Progress October

October 2016 Vol. 37 Issue 10 modchamber.org

VOTE NOW 2016

ELECTION EDITI

Vote Yes on L

ON

100 Day Report

Road Trip

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CONTENTS OCTOBER 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.

LEADERSHIP

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Message from the CEO

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Executive Committee Chairman Eric Tobias, F&M Bank

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Chairman-Elect Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.

VOTE 2016 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Vote Yes on L 100 Day Report

EDUCATION

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Past Chairman David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO

Road Trip

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.

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 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 Pete Zahos, Sysco Central California, Inc. 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

Ambassador Corner

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

TRISH BARKMAN BRANCH MANAGER, F&M BANK

Hello, my name is Trish Barkman and I am a branch manager at F&M Bank, a locally owned and operated community bank. I have served the Modesto market for the past 27 years as a banking manager. I joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Welcome Team over a year ago and have recently taken on a role as one of the Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. As a member of the welcome team, I have enjoyed attending Ribbon Cuttings, Business Before Hours, Business After Hours and Showcase Your Business, in addition to all the other events that the chamber hosts for local businesses. Attending these events has given me the opportunity to meet business owners, their team, gain insight into the products and services they’re offering the local community and visit businesses that normally I wouldn’t get to visit. I would love to see more local businesses take advantage of all the wonderful things the Chamber of Commerce has to offer, and as an Ambassador, I look forward to helping our members take advantage of the benefits that they receive with their membership. If you want more information, you can contact me at 209.571.4041; stop by 3500 Dale Rd.; or via email at tbarkman@fmbonline.com P

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

OCTOBER 2016

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P U B L I C A DV OCACY

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By Chamber President and CEO, Cecil Russell

We had a very successful Harvest Luncheon this past month. The committee decided to move the event after 54 years from Graceada Park downtown Modesto to MJC’s ACE Ag Pavilion. Thanks to Doctors Medical Center and all of our sponsors; we were able to raise over $20,000 for the Voss-Berryhill Modesto Junior College Ag Scholarship Program.

election. You may find the reprints helpful for the runoff next month.

The key item on the ballot for all of Stanislaus County is Measure L. Stanislaus County is a wonderful community in which to work and raise a family. However, our local road conditions are becoming worse every year. Local roads and highways that are afflicted with cracks, potholes, and unsafe conditions threaten the safety and quality of life of our residents. They also cost businesses that depend on goods movement significant amounts in fleet repairs.

Our speaker was John Aguirre, President of California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG). John is responsible for CAWG’s Board of Directors, federal legislation, pests and disease programs, sustainability, and trade policy. He was very informative and spoke to the ever-growing threat to our agricultureal health by the bureaucracy that exists in our state government. He spoke to the recent legislation to raise wages and overtime pay. His point was that they either don’t understand or don’t care about the agricultural impact on our economy.

Measure L on this November’s countywide ballot will help fix our streets and roads and help improve our local economy at the same time.

CECIL RUSSELL CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO

To compound his concerns, his presentation comes on the heels of the State Water Resource Board decision to raise the mandated unrestricted water flows on the Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and Merced rivers to 40 percent. These decisions to raise wages and take more of our water without regard to the economic impact on our farmers, businesses and our citizens is potentially devastating to our area.

We as businesses, and other Chambers of Commerce’s need to band together with Assemblyman Gray and our other state elected officials, MID, TID, OID boards, and city governments to combat this “water grab.” The State Water Resources Control Board, after nearly four years, released its revised environmental document that will raise the mandated unimpaired flows to 40 to 50 percent. They would rather put poor science for the so-called protection of fish in front of our people and our economic livelihood. Please join the fight by sending an email to Stop The Regulatory Drought: to www.stoptheregulatorydrought.com. Please read the article in this issue of Progress previously released by Kristen Olsen and Adam Gray and printed in the Modesto Bee on Sunday 18.

We will be producing our second annual Central Valley Business Summit in Modesto on Oct. 25. The Central Valley Business Summit was developed to inspire and bring value to executives in our community. Our goal is to serve individuals and companies across all sectors that share the common objectives to grow their business and to hone their leadership skills. The conference will include exhibitors, a panel discussion, breakout sessions and keynote speaker Nir Eyal, the author of Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products. He has taught at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and Design School. He has sold two technology companies since 2003 and now helps teams design more engaging products. The event will be at Modesto Centre Plaza on Tues., Oct. 25.

In our last issue of Progress, we published a list of local businesses that have been in Modesto for over 20 years. We will be listing more businesses in this issue of Progress and will continue to honor our businesses over the coming months.

The election is just around the corner. We have republished information from our May issue that provided information from the June primary

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Measure L would implement a half-cent sales tax dedicated to transportation. It would make Stanislaus a “self help” county, which would then qualify us for millions in state and federal matching funds.

Every resident will benefit from the improvements to be funded by this measure, because the expenditure plan provides money to fix our roads, fill potholes, improve busy intersections, ensure safe routes for children to walk and bike to school, and shorten emergency response times.

The measure protects voters and our precious tax dollars by requiring elected officials to report to a citizens oversight committee that will watchdog expenditures. The committee will ensure that the money is only spent on projects designated in the plan, and make sure that not one dollar generated by this measure is taken by the state of California.

PLEASE VOTE YES ON MEASURE L.

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SOME OF OUR OUR MOST PROMINENT & SUCCESSFUL MEMBERS

1901

Crystal Creamery

1938 Sysco

1942

Freese & Gianelli

1945

Winton Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency

1953

Slater’s Home Furnishing

1960

Union Bank

1963

Delta Sierra Beverage

1971

Marcella’s Restaurant

1974

The Parks Group

1977

Modesto Veterinary Hospital dba Standiford Veterinary Center

1979

Bank of the West

1981

Sky Trek Aviation

1983

Modesto Chiropractic Center Never Boring

1991

Walmart

DON’T SEE YOUR BUSINESS YET? LET US KNOW HOW LONG YOU HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED! EMAIL NATALIE NIELSEN AT NNIELSEN@MODCHAMBER.ORG

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce asks that you exercise your right to vote in the upcoming election; there has been plenty of fanfare surrounding candidates and issues. You know that voting is the very cornerstone of our democracy and that the role of the chamber is simply to shed light on candidates and issues that seek to advance the mission and vision of the business community.

The chamber chose to highlight several of these candidates and issues when it began reporting on the elections with the primaries held this past June. Many candidates were previously interviewed and featured, and have subsequently won their elections; the chamber looks forward to working closely with Supervisors DeMartini, Chiesa, and Olsen.

The chamber interviewed candidates for Assembly and feels strongly that either run-off candidate–Heath Flora or Ken Vogel– would be outstanding advocates for District 12.

There are several other local races that will be decided on Nov. 8, and although a few of them have impressive opponents, the chamber believes the incumbents have worked tremendously well with the chamber and the business community and deserve another term in office.

Modesto-area voters will be interested in primarily one Stanislaus County ballot measure and that is the Measure L Transportation Tax. The chamber emphatically endorses this initiative, though there’s more on that in another article in this month’s Progress Magazine.

For those of you who may have missed the candidate questionnaire and responses from the two run-off candidates for State Assembly– District 12, Heath Flora and Ken Vogel–they are reprinted to the right for your review. P

OCTOBER 2016

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Following is a list of local candidates for federal and state offices.

Incumbents are listed first and in bold print.

U.S. Representative – District 10 Jeff Denham (R) Michael Eggman (D) CA State Senate – District 5 Cathleen Galgiani (D) Alan Nakanishi (R)

* This publication includes the individuals who fully complied during our process. All answers are direct quotes from the candidates.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Describe ways in which you, as a member of the legislature, would encourage a collaborative and cooperative relationship with other units of local government.

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What role does the legislature have in local economic development? How can the assembly best support the growth and retention of jobs?

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Should the business community be concerned with the current state of water issues in your district? With you in the legislature, how can the community rest assured that you are best aligned to address water issues?

CA State Assembly – District 12 Heath Flora (R) Ken Vogel (R) CA State Assembly – District 21 Adam Gray (D) Greg Opinski (R)

What are the qualifications that propel you as the ideal candidate for state office? How would you suggest the residents of your district gauge your job performance?

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How do you believe your district should prioritize local transportation funds to ensure citizens and businesses have an efficient multimodal transportation system?

How can the state and your local district work together to ensure that ideal system?

What steps will you go through in reviewing the state’s annual budget proposed by the Governor? If a balanced budget is important to you, how will you prioritize funding?

CA S TATE SENATE – DISTRICT 5 : S E NATO R CAT H L E E N G A L G I AN I

1:

I’m proud to have served the people of Stanislaus County for close to ten years in elective office, as an Assemblymember and Senator.

I chair the Senate Agriculture committee where I’ve worked hand-in-hand with local farmers and statewide agriculture organizations to help promote and grow California’s $54 billion dollar agriculture economy and to protect our water rights.

I also currently serve on the senate committees on Banking and Financial Institutions; Business Professions, and Economic Development; Government Organization; Transportation and Housing; and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee.

I and my Valley colleagues have set an example of working in a bi-partisan manner to best serve our districts. We managed to craft and pass a water bond measure to store more of our valuable water resources and build the dams that are needed to ease the effects of this drought and better prepared us for future droughts.

2:

I have consistently advocated that the legislature take into account local needs and that one-size-fits-all state policies often put our communities at a disadvantage. I have a long record of working with the counties, cities, and other local government entities in my district and my fellow legislators on local priorities.

This is exemplified this past year with the “Negative Bailout” fix for Stanislaus County. The Bailout was a post-Proposition 13 action taken by the state that had an unexpected negative on six counties, costing the county up to $3.4 million in annual revenues. Working with local government officials and fellow legislators, we were able to obtain enough votes to pass the measure on the last day of the session. As a result, Stanislaus County will have more than $6 million in additional revenues each year. This is just one example of what we can accomplish when we work together.

3:

The legislature can aid local economic development and growing and retaining jobs by establishing a stable and predictable tax

system, reducing regulatory hurdles and making investments in infrastructure.

Last year I was recognized by the California Taxpayers Association, receiving a 100 percent rating on tax policy legislation. Holding the line on wasteful tax policies and building up the state’s rainy day reserve are important policies which I continue to support.

Creating a sensible regulatory environment is key to job growth. I co-authored a new law that streamlined environmental reviews on major infrastructure projects to improve the job market.

Reducing frivolous lawsuits is especially critical for local small businesses. This year the governor signed a new law that I co-authored that increases protections against costly, predatory lawsuits over minor violations of disabled access laws. The new law allows businesses to make minor and technical fixes to avoid penalties.

4:

My district is ground zero for the state’s water issues and we should all be concerned.

The Delta starts in Stanislaus County and runs through most of San Joaquin County. MID and TID are threatened with increased unrestricted flows by the State Water Board supposedly to improve salmon runs and provide more water for the Delta. At the same time the Governor with the Water Board are proposing to build tunnels to have Sacramento River water by-pass the Delta on its way south.

In addition to this and the drought, the state is mandating that we make our underground aquifers sustainable but they refuse to recognize the need to use surface water from the Tuolumne and Stanislaus Rivers to recharge the aquifers.

All of these issues are current and I will continue to strongly represent our interests.

I and my Valley colleagues were instrumental in getting $2.7 billion committed to water storage in the 2014 Water Bond. Now we must work to make sure that those funds are used for storage projects that benefit our area.

5:

The recession and reduced state and local transportation income have taken a toll on local road maintenance and I understand the need to address the crumbling roads through current state funding and any local funding mechanism.

I think we all know that we need improvements to Hwy. 99 and other goods movement and commuter corridors. I worked with local legislators to have $1 billion earmarked for Hwy. 99 in the last Transportation Bond and we need to seek new funding to do further improvements to 99 as well as the east to west highways.

To relieve commuter traffic from Merced to Sacramento and Manteca to the East Bay, we need to improve our regional rail systems. I carried the legislation which enabled the creation of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) with a board made up of local elected officials which has now taken over the operation of the San Joaquin Amtrak.

Recently I and my colleagues were able to get a commitment from the state to prioritize bringing ACE Rail to Modesto and to release planning funding to make improvements to the Merced to Sacramento Amtrak.

6:

Balancing the state budget has and will continue to be a priority along with paying off debt and building a substantial rainy day fund. At around $6.7 billion dollars, our reserve fund is still short of meeting the ten percent of expenditures goal. Too often the legislature has contributed to the boom and bust cycle of the state’s budget putting our economic vitality at stake.

Getting our fair share of resources is a constant battle for the Valley and I work closely with my Valley colleagues to invest in education and our infrastructure to ensure that we have the transportation network and water facilities needed for our local economy. Taking care of the basics doesn’t necessarily garner headlines but it is important for job creation and keeping our communities competitive. I’m dedicated to ensuring that the Central Valley becomes strong economically.

CA STATE SENATE – DI ST RI CT 5 : A L A N NA K A N I S H I

1:

I am a physician of many years in San Joaquin County, I founded a medical group, and a small business group. At present, I am a Lodi city council member, former mayor, and former State Assembly member. I currently serve on the Groundwater Basin Authority, alternate to the City of Government, and alternate to the Delta Protection Agency. I also worked two years under a Board of Equalization as a job/economy

specialist. I am endorsed by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. My job performance can be judged by reviewing my records in business, on the city council, and the state assembly.

2:

During my time in the Assembly before being termed out, I was able to work with the opposing majority party to pass legislation for my district and state.

A major bill for businesses was the workers’ compensation reform bill. Businesses were hurting because of the rising costs of workers’ compensation. I was one of the co-authors of the Workers’ Compensation reform bill.

During my term in the Assembly, I had open communication with the council members and county supervisors in the district. I worked with OCTOBER 2016

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them to pass several state bills for their districts. I plan to do so in the future.

3: The legislature plays a major role in economic

development. The majority party continues to pass laws that increase regulations, and increase taxes and unfunded mandates to cities and businesses.

They make it more expensive for businesses, cities, and counties. We need a new direction and to pass laws that bring jobs and economic development.

The legislature can support growth and job retention by decreasing taxes, decreasing regulations, and cutting unfunded mandates and other onerous demands.

4: Water is paramount along with job creation

and economic growth. The twin tunnel plan supported by Governor Brown and the majority party will devastate our valley. It will destroy the five billion dollar farming economy. It will bring salt water intrusion into our rivers and aquifers.

Water quality will be harmed for both human and animals and cause subsidence of land. The plan is similar to the poorly-advised peripheral canal that was voted down by voters many years ago.

I will continue to work against water transport out of the district, as I have done as a city council member, an assembly member, and now serving on the various water committees. I continue to be aligned with local water district members, farmers, and officials in the fight against the twin tunnels.

5:

I believe the local district, the City of Government of San Joaquin, and Stanislaus should be the one to prioritize the use of state funds for transportation. They are the ones near to the people and know their needs the best. Citizens and businesses should be heard, to ensure an efficient cost-effective multimodal transportation system.

local districts and cut mandates, not desired by the local district.

6:

I will take the similar steps in reviewing the state budget as I have done many times for other budgets that have come under my purview as a city council member, assembly member, a business ,and a nonprofit organization. I believe in a fiscally sound balanced budget and to spend within ones means.

The majority of funds for the state budget are already directed because of previous legislation and initiatives. The schools must be paid for, then other services.

The discretionary funds are limited. Additional funds should go for reserves, for unfunded liability, and into infrastructure and sent back to counties for roads and highways.

The state should work cooperatively with the

CA STATE ASSEMBLY - D I ST RI CT 1 2 : H E AT H F L O R A

1:

I am a farmer, small business owner, and director of International Sales for a family owned manufacturing company. I am also a volunteer firefighter. My private sector and public safety background gives me experience that will help make me an effective representative for this district as I know how to deal with the region’s #1 economic concern, emergencies, water issues, and understand the regulatory burden.

I will have an open door policy and will gladly meet with anyone who needs help.

2:

Like any relationship, it must be built on mutual respect and continuous open communication. I will meet regularily with locally elected officials to hear their concerns and help craft solutions to reional problems.

I will also have regular business roundtables in the different regions on the 12th district as it is essential that we grow our economy at a faster rate.

3:

The legislature should work very hard at getting out of the way of and supporting the growth and development of small businesses. The legislature needs to reduce the regulatory burden, expedite construction of water storage facilities, reform the tax code to encourage job creation, and reduce the number of frivolous lawsuits filed against businesses.

is. Count on me to oppose schemes that will lead to confusion and litigation or allow government bureaucrats to stop people from pumping water that’s needed for crops and livestock.

5: I will meet with county supervisors, regional

government leaders, and city councilmembers to advocate solutions to the unique transportation needs facing the Central Valley. I will lead efforts to get our fair share of transportation dollars and work to ensure the gas tax funds are spent on road improvement as was intended.

4: We must focus on ensuring water, property, 6: An in-depth review and a balanced budget and privacy rights are respected. As noted above, we must speed construction of new water storage facilities. We should plug the leaks in water districts which cost us hundreds of billions of gallons a year.

The state must continue education efforts so that Southern California appreciates how precious water

is a must. Some of my top priorities are bringing reliable water supplies to our district, stopping job-killing tax hikes, improving vocational and career opportunities, and ensuring public safety programs are funded.

CA STATE ASSEM BLY - D I ST RI CT 1 2 : K E N VO G E L

1:

I have experience in local government as a School Board member and a County Supervisor.

I have worked on the water issues that affect our area and have relationships with people in and outside the 12th Assembly District that work with those issues. I have extensive experience in agriculture, which is a major industry in our area.

2: To encourage a cooperative relationship with

local government, I would meet regularly with their representatives and maintain an open office and phone to encourage that relationship. I would

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

continue to be involved with the local Chambers of Commerces as I have in the past.

3: The Legislature can help our local economies by

looking at meaningful regulatory reform in California.

5:

The State must realize that we need to take care of our existing roadway infrastructure. The High Speed Rail proposal is hugely expensive whereas other projects such as the Ace Train make more sense.

4: My positsion on water issues is that we should 6: invest in more water storage, groundwater recharge and desalinzation. We do not need to invest in projects that merely move water around and take vital irrigation water from oureastern rivers.

We must spend our citizen’s tax money with a great deal of thoughtfulness. Our existing infrastructure must be maintained, water supplies provided, and public safety assursed–before tax money is used for new, non-economic programs.

CA STATE ASSEMBLY - D I ST RI CT 2 1 : A DA M C. G R AY

1:

Experience and commitment to the Valley help qualify me for this office. I have always believed voters should judge elected officials on their voting records and also on their ability to work toward goals that improve the community beyond the legislative record itself. Much of that occurs outside the actual roll call votes on issues. Organizing the community and negotiating issues with others so that a local need is addressed in the first phase of a proposal are necessary components of a successful legislative record. It is essential that members who represent our area possess that ability.

2:

I have had a good response working with local government on issues ranging from water and ADA reform to local economic development. Last year, the years-long negative bailout that penalized Stanislaus County residents was finally eliminated, saving local taxpayers up to six million a year.

That would not have happened if state and local officials did not work hand in hand. Removal of the negative bailout, as well as transportation issues like the expansion of the San Joaquin and Ace rail services, will not occur unless we work together.

3:

The legislature and governor set many of the ground rules that impact economic development.

The legislature also plays an important role in making sure regional carve-outs do not penalize

one part of the state at the expense of another. On issues like minimum wage, job creation incentives, and environmental regulation, the state’s role is overwhelming. We should be allies in economic development, not indifferent bystanders, and certainly not obstacles. We need to constantly be mindful that what may work in Los Angeles or San Francisco is not necessarily workable here in the Valley.

4: Absolutely.The proposed water take by the State

Water Board represents the most significant threat to our economic development and our future that we have ever faced. This threat cannot be overstated. In their own words, the state intends to force our area to accommodate a “regulatory drought,” which will become a permanent condition with “significant but unavoidable” impacts. It is ironic that water systems like Don Pedro and Exchequer, which were financed only by local ratepayers, are being targeted to help the recovery of systems that are state and federal responsibilities.

5: We need regional connectivity transit projects, new regional goods movement infrastructure, and local road maintenance money. The state has a major role, but local government does also. Merced and Stanislaus counties do not have self help road revenues. Every other Valley county does. Until Merced and Stanislaus enact such a measure, we

will always be behind the other counties in state and federal funding because so much of it requires a matching component.

6:

For our area, the priorities are health care, economic development (transportation and education), and law enforcement. I would also rephrase the question slightly. All spending must be looked at from both an efficiency and a priority perspective. I am not against spending in all state programs, but I am opposed to wasteful spending in all state programs.

I also watch for regional disparities in funding formulas. A homeless program that claims to operate on a competitive grant basis may in fact include a formula, which builds in an advantage for one region over others, or disadvantages a region. This should be factored into the decision-making process. For example, the state recently approved a revised tax on health plans to protect the State’s ability to receive federal money. Many health groups and insurance plans supported this proposal. I refused to sign on to the measure however, because it did not specifically address the medical services shortfall that we see in the valley. After negotiations, we secured a commitment of $100 million a year for three years that would be directed to Valley health challenges. We need that approach throughout the state budget process. P

TUES. OCT. 25 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

MODESTO CENTRE PLAZA TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE NOW contact the Chamber 209.577.5757 or visit our website www.modchamber.org

OCTOBER 2016

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G O V E R NMENT RELAT IONS

WHAT ALTERNATIVES DO WE HAVE AFTER STATE WATER BOARD DEMANDS?

By Assemblymembers Kristin Olsen and Adam Gray

Over the past three years, the State Water Resources Control Board has been updating its Bay-Delta Water Quality Management Plan, which was first presented in 2012.

KRISTIN OLSEN ASSEMBLYMEMBER

The plan’s purpose is to find common ground and balance that helps restore declining fisheries while maintaining groundwater and drinking water quality for our communities and the health of our local economic drivers, including agriculture. By law, it must be a balanced approach.

In 2012, the plan called for increasing unimpaired flows to 35 percent. This, in effect, would almost double the amount of water flowing to the Delta from the three rivers in our area and consequently reduce the amount of water stored in reservoirs and available for irrigation and replenishment of our groundwater basins.

ADAM GRAY ASSEMBLYMEMBER

Our communities rallied in opposition to the 2012 plan. It would have caused serious groundwater depletion by removing essential water for recharging the basins. This, in turn, would seriously undercut the drinking water quality upon which most of our residents in Stanislaus, Merced and south San Joaquin counties depend.

Last year, the two of us, along with Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham, formally asked the chair of the state water board to express the board’s support for good-faith settlement discussions between the interested parties. All agreed that honest efforts to find common ground were a better approach than endless and costly litigation.

Unfortunately, and to our utter dismay, the water board has rejected this approach. Instead, Thursday it released its latest 2,000-page report, making it available for comment for only 60 days. It calls for a range of flows from 30 to 50 percent, but starting at 40 percent–higher than even the 2012 plan recommended.

Good faith negotiations require leadership and open, honest discussions. The water board has failed to demonstrate either in its work to date.

Despite repeated requests from stakeholders and legislators, the water board has failed to discuss its flow proposal with any of the local jurisdictions in our area responsible for groundwater and drinking water. They came to one meeting and used it to announce they would come to more meetings, would answer questions and would engage in technical discussions with the affected parties.

They did none of these things. None of the state board’s recommendations, assumptions, or even basic data, has been provided to the stakeholders most impacted.

Our county superintendents of schools–Tom Changnon of Stanislaus and Steve Gomes of Merced–are both responsible for the drinking water quality for thousands of students. And each asked to meet with water board staff to discuss the board’s assumptions and the impact of its proposal on

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

schools. They were told, along with the cities and counties who have asked for information, to wait for the revised report; only then will there be any opportunity to examine the “facts.”

Nowhere else in California would a project of this scope and magnitude be allowed to reach a recommended alternative stage without the participation and engagement of the people most affected. There are 920,000 Californians who will have the future of their neighborhoods, communities, and towns essentially determined by implementation of this report; they have not been allowed into the rooms where assumptions were generated and decisions made.

This is not transparency.

This is not good government.

The irrigation districts along the Stanislaus, Merced and Tuolumne rivers have submitted offers for settlement. The state has not responded to these offers, nor has it made counteroffers of its own. When one side makes a proposal, and the other side does nothing, you don’t have negotiations–you have bad faith.

Three years and one major drought later, the water board now wants to substantially increase the unimpaired flow requirements of these rivers– ignoring the economic devastation such an action would impose on our communities.

With last week’s release of the state water board’s revised report, Chairwoman Felicia Marcus now touts the board’s willingness to entertain settlement offers going forward. We hope she is sincere.

Research shows that increasing water flows into the Delta has done nothing to increase fish populations. The fact is, other measures, including predator suppression and habitat restoration, are essential to solving the problem. A multifaceted approach is required, not a proposal that relies solely on a water flow strategy that, according to science and data, is destined to fail in halting the decline of fisheries.

We hope the board’s new revised report includes mitigation for all major impacts. Without mitigation, implementation of the report condemns our area–the place many of us have called home our entire lives–to permanent economic malaise.

Please join us in urging the water board to consider settlement offers as alternatives to its unreasonable proposal. Your comments will be vital. Send an email today to Stop The Regulatory Drought, www.stoptheregulatorydrought.com As we stated earlier, settlement discussions require leadership, honesty ,and good faith. We hope to finally start seeing both demonstrated by the state, and we urge all stakeholders to remain engaged in seeking a workable solution.

Kristin Olsen represents the 12th Assembly District, which includes part of San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties; Adam Gray represents the 21st Assembly district, which includes Merced and part of Stanislaus counties. P

G OVERN M EN T RELATION S

WHY NOW? WHY NOT? THE CASE FOR MEASURE L

By Craig C. Lewis, Chamber Board of Directors

Is this the right time for a transportation tax? Why now?

Well, why not? This is the real question!

81 percent of all Californians pay a one-half cent sales tax for local transportation needs. Is this something we should consider in our county? Don’t the sizeable funds that currently come CRAIG C. LEWIS CHAMBER BOARD OF from the gas tax already pay for our DIRECTORS local transportation needs? If we don’t see that money, who does it go to? If we pay it; wouldn’t it just automatically come back to us for us to determine how it is spent?

Furthermore, we are paying enough taxes, why are you asking us to pay more? It just seems that we are always asked to pay more and more in taxes, and do we see any benefits from those?

Let’s try to answer the last question. Let’s take our local and selfcreated Library Tax, which is different than state taxes. How does the Library Tax work? We tax ourselves 1/8 of a cent, which goes directly to the libraries in the county. Because we self-fund the libraries by taxing ourselves, we are able to use those funds directly for our libraries and thankfully, they receive the funding they need to survive. We directly chose where those funds would be applied, as opposed to state taxes, which we do not have control over.

community and funded by the transportation tax by visiting www.MeasureL-Yes.com. By law and ordinance, these funds must be applied to these predetermined projects, so you can be confident that your taxes will not be spent on anything else. To promote transparency and accountability, a citizen’s oversight committee will audit the spending of these funds annually to ensure that the money is being applied as promised to the citizens of Stanislaus County. If your particular community leaders pull any of the funding that they are already spending on transportation needs and move it to any other category in their budget, then their funding from this tax is eliminated and they will not receive any more until the previous funding is put back into its designated account.

With this level of transparency and accountability, it is no wonder that 81 percent of all Californian’s agree to tax themselves. The money is actually spent where and how we want it to be spent. Now that’s a novel idea. What has taken us so long here in Stanislaus County to figure this out? Wouldn’t you like the opportunity to control where your taxes go? The state and the Fed can’t take our self-taxed funding away like they do with most of the state and federal taxes we pay. It is now our turn to keep our own money right here and use it for the betterment of our local transportation needs. The time is long past! Don’t let this opportunity pass us by again! Vote Yes on Measure L.

Similarly, Measure L, or the self-generated transportation tax, allows us to choose how our money is spent. The only money from these taxes that the state will see is from processing our money.

The money that comes back to us to be spent on very specific, selfdetermined projects.

Note: After voting for our government leaders, skip over all of the ballot measures, find Measure L, vote yes, and then go back and vote on the rest of the ballot measures! Secondly, if you want to know the rest of the answers to the above questions, and any other questions you may have on the Transportation Tax, go to www.MeasureL-Yes.com and find what you are looking for.

You can find all of the projects that will be done in your

Be sure and vote. Your vote matters. Put it where it counts.

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OCTOBER 2016

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GO VE R NMENT R ELATIO NS

100 DAY REPORT OFFERS RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE MODESTO’S FINANCIAL HEALTH

By Jacqui D. Sinarle

Modesto may not be financially prepared to weather a future economic recession, but according to the recently published 100 Day Report, there are many actions that the Modesto City Council can take to both increase the city’s general fund and establish the resources to hire additional police officers.

The report was prepared by the 100 Day Committee, a group including the mayor, two city council members, and ten local citizens. The committee was tasked with studying Modesto’s financial picture and finding the funds to add more Modesto police officers and improve the city’s long term financial stability, and was asked to focus on the city’s general fund budget, where the council has the most discretion in setting priorities and from which the council funds public safety.

“What we discovered is truly alarming: In each year after fiscal year 201617, City expenses will exceed City revenues, according to Modesto’s own forecasts for its general fund, which pays to operate the City,” committee chair Charles L. Bryant wrote in a letter prefacing the report.

“These forecasts are based on fairly optimistic assumptions about money coming into the City,” Bryant’s letter continued. “They don’t take into account more realistic forecasts, including those weighing a recession, which will come again, and the increasing burden of mandatory retirement contributions (to CalPERS) or other financial difficulties.”

In the report, the committee concluded “…unless Modesto sheds a ‘business as usual’ approach and acts soon on multiple fronts, it is possible the City general fund will struggle to supply even the most vital services to its citizens within five to ten years.”

The report identified more than 35 areas that could result in cost savings or revenue enhancement, with recommendations that included:

Renegotiating banking fees and costs (with a potential of saving $360,000 a year)

Consolidating duplicative city and county administration services such as mail, purchasing and human resources

Collecting all franchise fees from businesses using city assets within city limits (which could raise $1 million or more each year)

Analyzing and considering annexation of a portion of North McHenry Avenue (which could raise $500,000 to $1 million or more in sales and property each year)

“The report contains some hot button issues that may concern some residents and threaten various projects,” Bryant added.

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

Potentially controversial recommendations included:

Protect community treasures from long-term budget uncertainties by donating city assets like McHenry Mansion and McHenry museum (operated at a combined loss of $187,000 a year) to nonprofit organizations

Sell or renegotiate the contracts of one or more of the city’s three public golf courses (which are projected to lose $696,000 in fiscal year 2016-17)

Negotiate with DoubleTree hotel to transfer management and operation of Modesto Centre Plaza (budgeted to lose $514,000 in fiscal year 2016-17) or consider the sale or closure of the venue

Renegotiate the Modesto Nuts contract for John Thurman Field (budgeted to lose $248,000 in fiscal year 2016-17)

Consider more profitable uses for the Modesto City-County Airport (which lost $284,000 in fiscal year 2015-16 and is projected to lose another $77,000 in fiscal year 2016-17)

“The 100 Day Report is just a start and the City Council has to approve most all of the major changes,” Bryant said. “Ultimately these recommendations will give Modesto more police, safer streets, and a fiscally sound city.”

“I encourage everyone to read the report and send their comments, ideas, and solutions to City Hall and council members,” said committee member Patricia Gillum, a CPA and Vice Chair of Internal Operations for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. “It’s important to stay engaged in the process of making our city slogan—water, wealth, contentment, health—a reality for us all.”

To view the 100 Day Report online, visit www.modestogov.com/1468/100-Day-Committee and select Final Report. P

PROGRESS T O S UC C E S S

Ta l k d i re c t l y to t h o u sa n ds o f l o c a l bu si ne ss an d S ta n i sl a u s Co u n ty ' s to p de c i si o n - m a k e rs.

A dv e rt i se i n P ro gre ss M a ga z i n e , t h e a ward - win n in g bu si n e ss pu bl i c a t i o n o f t h e M o de sto Chamb e r of Co m m e rc e . I t ’s m o re a ff o rda bl e t h a n y ou may t h in k.

A D V E RT IS E N OW cal l : 2 0 9 - 5 2 6 - 9 1 3 6 or

Š Modesto Irrigation District

e- m ai l : progres s @ nev er bor i ng. com

Lighting rebates

HVAC rebates

High efficiency motor rebates

OCTOBER 2016

13

C O M M UNI TY DEVELO PMENT

ANNOUNCEMENTS Modesto Gospel Mission is proud to announce that they have received Certification from the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (AGRM). This certification means that they meet industry standards for well-run rescue missions.

Some of the areas scrutinized by AGRM are federal, state, and local regulations affecting facilities and operations; buildings, equipment, and fixed assets; procedures and policies that relate to a safe and efficient operation; philosophies, goals, and objectives for all ongoing programs; staff training and educational needs; accounting and fund raising practices; and relationships with supporters, clients, and community.

Kevin Carroll, Executive Director, anticipates receiving the Certificate of Excellence within the next year. This certification recognizes missions that are models of effective programming and operations, exemplifying the best of what rescue ministries can be in their service to God and to those in need. P

American GI Forum presents Dia de los Muertos Oct. 29, at Tenth Street Plaza–Modesto from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Schedule of the Day’s Events: Brenden Theatre free movie: “Book of Life.”

10 a.m.

11 a.m.

Booths open to the community.

Opening ceremony to welcome everyone.

Children’s activities on Tenth Street between I and J Streets.

11 a.m. to Face painting, games, sidewalk chalk drawing, and more.

4 p.m.

12 p.m.

4:30 to 5 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

7 to 10 p.m.

Children’s catrin & catrina pageant at the Tenth Street Plaza.

Dia de los Muertos procession. Starting point St. Stanislaus Church at 7th & J Steets and ending at Plaza de Los Muertos (Tenth Street Plaza).

Fun for all the Adults.

DJ Equis for your dancing pleasure, free casino entertainment provided by Custom Casino Events, adult catrin & catrina pageant, dancing, giveaways, games and much more! Thank you to all the Tenth Street businesses for your support and help to make this day a success! P 14

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Join us as we partner with Chamber Discoveries in offering opportunities to members, friends and family in exploring wonderful overseas destinations. Visit us on Oct. 12, at 4:30 p.m. at the Modesto Chamber for wine, cheese and the opportunity to learn more about these exciting travel opportunities.

For more information contact John Villines at 209.577.5757 or email JVillines@modchamber.org P The Economic Summit is presented by BIA Great Valley, Modesto Chamber of Commerce, Opportunity Stanislaus, and University of the Pacific: Eberhardt School of Business Oct. 20 at the DoubleTree by Hilton. 1150 9th St. Modesto.

9th St. garage parking will be validated.

Tickets are $40 for members and $50 for non-members.

8 to 8:30 a.m. is registration and breakfast, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. is the presentation, and 10:30 to 11 a.m. is the Q & A, with networking Contact Angela at the BIA with questions or to purchase tickets at 209.235.7831 or email angelab@biagv.org P

Your Benefits Plan...Your Way.

CHAMBER CALENDAR OCTOBER 2016 4

CHAMBER U – THE REWARDS OF BUILDING EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

NOVEMBER 2016 2 3

SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. 1114 J St. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

5

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13

20

20

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

3

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

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Lakewood Memorial Park 900 Santa Fe Rd. Hughson, CA 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

CENTRAL VALLEY BUSINESS SUMMIT

CHAMBER U – SUPERVISOR SEXUAL HARASSMENT PREVENTION SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. 1114 J St. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

GOOD EGG BREAKFAST DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th St. 7 to 8:30 a.m.

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS WITH TOY DRIVE FOR THE SALVATION ARMY Bank of the West with I.J. Larsen Pumps 901 H St. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

CHAMBER U – DIGITAL MARKETING 201: VIDEO KILLED THE PRINT STAR

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

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

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

Presented by Final Cut Media 1114 J St. 10 to 11 a.m.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

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BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

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AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM*

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

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Modesto Gospel Mission 1400 Yosemite Blvd.

7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

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

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

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 to 1:30 p.m.

Double Tree/Modesto Centre Plaza 1150 Ninth St. 8 a.m to 2:30 p.m.

AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM*

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 8 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

OCTOBER 2016

15

N E T W ORK I NG & REFERRALS

RIBBON CUTTINGS

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS AGILE SOLUTIONS & CONSULTING INC. DBA MODESTO AM PM

Vipul Patel 2033 Standiford Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 209.577.4797

CENTRAL CATHOLIC : MARK GALLO HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER 200 S. Carpenter Rd. Modesto, CA 95351 www.cchsca.org

DOWNTOWN MODESTO PARTNERSHIP

Josh Bridegroom 1325 H St. Modesto, CA 95354 209.202.5525 www.domopartnership.org

LHK INTERIORS

Lindsay Kjellberg 121 Downey Ave. #211B Modesto, CA 95354 209.505.4948 www.lhkinteriors.com

STANISLAUS CHINESE ASSOCIATION

Huey Y. Lee 2000 Lakeview Ct. Modesto, 95355 209.651.0388

Please Join Us for Business After Hours October 20th at 5:30 p.m.

SANDUDE 1028 11th St. Modesto, CA 95354

{ OCTOBER } BUSINESS

AFTER H OU R S

Business After hosted by: LAKEWOOD FUNERAL HOME / 900 SANTA FE RD., HUGHSON

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES 2100 Standiford Ave., Ste. E17 & 18 Modesto, CA 95350 www.nothingbundtcakes.com

SUTTER HEALTH MMC – SLEEP DISORDER CENTER 1401 Spanos Ct. Modesto, CA 95355 www.suttergold.org 16

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Lakewood Funeral Home and Memorial Park were built on a basic belief in community responsibility and service. We offer an onsite crematory in addition to our funeral home and cemetery. Our cemetery offers beautiful gardens for interment, a columbarium, and mausoleums. As such, you’ll not only receive the compassionate care you expect from a locally operated establishment, but also the value you deserve from the largest and most trusted network of funeral, cremation and memorialization services. We are the only presidential burial team and have buried the last five presidents!

For more information on our services or to make pre-arrangement plans, please contact Susan Stark Pre-Planning Advisor at 209.883.1925 ext. 261 or Lakewood at 209.883.4465. P

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

BE RECOGNIZED BE ENTERTAINING BE COMFORTABLE BELONG. FIND OUT WHAT SENIOR LIVING WAS MEANT TO BE

Dale Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community

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

800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org

OCTOBER 2016

17

EDU CA TI O N

ROAD TRIP: A HELPING HAND FOR ADOLESCENTS

By By Susan Rich, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, SCOE

Could there be a more awkward time of life than adolescence? You are growing like a weed. You haven’t quite figured out how to get all the body parts going in the same direction at the same time. Your skin isn’t cooperating. And then, to add insult to injury, you leave the safety of your elementary school (where you are at least the oldest and most experienced kids around) only to be corralled with significantly SUSAN RICH ASS. SUPERINTENDANT more, hormonally challenged peers OF ADMIN. SERVICES, onto a much larger campus and SCOE assigned to six different teachers.

And then, THEN, they want you to change your clothes in front of each other for PE: the ultimate nightmare!

It is precisely at this potentially rocky transition that the Road Trip: Journey to Success creates a small support community for students to better weather a new environment and increased demands. The participating students are identified by their sixth grade teachers and invited to participate. The purpose of this community is to guide students toward completion of high school by better engaging them in school and providing a network of students and adults to support them.

A team from the Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE) comprised of specialists in Prevention Education, College & Career Awareness, and Technology links arms with club advisors from the pilot junior high schools and other community members to create a summer to remember. The two week experience in the summer gels the group, and for the next six years, they will communicate, reunite, and progress toward a high school diploma.

Summer 2016 saw the second such group of students come together.

Half the cohort are now 7th graders at Mark Twain Junior High and the others attend Waterford Junior High. Through perfect attendance during the inaugural two week experience, students earn the computer

18

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

tablets used during the summer so that participants can continue to communicate with each other and the Road Trip staff through a protected, virtual environment.

During the last two weeks of July, participants learned to use those tablets to code a robot’s movements, to take photos and videos of the summer events, and to learn more about technology.

Staff organized the ten days of summer around themes. Each day showcased a resiliency trait (perseverance, self-worth, and optimism, among others) and a content focus (career exploration, science, entrepreneurship, etc.). Each day began and ended with a journal prompt (another use for the tablets) that probed student thinking and learning around the themes.

The last day of the summer provided the students with a special tour of their respective junior high campuses to get the lay of the land and the opportunity to meet key staff. Each junior high school sent its PHAST (Promoting Health and Slamming Tobacco) advisor, and so these students are stepping into their lives as junior high students already members of a club on campus. This club focuses on healthy choices and includes community services. Additionally, this club has a partner chapter at the high schools where the students will matriculate.

And so far, so good. SCOE staff followed its first cohort of Road Trip students, those who attended the Summer of 2015 and just entered their 8th grade year. As 7th graders, these students had significantly better attendance than their recommended peers who chose not to attend the Road Trip experience. They had fewer suspensions. They participated in events with the Road Trip staff and through their PHAST clubs throughout the year. In short, they are off to a better start because of the Road Trip efforts. And that’s what the Road Trip is all about: putting out a helping hand for those wandering in the oft times painful abyss of adolescence. P

WORK IN

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

B ANK OF THE WEST SUCCEEDS WITH FRONTIER SPIRIT

By Jacqui D. Sinarle

“A s one of the leading regional financial ser vices companies in the nation, we’re focused on relationships, providing exceptional cus tomer ser vices and being a good cor por ate neighbor,” L az zarini said.

“Our friendly and knowledgeable team member s, reliable tr ansac tion proces sing, and s tr aight for ward produc t s and ser vices are hallmar ks of our award -winning relationship banking.”

Bank of the Wes t has four br anch loc ations in Modes to: one on H Street, Oakdale Road, McHenr y Avenue, and Pelandale Avenue, in addition to an Agribusines s Specialt y Group and a regional of fice.

The bank is also commit ted to as sis ting the communities in which it s team member s live and wor k by not only providing financial ser vices that help busines ses and individuals prosper, but also by contributing through volunteerism, charitable giving, and sponsor ships.

Loc al br anch manager s and employees are ac tively involved with nonprofit organizations in Modes to, added Virgen.

“We encour age them to shop loc ally, play loc ally, and live loc ally.”

Bank of the Wes t also maintains the highes t levels of integrit y and ethic al s tandards and provides an environment that fos ter s excellence, encour ages creative thinking, and respec t s diver sit y among it s employees.

“Ultimately what set s us apar t is our people,” concluded L az zarini. “Our team member s are dedic ated to helping our cus tomer s achieve their goals, building las ting relationships, and delivering exceptional ser vice, and they are vital to our succes s.”

(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 r a 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. neverboring.com

Founded in 1874, Bank of the Wes t is a regional financial ser vices company that provides a wide r ange of per sonal, commercial, small and medium enter prise, wealth management, national finance, and inter national banking ser vices for individuals and busines ses through more than 60 0 of fices in 23 s tates. With more than 10,0 0 0 team member s acros s the U.S., Bank of the Wes t is dedic ated to helping cus tomer s achieve their goals through exper tise, world - clas s produc t s and per sonalized ser vices.

Bank of the Wes t also oper ates 12 loc ations in Turlock, Hughson, Ceres, Water ford, Pat ter son, Newman, Esc alon, and Oakdale.

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT

For more infor mation about Bank of the Wes t, visit bankof thewes t.com. P

•

“Bank of the Wes t has advanced the financial health of Califor nians for more than 140 year s,” said Maria L az zarini, executive vice president, regional banking executive.

“We c ar r y on the spirit of the Wes t and share the optimism of our client s, who have inspired Bank of the Wes t to wor k harder and go fur ther to meet the financial needs of individuals, families, large and small busines ses, and communit y organizations.”

“Bank of the Wes t has an ex tensive his tor y in Modes to dating back to 1979,” noted Luc y Virgen, vice president and area manager. “Since then, we have had merger s with Centr al Bank, Sanwa Bank, and, mos t recently, Union Safe Deposit Bank. Our his tor y shows that great things c an happen when you keep your focus loc al.”

© Never Boring

Bank of the Wes t ’s innovative culture was built on the entrepreneurial spirit of the Wes t, and that vision remains at the core of it s longevit y and succes s.

OCTOBER 2016

19

N E T W OR K I NG & REFERRAL

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ERIN MILAN SALON & SPA Erin Milan 1150 9th St., Modesto, CA 95354 209.569.5189 | www.erinmilan.com With an education in advanced hair coloring and cutting techniques and 22 years of experience in the industry, founder and owner Erin Sonia Bugarin has traveled through the States as an educator and platform artist in hair shows. She, along with co-founder and owner Sergio Funes, are now working in the heart of downtown Modesto at Erin Milan Salon and Spa. Erin Milan Salon & Spa consists of a highly trained stylist and color specialist staff, as well as spa therapists who continue to excel in an industry that is highly competitive and challenging. At Erin Milan Salon & Spa, our skilled specialists are dedicated to bring out the beautiful you through expert hair styling, the best hair colorings, relaxing massages, fabulous pedicures and manicures, customized baby waxing, beautiful styles, make up applications for special occasions, and now balancing your body and skin with our New TulasÄ ra facials and body treatments with the perfect spa experience customized just for you.

The rigorous training and high expectations of staff maintains a prolific creative energy that flows from stylists to clients and beyond.

Erin Milan Salon & Spa attracts upscale professionals who come from all over the world as well as many lovely local clients. The salon provides a serene experience. Guests are always happy because they are given the most professional customer service and because the staff genuinely cares about the integrity of the hair and body. One of the many ways in which Erin Milan Salon & Spa does this is by using natural products by AVEDA. Guests leave with healthy, shiny hair and a relaxed mind, body, and soul. Blending years of expertise with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, they have created an elegant salon experience designed for your well being, both inside and out. Conveniently located in Downtown Modesto at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. They offer the perfect Salon and Spa experience for the busy professional or the out-of-town guest coming from all over the world and our locals from our surrounding towns. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

HELPING VALLEY BUSINESS GROW At Oak Valley, we take pride in helping our customers and communities get stronger.

The most rewarding opportunities are often those which provide local businesses the ability to grow and help our communities thrive.

Dr. Chang pictured with Peter Brown, Commercial Loan Officer, 209.844.7522, Sylvia Orozco, Modesto-McHenry Branch Manager, 209.579.3365, and Ron Davenport, Sales Manager, 209.343.7627

“When we needed capital to build a new office for our growing patient population, Oak Valley clearly stood out. They understand our medical practice, provided the best terms, and facilitated the loan process with SBA. Their attention to detail ensured our construction project went smoothly and swiftly.”

– S. William Chang, M.D., President, Valley Retina

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

866.844.7500 • ovcb.com Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock • Patterson Escalon • Ripon • Stockton • Manteca • Tracy

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PARKS GROUP 209.576.2568 theparksgroup.com Modesto: 209.576.2568 1515 Tenth Street, Modesto, CA 95354 Stockton: 209.466.9026 445 W. Weber Ave, Suite 124A, Stockton, CA 95203

OCTOBER 2016

21

N E TW OR K I NG & REFERRALS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

SILVER LEVEL

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Rabobank

E. & J. Gallo Winery

PLATINUM LEVEL

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

F & M Bank

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

American Chevrolet American Medical Response

Galletto Ristorante

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Walmart Walmart Neighborhood Market

Aramark Uniform Services Atherton & Associates, LLP

DIAMOND LEVEL

Brightwood College

Gianelli & Associates Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc. Golden Valley Health Centers

Rogers Jewelry Company San Joaquin Valley College Save Mart Supermarkets Smile Shine Family Dental

Bank of the West

Brunn & Flynn

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Seven Up Bottling Corporation

Beard Land and Investment Co.

California State University, Stanislaus

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

Care One Home Health

HealthSouth Rehabilitation

Solar City

Doctors Behavioral

Solid Networks, 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.

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Central Valley Nissan

Pacific Southwest Container Physician Referral Service-DMC

GOLD LEVEL

and Hospice, Inc.

of Modesto

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc. Infiniti of Modesto Institute of Technology

Stanislaus Distributing Stanislaus Food Products Company Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Storer Coachways

International Paper Company

SunOpta Aseptic, Inc.

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

JS West & Company

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Central Valley Medical Group

Maxx Value Foods

TSM Insurance

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

Mercer Foods

Turlock Irrigation District

Chuckchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Mocse Credit Union

5.11, Inc.

Clark Pest Control

Crystal Creamery

COIT Services Inc.

Modesto Commerce Bank

DoubleTree Hotel

Collins Electrical

Fiscallini Cheese Company

Comcast

Memorial Medical Center Modesto Irrigation District

Modesto Toyota

Union Bank US Bank Uno Chicago Grill Valley Children’s Healthcare

The Modesto Bee

Valley First Credit Union

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

Oak Valley Community Bank

Valley Lexus-BMW

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

O’Brien’s Market

Vintage Faire Mall

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Pacific Gas & Electric Company

W.H. Breshears, Inc.

RACOR, Division of Parker

DeAngelos Jewelry

Panelized Structures Inc.

Del Monte Foods

Papa John’s

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

Pepsi Bottling Group

Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Wells Fargo Bank Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

PMZ Real Estate

Post Foods, LLC

Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

Final Cut Media

Prime Shine Car Wash

First Choice Physician Partners

Prompt Staffing

Food Maxx

Insurance Agency

D.B.A Courtesy Staffing

Save the Date 103rd Annual Gala

January 28, 2017 • Gallo Center for the Arts

WEB DESIGN Modernize your content on the web.

A clean, navigational interface and searchable content can bring the right traffic to your site. We can provide that—and anything else from comprehensive online shops to fast, responsive websites.

It’s in our code.

When you can get all the tools you need in one place, why go anywhere else?

It isn’t just about having an ad or logo—it has to be creative. It has to be Never Boring.

Four locations to serve you. neverboring.com

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