The majority of those we serve are children. With the importance of early nutrition in mind, we are making strides to provide more fresh fruits and vegetables, and more real foods, with less sugar, less sodium, and less processing.

We feed Modesto.

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

{ JULY } BUSINESS

AFTER HOU R S

Business After hosted by:

LEGAL PATHWAYS 908 13TH ST.

Yup, we shoot just about anything!

Call 209.544.6511 for creative images for your personal or advertising needs.

Look us up on Facebook

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

www.studiowarner.com

Legal Pathways is the law office of attorney Julie Richardson (Cal graduate, attorney for 14 years) and her Legal Secretary/Client Services Director Lucia Campos. Legal Pathways focuses exclusively on estate planning, providing you with the peace of mind that knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of when you are gone. Julie and Lucia will walk you through the process, making sure that all of your questions are answered and that you feel comfortable with your plan. All of our work is done on a flat-fee basis and meeting with us is always free of charge. Please feel free to call us at 209.529.1085 to set up your free one to two hour Planning Session. We are celebrating our one year anniversary at Legal Pathways at our Business After Hours on July 21 and we hope to see you there! P

NEW LOOK, MORE LOCATIONS,

BETTER THAN EVER!

As a growing leader in healthcare, Golden Valley Health Centers wanted a new look that reflects our connection to our patients and community. With new health centers opening in Ceres and Empire and a convenient new call center in Atwater, we’re expanding in ways that are “better than ever”! We CARE for you.

SE HABLA ESPAÑOL 866.682.4842 gvhc.org

| Golden Valley Health Centers is a non-profit organization

Kenneth C. Cochrane Partner

We are pleased to announce that Betty L. Julian has joined Kenneth C. Cochrane in his ranks as a Family Law Specialist certified by the State of California Board of Legal Specialization.

Betty L. Julian Partner

Divorce Happens

Fighting for you, because your family, your future and your peace of mind matter.

Divorce Division of Assets & Debts Move AwAy cAses

chilD custoDy & visitAtion Pre & Post M AritAl AgreeMents guArDiAnshiPs

chilD & sPousAl suPPort MeDiAtions/A rbitrAtions DoMestic violence cAses

(209) 524-1100

1125 I Street, Modesto, CA. www.McCormickBarstow.com/Family-Law

Call On Us To Fight For You JULY 2016

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EDUCATION I N V E S T I N G I N CHI LDREN WI TH S PECI A L NEEDS

By Sarah Grantano, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Stanislaus County Off ice of Education

If you have concerns about the way your vehicle is functioning, you might take it to a trusted and skilled mechanic for a diagnostic and plan for repair. If you have concerns about your health, you may schedule an appointment with your doctor, trusting that an exam, labs and/or medical testing will reveal a diagnosis that may result in a scribe to regain your health. Likewise, if a parent is concerned about their child’s development, a parent should take their child to a developmental specialist or an educational specialist that is trained in diagnosing developmental delays and that can assist in writing goals to promote academic development.

the cost of a student that is not receiving special education services.

Many people may wonder, since we hear how expensive special education is, why would we “advertise” the need to intervene with special education services. The answer is simply the power and efficiency of the investment. The return on investment is proven over time, and by national and local statistics that show the benefit of effective intervention and the decreased need for intensive services over a lifetime. In addition, if you speak with any parent of a child with Autism, you will likely hear that this investment is critically important and significantly meaningful.

Not all students with a diagnosis of Autism are eligible for special education services, but if educational eligibility is identified, a team comes together to write a plan. The team specifically identifies the areas of need and designs a plan to assist the child in making gains in areas that are delayed, targeting how the child’s needs will be addressed in an educational setting.

In Stanislaus County, 59 percent of students in special education (ages three through 22) with a primary diagnosis of Autism are younger than the age of nine. The critical window of intensified intervention during the early years of development (before age six), leads to a higher degree of independence and maximized outcomes.

According to the regionalized report dated May 9, for the Stanislaus County SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Agency), 84 percent of students served in a special day class are in preschool or primary grades. The SELPA regionalized providers operate only four intermediate special day classes and just one junior high special day class to support students with Autism. The reason for the decline at this level of service is the success rate of intervention and targeted programming that allows opportunities for growth and development, leading children to less restrictive environments in general education settings.

The importance of early identification and intervention is paramount, especially when it comes to Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by deficits in communication, social skills, and behavior that can span a “spectrum” of symptoms—from mild to severe. The reason this is significant is that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the number of children identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder is 1 in 68. Autism is 4.5 times more common among boys (1 in 42) than among girls (1 in 189). The California Department of Education reports that approximately 12.6 percent of students receiving special education services in California have a primary disability of Autism. In Stanislaus County, it is reportedly near the same percentage.

The National Education Association (NEA) and California Legislative Analyst’s office estimates that the average cost per student receiving special education services is more than double

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Although there is no cure for Autism, research shows that early intervention services and effective educational strategies can improve a child’s development long term and are a worthy return on investment. P

N ETW ORKIN G & REFERRALS

NEW MEMBERS PROFILE

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

Lock-n-Load VSR is the first Use of Force Shooting Simulator

CHAMBER DISCOVERIES

open to the general public in our area. We offer state-of-theart technology for enhancing your firearms training. Originally designed for military and law enforcement training, our simulators offer the same kind of shoot/no shoot scenarios. We also have paper and steel targets, timed targets, and other skill-building tools, along with a virtual shooting gallery for those looking for entertainment. Most of us are NRA instructors, former military, and/or former law enforcement. P

Ms. Cynthia Wendell-Lemmons 1855 East Keyes Rd. Ceres, CA 95307 866.295.1283 www. adelmandiscoveries.com

www.locknloadvsr.com 209.857.8795

UNITED SITE SERVICES Ms. Rocio Santillan 1101 Sylvan Ave., #B32 Modesto, CA 95350 www.unitedservices.com

ZENTIV AGENCY Ms. Britta Foster 819 4th St. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707.360.1442 www.zentivagency.com

Š Modesto Irrigation District

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

Lighting rebates

HVAC rebates

High efficiency motor rebates

JULY 2016

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CHAMBER CALENDAR JULY 2016 6 20

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

AUGUST 2016 3 17

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

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BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

15

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

Inter-Faith Ministries 120 Kerr Ave. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

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

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BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

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STATE OF BUSINESS & EDUCATION

18

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

18

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

19

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

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

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

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AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM*

Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Legal Pathways 908 13th St. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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

We want to welcome one of our newest members

Sandude Brewing Co. Please join us at their ribbon cutting, TUESDAY, JULY 19 AT 4 P.M.

New Modesto Location!

1028 11th Street

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

American Chevrolet 4742 McHenry Ave. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Martin Petersen Center 720 12th St. 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus County 4265 Spyres Wy., #2 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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

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Join Us

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

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

MARKETING

GRAPHIC DESIGN

ADVERTISING WEB DESIGN

CUSTOM SIGNS & FLEET GRAPHICS FILM & MULTIMEDIA SOCIAL MEDIA

PUBLICATIONS PR

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JUNE 2016

17

C O M MU NI TY D EVELO PMENT

ANNOUNCEMENTS Computer Tutor Business and Technical Institute has been awarded Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds which will be available July 2016!

The grant provides career training or paid work experience opportunities for individuals that are 17 to 24 years old (up to their 25th birthday.) This wonderful opportunity is available to any person who is able to meet eligibility requirements and lives in Stanislaus County. Anyone who qualifies for the grant will receive training and job placement assistance at no cost!

55 thAnnual

Harvest Luncheon September 16, 2016 MJC ACE Ag Pavilion, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES & TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE www.modchamber.org or 209.577.5757

Career training focuses on one of three areas: Medical Clerk, Accounting Clerk, and Administrative Assistant. The paid work experience program is a fantastic opportunity for young adults with little to no work history to gain real-world job experience while earning income.

Potential candidates are encouraged to contact the school promptly, as the program will fill quickly. Courses are offered at the college's campus at 4300 Sisk Rd. For more information, please call the admissions office at 209.545.5200 or visit www.computertutor.com/grant. P

Sierra Vista Child & Family Services Hearts For Children Gala Plans are underway for Sierra Vista’s 16th Annual Hearts for Children Gala on Saturday, Sept.

24, at the home of Dr. Stephen and Ann Endsley. This highly anticipated event will inspire you to “forget about your worries and your strife” as the theme of The Jungle Book comes alive! This jungle adventure is waiting for you as our friends, business, and community partners come together to support us in our efforts to create a brighter future for the 20,000 children and families that we serve within our community each year.

By supporting this event, you are directly impacting the lives of thousands of local children and families. You are offering a child who has been abused or neglected an opportunity to sustain a brighter future, you are helping to support a struggling mom and dad to ensure they can properly provide for their children and family, and you are offering a safe and loving home for our foster youth. All of the funds raised from this event will assist us in seeking out and providing for these and so much more.

For more information regarding the Gala, please contact Marilyn Jacobs at 209.523.4573 or mjacobs@sierravistacares.org or go online www.sierravistacares.org today. With our determination and your compassion we can give hope to children and families. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Stanislaus County Sheriff

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Keeping the Peace since

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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

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

We’re Expanding!

APS Welcomes Jeanne Albright Human Resource Strategic Consultant

As a Strategic HR Consultant, Jeanne brings over 15 years of strategic HR experience at Hewlett-Packard and Hitachi Data Systems, where her experience and practical knowledge will enable Central Valley businesses to adopt HR practices that increase business proďŹ tability

Follow us on: PGC2016

JULY 2016

19

C O MMU NI TY DEVELOP MENT

INFRASTRUCTURE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DAY

By Kelsey Gowans, Resource Analyst, Modesto Irrigation District

The 2015-2016 Leadership Modesto class wrapped up the year learning about the city’s current infrastructure and future plans for development and growth.

We started the day at MID, where the Interim General Manager, Greg Salyer, explained the District’s water and power operations. Not only does MID provide electricity to over 118,000 customers, KELSEY GOWANS 15/16 but also provides irrigation water to over 60,000 acres. Our class was then given a tour of MID’s Control Room, where we saw f irsthand how control staff monitors the electric system, plans for expected customer usage, and responds to emergencies.

From MID we walked over to City Hall where Traff ic Engineer, David Eshoo, gave us a tour of the traff ic control room. He explained how the system is constantly monitored, and updates multiple times per day to ensure that it is in sync.

He also gave us tips on how to trigger the lights if you’re alone at an intersection.

Following the traff ic tour, we moved to the Council Chambers to hear from the Downtown Modesto Partnership’s Josh Bridegroom about the development of Downtown Modesto.

Josh explored the evolution of Modesto’s downtown area, and shared his plans for a more robust downtown experience.

After his presentation, we heard from a panel on potential residential development in Downtown Modesto where we learned about the different challenges facing the downtown area. We wrapped up the morning with a group activity where we were challenged to design our ideal downtown area.

Though the class loved including a lot of housing, nightlife, and even a ferris wheel, I think we got a good sense of how diff icult it would be to actually implement our plans.

After lunch at Galletto’s, we headed back to the Council Chambers where we participated in a planning commission simulation. Each group was assigned a role and the class got a feel for planning commission meetings, where diverse groups share their opinions on pending projects.

The day wrapped up with a hot topics panel from local leaders, where we discussed topics such as the ACE Train, Salida Annexation, and the importance of government to work together on all levels.

Thank you to our day chairs, Melissa Williams, Josh Bridegroom, and Ryan Swehla, for putting together such an interactive, informational day! It was a great way to wrap up our year! P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

The Leadership Modesto Class working hard to design the perfect downtown.

WORK IN

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

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS HELP YOUTH ACHIE VE THEIR POTENTIAL

By Jacqui D. Sinarle The Boys & Girls Clubs of Stanislaus County have been providing valuable and fun programs for local kids since 2013 and they just keep getting better.

“The Boys & Girls Clubs change the lives of children and teens, especially those who need us most, by providing a safe, positive, and engaging environment, and by offering programs that prepare and inspire them to achieve great futures and reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens,” explained Lincoln Ellis, President/ Chief Professional Officer.

“Our membership has grown from 277 in 2013 to more than 800 today,” Ellis continued, “and our mentoring and tutoring programs have helped many students with regular club attendance to improve in one or more core subjects.”

Parent response has been positive as well.

“According to our latest survey, 80 percent of parents felt their child’s academic performance improved due to club participation, 95 percent were satisfied or extremely satisfied with the Boys & Girls Club staff at their site, and 85 percent were very or extremely satisfied with their child’s experience as a club member,” Ellis said.

He added that BGCStan’s success is a group effort.

“We have an engaged board, professional staff, and a passionate and supportive community of parents, donors, and community stakeholders,” Ellis noted. “Our Parent Group has brought many parents closer to their children and contributes more than 1,800 volunteer hours annually.”

BGCStan originally opened with sites at Sylvan and C.F. Brown Elementary Schools.

The Somerset Club was added at Somerset Middle School in 2014, and in 2015 the West Modesto Club opened at King-Kennedy Memorial Center and services were added at Prescott Middle School. This fall, services will be expanded at Prescott and a new modular facility at Mellis Park will house the West Modesto Club.

Programs for youth ages six to 18 are provided in five core areas: character and leadership development; education and career development; the arts; health and life skills; and sports, fitness and recreation.

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

“Our SMART Moves program assists young people in resisting alcohol and gateway drugs, as well as premature sexual activity,” Ellis observed. “Passport to Manhood and SMART Girls both offer mentoring and promote healthy lifestyles, self-esteem, and positive decision making, while the Graduate for Más program engages eighth grade students as they transition into the ninth grade and includes career preparation, college tours, and study skills.”

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS

“Our vision is to provide a club experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle,” Ellis said.

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.

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.

For more information, to make a donation or to volunteer with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Stanislaus County, visit www.bgcstanislaus.org. P

JULY 2016

21

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

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

F & M Bank

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

American Chevrolet

Galletto Ristorante

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Walmart

American Medical Response

Gianelli & Associates

Rogers Jewelry Company

Walmart Neighborhood Market

Aramark Uniform Services

Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc.

San Joaquin Valley College

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Golden Valley Health Centers

DIAMOND LEVEL

Brightwood College

Bank of the West

Brunn & Flynn

Beard Land and Investment Co.

California State University, Stanislaus

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

Care One Home Health

Doctors Behavioral

and Hospice, Inc.

Health Center- DMC

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Central Valley Ag Grinding

Frito-Lay Company, Inc.

Central Valley Automotive

MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.

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

of Modesto

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

Save Mart Supermarkets Smile Shine Family Dental Seven Up Bottling Corporation Solecon Industrial Contractors Solar City Solid Networks, Inc. Stanislaus Distributing

Infiniti of Modesto

Stanislaus Food Products Company

Institute of Technology

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

International Paper Company

Storer Coachways

Central Valley Nissan

JS West & Company

SunOpta Aseptic, Inc.

Pacific Southwest Container

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Maxx Value Foods

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Central Valley Medical Group

Mercer Foods

TSM Insurance

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

Mocse Credit Union

GOLD LEVEL

Chuckchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Modesto Commerce Bank

5.11, Inc.

Clark Pest Control

Modesto Toyota

Crystal Creamery

COIT Services Inc.

The Modesto Bee

DoubleTree Hotel

Collins Electrical

Oak Valley Community Bank

Fiscallini Cheese Company

Comcast

Memorial Medical Center

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

O’Brien’s Market

Modesto Irrigation District

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

RACOR, Division of Parker

DeAngelos Jewelry

Del Monte Foods

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Hannifin Corporation

Pacher & Silva

Seneca Foods, LLC

Delta Sierra Beverage

Switch to Vapor

The Eberhardt School of Business

Sysco Food Services of

English Oaks Nursing &

Central California

Taco Bell

Rehabilitation Hospital

First Choice Physician Partners

Turlock Irrigation District Union Bank US Bank Uno Chicago Grill Valley Children’s Healthcare Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW

Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Vintage Faire Mall

Panelized Structures Inc.

W.H. Breshears, Inc.

Papa John’s

Warden’s Office Products Center

Pepsi Bottling Group

Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet

PMZ Real Estate

Wells Fargo Bank

Post Foods, LLC

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Prime Shine Car Wash Prompt Staffing

Insurance Agency

Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

D.B.A Courtesy Staffing

Food Maxx

Harvest Luncheon Committee We are looking for people wanting to get involved with the committee and the event.

The next meeting is July 5th at 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber!

For more Information please contact

Cheryl Foote

209.577.5757 • cfoote@ Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

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