January Progress Magazine

January 2012 Vol. 33 Issue 1 modchamber.org

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 100 Years of Leadership New Members

Work In Progress

Ribbon Cuttings

CONTENTS january 2012

Mission Statement

To promote the region’s economic strengths and vitality; identify and promote services that are valuable to our members; advocate for public policy that is advantageous to the business community; and fully participate and partner in activities to improve quality of life.

Executive Committee Chairman Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group Chairman Elect David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Vice Chairman of Events & Special Projects Doug Johnson, Reach Business Systems, Inc. Directors Pamela Cullors, Sysco Food Services of Central California David Halvorson, American Chevrolet Neal Khatri, Best Western Khatri Properties Craig Lewis, Prudential California Realty Sharon Likely, Kaiser Permanente Michael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc. Shashi Poudyal, DoubleTree Hotel Ron Owen, Bank of the West Chris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents, Inc. Laura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Printer: Parks Printing (209) 576-2568 • frankp@parksprinting.com Distribution: Parks Printing (209) 576-2568 Advertising Sales: Kristin Bowker Never Boring Design Associates (209) 526-9136 • progress@neverboring.com

cover story

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The Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Celebrates Centennial Anniversary

Community Development

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Guest Column

16

Awards and Achievements

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Announcements

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Leadership Modesto

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New Member Profiles

Modesto Chamber’s 100 Year Gala

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People on the Move

DATE: March 10, 2012

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Land of Opportunity

SAVE THE DATE

LOCATION: The Gallo Center

for the Arts

Networking & Referrals

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Business Before and After Hours

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New Chamber Members

20 Ribbon Cuttings 26

Calendar

Welcome Team Corner

julie cipolla

Graphic Design: Never Boring Design Associates (209) 526-9136 • www.neverboring.com

Your Chamber at Work

Economic Development

Ex-Officio Bill Bassitt, The Alliance George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office David Boring, Never Boring Design Greg Nyhoff, City of Modesto Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce (209) 577-5757 • info@modchamber.org

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Vice Chairman of Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA

Vice Chairman of Member Relations Bill Moreno, Fire2Wire

Public Advocacy

25 Work in Progress

Past Chairman Kathy Halsey, Individual Member

Vice Chairman of External Operations Dan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank

It’s an inspiring break from the daily grind to greet new business owners with big gold scissors and a red ribbon. Our Ribbon Cutting events provide a lively environment to congratulate entrepreneurs who have made a commitment to our community by opening their doors locally and joining the Chamber of Commerce. Each Ribbon Cutting is an opportunity to learn how an idea grew to become a business that serves our community.

The Welcome Team provides the opportunity for local businesses to support each other and to work together for mutual success. To learn how we can help protect your business interests, please contact Julie Cipolla of the Law Offices of Brunn & Flynn at (209) 521-2133. P

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1020 15th Street, Suite 13 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 529-4060 Rob@HawksCPA.com

____________Robert A. Hawks, Jr., CPA___ _________ Ɣ think BOLDY Ɣ plan CAREFULLY Ɣ execute PRECISELY Ɣ

On the cover Photos courtesy of the McHenry Museum Modesto Chamber of Commerce Float JS West Modesto Arch

PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673 www.modchamber.org • info@modchamber.org

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Your Cha mber At Work Your Chamber has an open, direct line of communication to your legislative leaders at the local, state and federal level. This is achieved through our highly dedicated, hard working Government Relations Council. Not only is the Council designed to review and make recommendations on legislation and regulations affecting our business community, but the Council also encourages our leaders to report back to the Chamber on what their office has accomplished and what they intend to accomplish in the future. Below is a synopsis reflecting our Senator’s and Assemblymember’s achievements and goals.

Senator Tom Berryhill As I look toward 2012, I realize how much work lies ahead. My focus for the next year will be on continuing to fight to bring jobs to the Central Valley and all of California.

California’s budget problems have prevented us from economic recovery and more than symbolic gestures and smoke and mirrors are necessary to get California back on track. This year I joined a group of Senators senator tom berryhill working to get budget reforms that would create jobs and not burden California’s hard working taxpayers. There are three big areas of reform that will get Californians back to work and our economy back on track.

First, a spending cap that requires Sacramento to pay off its debt, build a healthy reserve and spend no more than it brings in, it’s no different than what every hard working Californian family has to struggle with every month. It would lead to the end of the boom and bust cycle of spending, which results in budget messes like we are in now.

Second, it is imperative that we fix our broken pension system. Governor Brown’s Twelve Point Pension Reform Plan includes many of the proposals that my colleagues and I have advocated over the last year. Now is the time to pass these proposals and ease the future burden on the budget.

Third, we must reform an overzealous regulatory system that has driven businesses out of California. By reducing the unnecessary burdens on California businesses, they can create desperately needed jobs and put Californians back to work.

California relies on an elaborate network of water storage and delivery systems to supply cities, farms, businesses and the environment with adequate water year-round. The state must address our water concerns in a comprehensive approach emphasizing below- and above-ground water storage, strengthening conveyance that recognizes areaof-origin water rights, Delta restoration and resource protection.

For generations, hardworking farmers and ranchers have cultivated California’s vast supply of acreage, eventually making California the world’s fifth largest supplier of food and agriculture products.

This is a legacy to be proud of and one I continue to prioritize.

I am proud to represent the Central Valley, and I look forward to confronting the many challenges we will face in 2012.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Senator Anthony Cannella With the holiday season underway, I’ve had a few moments recently to reflect on my first year in the California State Senate.

And though I’ll admit that the transition to Sacramento hasn’t been completely smooth – especially since it often feels as though partisan politics gets in the way of pragmatism and problem-solving – being senator back in the district and talking to the people I anthony cannella serve has provided an important opportunity to evaluate the good progress we’ve made in the last year and to set our sights on the goals ahead.

I’m especially proud of the spotlight we were able to shine on the urgent need to change the way our state spends taxpayer dollars and the way we treat businesses that want to locate and expand their operations here in the state. As a small-business owner myself, I’ve had the opportunity to share with my colleagues the hurdles I’ve witnessed firsthand that hamper the success of our state’s small businesses.

This year, I joined my colleagues in proposing a robust package of spending and regulatory reform measures designed to get Sacramento’s fiscal house in order and remove barriers to economic growth. Thanks to our continued focus on these issues, I’m pleased to report that the Legislature did pass several bills that build on the reform ideas we championed throughout the legislative session. For example: • Senate Bill 617 requires an analysis of the economic impact on business climate before imposing new regulations.

• Assembly Bill 900 allows certain job-creating green projects to be eligible for expedited judicial review under California’s environmental regulations.

• Assembly Bill 155 was the compromise solution reached by online and brick-and-mortar stores to ensure a fair and equitable system for collecting online sales taxes.

I’m also pleased that the pension reforms Governor Brown proposed last month largely mirror the reforms my colleagues and I proposed earlier this year in Senate Constitutional Amendment 13. I’m encouraged by his willingness to embrace our efforts to craft a sustainable, actuarially sound pension system, and I stand ready to work with Governor Brown and my colleagues in the Legislature in the weeks and months ahead to craft a comprehensive pension reform plan that will end pension abuses, reduce unfunded pension liabilities and control ongoing costs.

Still, there’s far more work to be done to get Sacramento’s spending spree under control and get our neighbors working again, and I’ve been grateful for the positive, constructive feedback I’ve gotten from constituents I’ve spoken with in my meetings around the area over the last two months, including during my most recent visit to the Modesto Chamber in November.

When I head back to Sacramento in January, you can be sure I’ll continue working with my colleagues to do the hard work of prioritizing spending and making California a place where businesses can flourish and jumpstart growth in our local communities.

Only then will we be able to get our neighbors back to work and build a better future for our children and grandchildren.

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Your Cha mber At Work Assemblyman Bill Berryhill 2012 Berryhill Legislative Focus: A Preview Regulations AB 1095 – A two year bill that seeks to implement a dispute resolution process for the Air Resources Board that is modeled after the process used at the local air district level.

The local process has been wildly successful and praised by the local boards, businesses and environmentalists alike. This “appeals” Assemblyman bill berryhill process would be used for disputes arising from reporting discrepancies and would help smooth out the implementation of Cap and Trade for businesses throughout the state. My office will also be introducing two additional measures this year that will attempt to help stem economically hurtful regulations.

• Require that all new or emerging technologies required by any state agency will have to be commercially available for two years before an agency can force it on businesses.

• Require all state agencies that propose a major regulation to prepare a full economic impact report that analyzes both the impact on the state and local economies, as well as the total actual costs of compliance for affected businesses and other private parties subject to the regulation.

Water AB 763 – A two year bill that would create a dispute resolution process for the State Water Board using administrative law judges to resolve any appeals brought to the Board. The current process requires an appeal to a designated board member with their recommendation coming from

staff that makes the initial decision. This process was recommended in the Little Hoover Commission report, “Managing for Change: Modernizing California’s Water Governance.”

I will continue to introduce legislation that will focus on increasing the amount of water we can export through the Delta. Not under it, not around it. In prior years I have focused on the Delta Corridors plan. This year, in an effort to increase the amount of water able to be exported, I plan to ask the legislature to study a combination of Delta Corridors and the Big Gulp Conveyance Plan (BGCP). The BGCP will allow water to travel through the Delta and not be taken until it reaches the end ensuring both the farmers in the Central Valley and residents in the Delta are taken care of.

Assemblymember Kristin Olsen This past year has been full of both highs and lows as the chapter closes on my first year in the California State Assembly. As a former local elected official, I have found the Legislature’s top-down mentality very frustrating and have been disappointed to see how many state legislators forget their local government backgrounds once they arrive Assemblymember in Sacramento. Despite these frustrations, I kristin olsen refuse to let my attitude become pessimistic and, thereby, ineffective. I can also take away many positives from this year, and I choose to focus on those and how we can best work toward positive change moving forward.

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Your Cha mber At Work

Governor Brown has acknowledged that our state has made unsustainable promises for public employee pensions. He appears to be embracing proposals that Republicans have long advocated for and that will help return the system to sustainability. In addition, the legislature has taken initial steps toward curbing Sacramento’s reckless spending habits by making over $10 billion in budget cuts.

One way we can save additional money is by reviewing functions to ensure they are operating efficiently.

Toward that end, I am an inaugural member of the Joint Sunset Review Committee and have helped lay the groundwork for the process of reviewing and, in some cases, eliminating California’s five hundred plus agencies, boards and commissions. Today, these entities are not held accountable and some have drifted their focus away from their initial purpose. We must measure whether departments are meeting goals and objectives and whether they are using taxpayer money responsibly.

The sunset review process seeks to do just that.

I appreciate all of the constituents who have sent me good bill ideas during the past year. In January, we will finish our process of narrowing down the list into my final legislative package for 2012. Many of these ideas have come directly from Modesto Chamber of Commerce members. I have maintained a close relationship with the Chamber this year, and I rely on the insights its members can provide about how the state’s decisions directly impact businesses and our local community.

There are four key areas that I am focusing my legislation on: Government Reform, Job Creation, Education and issues within my District that need specif ic legislative remedies.

to sharing my specific bill proposals with Progress Magazine and providing updates on our successes throughout the upcoming year.

Mayoral Runoff Cecil Russell The November election is behind us; however, we still have the important runoff for the Mayor of Modesto. The Mayoral runoff all state election between Brad Hawn and Garrad Marsh will be an allmail ballot election. The ballots will be arriving in your homes sometime in early January and “My goal this will be due February 7. With year is to four Council positions returning continue to make – two continuing their terms and two being re-elected for another incremental four year term – we will have progress toward a majority of the council with returning continuity. The position of Mayor economic brad hawn is very important as it provides the leadership for the entire Council. prosperity Both Hawn and Marsh have served eight years on the and pride to City Council and both have developed a good working California. relationship with the majority of the Council, as well as California must with the City Manager, Greg Nyhoff, so either candidate should hit the ground running. become more

citizen-focused, transparent, and business friendly in order to become the Golden State again where families and businesses can thrive. ”

There are huge challenges facing our City over the next four years that the new Mayor will need to address. Very difficult decisions will have to be made to keep the City’s financial house in order and the continued struggle on personnel and pension reform will be problematic and will require good management.

As a member of the minority party, I know that success will require bipartisan cooperation in these areas. Both There are philosophical differences parties must work together to address California’s garrad marsh to Hawn and Marsh’s approach on underlying structural problems by reforming government, – Assemblymember how the City should work through Kristin Olsen spurring job creation and improving education because these difficult times. You can review their positions in the all three areas are directly connected to the success October issue of Progress, or you can go online to www. of our state at the most fundamental level. My goal modchamber.org where you can review their complete this year is to continue to make incremental progress answers and statements. Between now and when you toward returning economic prosperity and pride to California. vote, please examine these different approaches and make the California must become more citizen-focused, transparent, and best informed decision possible when you vote. Above all, please business friendly in order to become the Golden State again exercise your right and duty to vote. The future of our City depends where families and businesses can thrive. Our state’s challenges on your vote. are many years in the making, and real substantive change is not something that can be accomplished overnight. Nevertheless, by The newly elected Mayor will present his plan of action at the using momentum from small victories, we can leverage initial Chamber’s March 2012 State of the City event, held this year at the successes into major policy advancements over time. I look forward DoubleTree. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

ch airman ’ s corn er

chairman’s corner

2011 was an eventful year for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Your Board of Directors made a change in the President/ CEO position at the Chamber early in the year. This change in leadership has had positive effects. Some of the key changes are revised bylaws that include increasing the number of board members to 20, increasing the term of the Chairman and Vice Chairmen to two-year terms and adding additional Vice ralph curtis Chairman positions. These changes have and will continue to strengthen the leadership of the Chamber and also provide for more continuity. We also assigned all board members to a committee under one of the Vice Chairmen.

The Chamber produced several successful events in 2011; Annual Awards Dinner, State of the City, AgAware, Business to Business Tradeshow, newly added State of Education, Harvest Luncheon, Oktoberfest, State of the Region, President’s Club Events, Business Before Hours, Business After Hours and finally our New Member Orientations.

The President’s Club Events were particularly successful and well attended. The featured speakers provided information to our President’s Club members which was well received. The featured speakers were new President/CEO of the Chamber, Cecil Russell, City Manager Greg Nyhoff, the new Superintendent of Modesto City Schools, Pam Able and, at our last President’s Club event, Senator Anthony Cannella.

The newly added major event, the State of Education “Building Bridges between Business and Education,” was a huge success with over 450 attendees from educators, businessmen and civic leaders. The outcome has birthed “Expect More Stanislaus.” Your Chamber has agreed to provide leadership for both student and teacher internships.

Leadership Modesto produced another great class led by Keith Boggs.

In 2012/13, Leadership Modesto will be celebrating 30 years of success.

We also took a new approach to Progress Magazine by inviting more guest articles from our members. Progress has featured a number of articles that shed light on unique businesses that are thriving in our community.

Your Chamber got more involved in new member Ribbon Cuttings expanding to Grand Openings of new businesses that have opened in our community. These have become large events which include city officials, the Welcome Team and Board Members.

We partnered with the City Manager to improve downtown. The city repaved 10th between J and I Streets and 11th Street between K and I Streets, replaced a major portion of the sidewalk in front of the parking garage on 11th including more lighting and signs. Additional security (bike patrols) was added, which has been favorably received by patrons and businesses alike. The cleaning of gum from the sidewalks was also accomplished.

We are in the process of renewing our website. The new site will include an advocacy page allowing our members to track legislation and the voting record of our elected officials, a new and improved virtual membership directory, e-commerce and more.

Chamber University will be expanded in 2012 to include more classes and forums to help our business owners and their employees. We will continue to build relationships with our elected officials, our new Mayor and our City Manager to further develop a business friendly environment so that all of our businesses can thrive.

We are proud to announce that 2012 marks our 100th year as Modesto Chamber of Commerce. We are planning a huge Gala Event to celebrate. This celebration will honor companies that have had continuous membership for 100 years. Be sure to read the cover story in this edition of Progress for more details of this planned Gala.

We are pleased with our accomplishments for 2011 and we are looking forward to even more successful achievements during 2012. P

Our Government Relations Council & Land Use and Transportation Committees experienced very successful meetings and outcomes. We provide a strong advocacy to our elected officials to remove barriers to economic growth. We devised a new reporting mechanism as published in Progress Magazine under the heading ‘Your Chamber at Work.’

The Chamber took a different path this year in our local elections. In lieu of endorsing specific candidates, the Board decided to interview all of the candidates for Mayor, City Council, School Board and MID and publish their answers in our Progress magazine. A matrix presented their answers in an easy-to-compare format showing each of the candidate’s positions as they related to financial, leadership and business-friendly subjects.

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The Modesto Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Centennial Anniversary By: justin souza

This year, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce celebrates its centennial anniversary. A host of celebrations are planned throughout 2012, including an exclusive Gala Event in March that will commemorate a whole century of hard work and great success from Modesto’s essential business organization, as well as 100 years of continuous membership from six area businesses.

With this achievement, Modesto’s Chamber joins an elite few Chambers of Commerce nationwide that have worked to encourage growth and development for their cities for a hundred consecutive years. Since the beginning, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce has remained steadfastly dedicated to its central mission: to be an organization of business, professional and industrial community members working together to create a more economically strong Modesto, to improve the quality of life and to make the Stanislaus County area a better place to live and work.

This mission is an ongoing target, but from the Chamber’s inception and through to today, its leadership has always kept Modesto moving toward these lofty goals.

The Modesto Chamber’s History The Modesto Chamber of Commerce was officially created in October 1912 as a successor in both membership and credo of the earlier Modesto Business Men’s Association and Modesto Boosters Club.

According to One Hundred Years…, a volume of Modesto history published in 1970, the Modesto Chamber was one of a number of pro-business organizations which sprouted up in Modesto at the time, only a year after the foundation of Modesto’s first labor unions and before most of the city’s downtown streets had even been paved for the first time.

One of the Chamber’s first major accomplishments has stood the test of time: the development of a new centerpiece to Modesto’s growing downtown, an arch spanning I Street at its intersection with 9th. According to Anthony Pooler, a local historian who has been researching Chamber history, the Chamber held a contest open to all of Modesto’s approximately 8,000 residents in order to decide on the design for the proposed structure, as well as a slogan to be worked into the piece. The final design was submitted by Bernard Joseph, a local Modesto architect, who won $50 for his effort, but the winning slogan “Nobody’s Got Modesto’s Goat!” provoked a firestorm of criticism from across the city, which convinced Chamber organizers to instead go with the second place submission offered by S.R. Harbaugh, the familiar phrase which graces the Arch to this day: “Water Wealth Contentment Health.” Harbaugh was awarded $3 for the slogan.

Over the decades, the Modesto Chamber has spearheaded or been deeply involved in many of the other major projects that have defined what Modesto is today. In the 1930’s, the Chamber endorsed Ninth Street as the main highway artery through town, lobbied for expansions of Modesto Junior College and drafted a long-range plan for a bevy of local improvements including the annual county fair, still a favorite of locals and visitors alike. A decade later, the organization was among the many groups that lobbied to make Highway 99 a

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four-lane highway between Stockton and Bakersfield. A decade after that, sewer improvement became a major focus.

Sierra Small Business Development Center and CSU Stanislaus, Modesto Junior College and UC Merced.

Throughout the Chamber’s history, as Modesto has grown from a tiny agricultural town in a burgeoning state, to a city of over 200,000 residents in one of the most populous states in the nation, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce has changed and grown from a simple merchant’s association to an organization that provides essential support to local industry, boosts tourism, draws new businesses to Modesto and mobilizes Chamber members for the good of the local business community. In this way, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce has been a strong advocate and a devoted supporter of Modesto from the date of its inception through today.

Gala Event Planned On Saturday, March 10, the Modesto Chamber will commemorate its centennial anniversary with a Gala Event at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

The Chamber Today Today, the Modesto Chamber is involved in every aspect of Modesto business life and is constantly working to provide more and better support to its over 1,000 member businesses.

Recent initiatives from the Modesto Chamber include the Government Relations Council, which provides strong advocacy for pro-business legislation in California government and a monthly recap of business-relevant bills explained and contextualized right here in Progress Magazine, as well as Chamber University, a program developed to meet the specific training and educational needs of the local business community by providing no-cost and low-cost access to the faculty and staff at Community College, State University and University of California systems. The Chamber University program has been made available through partnerships between the Chambers of Commerce in Modesto, Turlock, Oakdale, Riverbank and Ceres, along with the Stanislaus County Hispanic Chamber, the Valley

Starting at 6 p.m., the event ups the ante on the Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner by bringing in top shelf entertainment in the form of a live band, video presentations and Broadway-inspired entertainment as well as carving and grazing stations from a variety of restaurants and catering companies that are proud Chamber members. Throughout the event, members of YES Company will be mingling among the guests performing charming period pieces from the last 100 years.

A special section of this event will be set aside to commemorate six businesses that have been continuous Modesto Chamber members since its foundation in 1912. These businesses: JS West, Bank of America, AT&T, Foster Farms, Safeco Title Insurance and PG&E, will be honored with special recognition from Chamber leadership and histories of the firms researched by local historian Anthony Pooler.

For tickets or more information on the event, contact Elizabeth Facanha at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce by calling (209) 577-5757. P

Photos courtesy of The McHenry Museum Opposite page Early Switchboard AT&T/Pacific Bell.

Top Borden’s Dairy/Foster Farms, Modesto Gas Company/PG&E. Bottom Modesto Boosters Membership, 1910.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Har vest Luncheon Voss/ Berryhill Scholarships Awarded

“These 28 hard working students had a cumulative grade point average of 3.36 and had completed nearly 40 units each, going into their sophomore year.”

On November 22, the MJC Agriculture Department awarded 28 scholarships to continuing sophomore Ag students.

Each student was awarded certif icates in amounts of $300, $500 or $900 in accordance with their GPA and school and community participation. These scholarships are funded through the Modesto Chamber’s annual Voss/Berryhill Harvest Luncheon. Presenting sponsor Del Monte Foods and local businesses generously support this event making it possible to present $20,000 to the MJC Ag Department each year.

The students receiving Voss/Berryhill second year scholarship were Mirna Alcala, Lindsey Ames, Joseph Antonacci, Spencer Baptista, Travis Bardsley, Kathleen Bello, Terilyn Bettencourt, Erica Bianchi, Ashley Budde, John Crum, Ralph ‘Rocco’ Cunningham, Amie French, Tara Glidden, Kyle Mendes, Stephen Miller, Craig Miller, Kirianne Olsen, Helen Ott, Kurt Parsons, Ashley Pipkin, John Quinn, Breeanna Roland, Monica Soares, MaKayla Spaman, Emilie Strand, Tamara Tollison, Katie Wagner, and Bastiaan Weststeyn. The Modesto Chamber congratulates all the recipients. Well done! P

Speakers at the luncheon included MJC Interim President Larry Calderon who told students he credits a community college scholarship with helping him choose a career path and encouraged students to look at their scholarships as a new beginning. Also speaking at the luncheon were student recipients, Breanna Roland, of Lakeside California and local resident Kyle Mendes.

MJC Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Services, Mark Anglin said 40 applications were received for scholarships this year, but Photo Courtesy K ristin Platts, Farm only 28 were available. “These 28 hard working News Editor, St anislaus County students had a cumulative grade point average of Farm Bureau 3.36 and had completed nearly 40 units each, going into their sophomore year.”

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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guest column AAA Cares

By Doug W ever, AAA

I am lucky to be a part of an organization that has a long and proud history. AAA Members and employees share a tradition of caring for our communities. Promoting a better quality of life is part of AAA’s heritage. From our tow trucks rescuing you on the road to our insurance agents helping you protect your families, we value a culture that encourages giving to our community, making it a more rewarding place to live. In Modesto, this tradition started in 1920 when AAA opened a Touring Bureau on the second floor of the Chamber of Commerce Building at H & 10th Street. We helped residents navigate early roads, distributing maps and sharing information on detours or road closures.

Today, AAA serves the community through charitable donations, in-kind giving initiatives, volunteerism and educational programs.

AAA encourages its employees to take up to 24 hours of time yearly to volunteer in their local communities—supporting causes they believe in. AAA employees have logged over 16,000 community service hours this year alone!

As a leading advocate for safety, AAA supports programs throughout Modesto. AAA introduces children to lifelong safety lessons through the AAA School Safety Patrol and helps parents ensure that their children are safely secured in their car seats with free car seat inspections and education. Through local AAA funding, organizations like the Police Activities League and the Center for Human Services can provide residents with safety items like bike helmets and car seats. During holidays and special events, AAA offers Tipsy Tow–a free ten-mile tow home for drinking drivers and their vehicles.

For 2012, your local AAA office remains committed to local causes tied to the things we’re good at—safety and security—and we welcome ideas for collaborative partnerships that fit these areas. I challenge you to find something you’re good at in our community and do it! You’ll feel a sense of pride and be rewarded with customer and community loyalty.

AAA partnered with the Modesto Chamber of Commerce to open the AAA Modesto Branch in 1922 at 9th and I Streets.

AAA collaborated with schools and police departments to create school safety patrols like the Modesto Junior Traffic Patrol on parade at the San Francisco Civic Center in 1937. P

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Stanislaus County Library community calendar “What should we do today?”

This sentence gets a lot of mileage in your average American household every weekend. And as we had the discussion with friends, family

Did you know that the Stanislaus County Library has been a member of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce for at least 16 years? Library branches are members of their respective Chambers throughout the county as well. Since libraries are not in business to make a profit, you might wonder why they are Chamber members – it’s because libraries are uniquely tied to the business community.

members, clients and people in passing – we realized that there are a lot of Modesto residents still searching for things to do.

But why?

Certainly among the Gallo Center for the Arts, a handful of movie theaters, great restaurants, multiple farmers markets, and an amazing wealth of outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do “tonight” – right here, in our own backyard… in Modesto!

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The Pack Fitness: Canine & Cardio Circuit

5 Pint Night with Johnny & Kelly 6

MythBusters Behind the Myths

Live Music Friday @ Village Baking Company & Cafe 7 Second annual Andrew’s 5K run/walk & Kids Fun Run

Modesto Modeling Casting Call

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The Pack Fitness: Canine & Cardio Circuit

12 Pint Night with Johnny & Kelly Dr. Abraham Verghese 13 Live Music Friday @ Village Baking Company & Café 14 Scrapbooking Fun at the Modesto Library 15

Get Married Modesto Bridal Show

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The Pack Fitness: Canine & Cardio Circuit

19 Pint Night with Johnny & Kelly 20 Live Music Friday @ Village Baking Company & Café 21 Rock it Scientists @ the Fat Cat 23

The Pack Fitness: Canine & Cardio Circuit

26 Pint Night with Johnny & Kelly 27 Live Music Friday @ Village Baking Company & Café An Evening with Eric Johnson @ The State Theatre 28 Sierra Vista Child & Family Services along with E&J Gallo Present

the 12th Annual Hearts for Children Gala

Beyer High Band Booster’s Casino Night Hometown Heroes: Jeff Moorad 29 International Wedding Festival Peter Rabbit and Friends 30

Realtors have always recognized the value of libraries to the overall wellbeing of a community and often refer to them as a selling point with prospective buyers. Studies show that for every dollar invested in libraries, a community receives four dollars in return. Libraries hire professional staff to maintain library collections, coordinate library programs and assist the public in finding the information they need. In turn, library staff buy groceries, visit local dentists and doctors, pharmacies, department stores and specialty shops. Libraries also pay for local services, such as painting, carpet installation and cleaning, printing and sign production.

Our county library purchases supplies for all 13 of its branches, including light bulbs, pens and printer paper. Studies show that when people go to the library, they spend an average of about $20 around town as part of the trip. Yes, your libraries do bring money into the community.

The Pack Fitness: Canine & Cardio Circuit

For a complete calendar of things to do that are updated every day go to mydesto.com

Stanislaus County residents have shown their belief in the value of libraries, too. They have passed a 1/8-of-a-cent dedicated sales tax three times. This dedicated funding source makes up 87% of the library’s budget. In June, voters will be asked to renew this tax that has supported our library system for 16 years. Picture what an eighth of a penny on every taxable dollar equates to over the course of a year. For the average household in Stanislaus County, it is less than $20 a year. That’s less than one visit to the movies for two, less than one month of cell phone service and far less than one month of cable or internet service.

Some may ask if libraries are relevant in today’s connected world. They certainly are. More than ever, libraries are essential to individuals and the community as a whole. Computers are in constant use at libraries, enabling those without computers or internet access to apply for jobs, work on their résumés and find job leads. More than 2.2 million items were checked out at Stanislaus County Libraries last year and an additional 500,000 items were used at libraries but not checked out.

Children and families attended StoryTimes and special programs, designed to enhance early literacy development. Older children have improved their reading skills through programs like “Read to a Dog” and the Summer Reading Program. Illiterate adults have learned to read with the help of caring volunteer tutors, resulting in jobs for some or the ability to read to their children or grandchildren for others.

The new year brings some exciting new services to the library. A mobile library app is now available for smart phones and other mobile devices. Find the Stanislaus County Library at the Apple App Store, Droid Marketplace and Blackberry App World. Beginning this month, the Modesto Library is an official passport acceptance agent. Passport applications will be accepted 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. E-books are coming in the Spring of 2012. The Stanislaus Library Foundation has donated $20,000 toward the start-up cost of this much anticipated resource that will be free to library cardholders.

For more information, visit your local library website, www.stanislauslibrary.org, get the mobile app, follow StanCoLibrary on Twitter or be a friend of Stanislaus County Library on Facebook. P

12

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

econ om ic d evelopmen t

new member profiles modesto.findangoseek.net is a fun, easy way to discover, review and discuss exciting kid and family-friendly events in Modesto and surrounding communities. Our searchable database contains over 4,000 listings, events and reviews of local businesses, generating nearly 10,000 visits per month. Our targeted audience of parents, grandparents, teachers and care-givers who are actively looking for something local to do with their children makes our site the perfect place for family-friendly businesses to advertise. For additional information, please contact Heather Doyle at heather@modestofgs.net or visit our website at www.modesto.findandgoseek.net.

Pura Vida Shaved Ice and Espresso Bar Guided by the Costa

Rican ideal of the “Pure Life”, Pura Vida Shaved Ice and Espresso Bar offers an array of treats. You will find homemade kettle corn, all-fruit smoothies, organic loose-leaf tea, espresso beverages, morning baked goods and the healthier alternative to any dessert craving—shaved ice.

Zoom through the drive-thru at 6 a.m. for your favorite espresso drinks or bring the family back after work. Using only homemade syrups, this locally owned new business will be sure to refresh your palate. For more information visit www.puravidashavedIce.com or call (209) 566-9632.

Heidi Howell Writing Services helps companies get the word out by providing original text for ads, articles, brochures, catalogs, flyers, newsletters, press releases and web content. Heidi also creates and maintains basic websites and works with graphic designers. Need a writer a few hours a week for recurring projects? Or “another set of eyes” to edit/proofread projects before they go out? Heidi can help. Heidi Howell Writing Services, “the agency alternative,” provides many of the same marketing services as an advertising or PR agency – at reasonable costs. For more information visit www.heidhowell.com or call (209) 550-0545. P { mi nnie’s news b it es } Welcome to 2012! With the new year comes new tax laws and regulations. To help keep you in compliance, the Chamber has current Labor Law posters in both English and Spanish available for purchase. The Chamber sells minnie dodge

a multitude of HR products including handy software for

The Chamber has current Labor Law posters in both English and Spanish available for purchase.

creating and updating your employee handbook and sexual harassment prevention tools. To order your 2012 HR

The COMPASS® is your guide to better health.

Come in for a ZYTO COMPASS® assessment.

supplies, call the Chamber today, (209) 577-5757.

jan 2012

13

eco n omi c dev elo pment

People On The Move Rob Hawks opens downtown CPA office.

Rob is ecstatic to be back in Modesto! Rob has practiced in Oakdale for the past few years; previously he was with a larger firm on Coffee Road. Rob took responsibility for Sue Hollingsworth’s firm December 1, enabling her retirement. Rob’s passion for excellent client service and meaningful connection has created strong client relationships since 1988. His experience ranges from small firm employee, to large firm rob hawks partner, to CFO of a $70M business. For more information, please call (209) 529-4060 or visit www.HawksCPA.com.

Brunn & Flynn is pleased to announce the newest addition to the Firm, Attorney Ricardo Aranda. Ricardo earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Stanford University. He received a law degree in 2008 from the University of California, Hastings College of Law in San Francisco and graduated cum laude. In 2008, he also was admitted to the California Bar. Ricardo has authored or co-authored articles for ricardo aranda the San Joaquin County Bar Association and the California Water Law & Policy Reporter.

In addition, he is a Board Member/Secretary for the ACT Spay/Neuter Clinic in Stockton and a member of the Consuelo M. Callahan Inns of Court. For more information please contact him at mail@brunn-flynn.com or call (209) 521-2133.

Benchmark Commercial Real Estate Services is proud to announce the addition

of Josh Bower as an Associate. Josh brings to Benchmark over seven years of marketing strategy development and sales experience.

His success has been attributed to not only his aggressive drive to build lasting relationships, but also the valuable insight and solutions he has developed for his clients. He will bring josh bower this passion to the regional commercial real estate market. For more information about Benchmark Commercial Real Estate Services, please visit www.benchmarkcres.com or call (209) 576-2240.

Atherton & Associates, LLP is pleased to announce that Kathaleen De Salles has joined their tax department.

Kathaleen has been practicing since 1993 and comes to Atherton & Associates, LLP with a depth of professional income tax and accounting experience. Kathaleen works extensively with individuals and corporations in agriculture, agribusiness, kathaleen retail and the legal and medical professions. de salles For more information please contact her at (209) 577-4800 or visit our website at www.athertoncpas.com. P

{ b u si n e ss B R IE FS } Share your Business Briefs Attention Chamber Members!

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce has added a new section

desktop printer? If you answered no, you are not alone. Inkjet printers can

to Progress Magazine, entitled Business Briefs. All members are

cost more than 15 cents per page for black and over 50 cents for color!

encouraged to contribute information. Submissions should be 50 words

LaserJet’s are a slightly lower but are still around 5 cents for black and

or less and touch on your industry and/or your area of expertise. This

20 cents for color!” -Aaron Kellums C.A. Reding Company, The Valley’s

new section is designed to provide our reader with quick valuable

Premier Office Equipment and Document Solutions Provider.

information. You can write about something that is trending in your industry, quick facts etc. Take advantage of this FREE opportunity to highlight your business! Please send your submissions in a word document to Meagan Lopez at mlopez@modchamber.org.

14

C.A. Redding “Do you know how much it costs to operate your

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Look for

o u r n ew outlet lo cation opening in Janua r y!

DIRECT APPLIA N C E F LO ORIN G AND HO ME OUT L E T 701 K S treet, M odesto

dec jan 2012 2011

15

ne t wor k i ng & referrals

Awards And Achievements Memorial Medical Center named Consumer Choice Award

Winner for 10th consecutive year. Sutter Health’s Memorial Medical Center has been recognized by the National Research Corporation as a Consumer Choice Award winner and Stanislaus County residents’ Most Preferred Hospital for the tenth consecutive year.

The award identifies hospitals consumers have chosen as having the highest quality and image in 300 markets throughout the U.S. “We appreciate that Central Valley residents value and recognize our commitment to provide compassionate, personalized care,” said James Conforti, Memorial Medical Center Chief Executive Officer. For more information please call (209) 572-7289. P

announcements Law Offices of Brunn & Flynn would like to announce the

closure of their post office box and will no longer receive mail at that receptacle. The mailing address for their office is now the same as their physical address, 928 12th Street, Suite 200, Modesto, CA 95354.

Please send and forward all correspondence accordingly. For further information visit www.brunnandflynnlaw.com or call (209) 521-2133.

NORCAL Rental Property Association, Inc. will hold an

educational workshop luncheon, Friday January 13, 2012 at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce from noon to 1:30. Featured speaker is Ronald M. Kingston, NORCAL’s State Legislative Lobbyist specializing in Landlord Tenant Law. Mr. Kingston’s topic will focus on carbon monoxide devices, new retrofit plumbing requirements for, new water conservation laws for all residential and commercial properties, protecting tenants who are victims of domestic violence, credit checks, and bed bugs. Cost is $25.00 Please RSVP to NORCAL at 209-476-0320. P

gift cards available in any denomination *$5 bonus voucher valid 1/2/12-4/1/12 Excludes custom gift cards

1533 Oakdale Road Modesto • (209) 521-8667

16

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

n etw orkin g & referrals

Before dec } Business & After Hours Business Before Hours hosted by:

Business After Hours hosted by:

DoubleTree Hotel

AIA/Mid-Valley Promotions, Inc. and Cash-Dudley Speiller & Torres Professional Law Corporation

Coffee provided by:

doubletree Hotel

AIA/mid valley promotions

(209) 526-6000 • www.modesto.doubletree.com

(209) 529.5414 • www.midvalleypromotions.com

1150 9th Street Modesto, CA 95354

PMB 305, 3900 Pelandale Avenue #420, Modesto, CA 95356

The DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto is proud to be an environmental leader in our commu-

AIA/Mid-Valley Promotions, Inc. is a full service advertising specialties company offering a

nity. In 2011, we made substantial upgrades to our guest rooms, meeting space and facilities

wide range of promotional items to promote your company. We help you find a cost effective

to surpass Hilton’s high brand-standard. We at the DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto invite

way to market and promote your business with custom promotional items that speak to your

you to stay or dine with us and experience our superior service and unrivaled facility.

customers and clients.

Cash-Dudley Speiller & Torres Professional Law Corporation

(209) 526-1533 • www.cdstlaw.com

PROTECTING YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS…

518 13th Street, Modesto, CA 95354 Cash-Dudley Speiller & Torres was Modesto Family Law Center which was started as the private practice of E. F. Cash-Dudley in 1983. Stacy P. Speiller provides legal representation on all of the guardianships, dissolution of marriage cases, and child custody modifications. Attorney Torres is known to her clients as Patti and is trained in bankruptcy law and child and spousal support modifications.

New Chamber Members

Modesto Chamber of Commerc

Genske, Mulder & Co. LLP Bill Young 4803 Sisk Road, Suite 201 Salida, CA 95368 ph (209) 523-3573 fax (209) 574-0224 bill@genskemulderco.com www.genskemulder.com Accountants-Certified Public

Modesto.findandgo seek.net Heather Doyle and Melana Denver (209) 602-5497 heather@modestofgs.net www.modesto.findandgoseek.net Children’s Activities

jan 2012

17

co m m uni ty develo pment

Chamber university 2012

save the date

3rd Annual State of the City

Would you like to understand

to provide 100 business relevant

security threats to your computer,

courses to you our members

or maybe have your staff listen and

Each class will have the

communicate better, maybe you

opportunity to evaluate the

want to start using QuickBooks.

courses, provide relevant feedback

These are just a few of the many

and assist us in growing our

courses Chamber University will

network of presenters and courses.

On March 29, 2012 you will be

your “New Mayor” and how you can

offer beginning January 2012. We

If there is a specific need we have

introduced to the new Mayor, our

support his efforts moving forward.

are reaching out to meet the needs

not yet met, let us know.

leader and the face of business for

of the business membership with

Modesto. You will learn about what

Get your table and tickets while

a cross section of classes that will

The classes we offer will vary from

our new Mayor has planned for the

you still can for the 3rd Annual

assist you the business owner and

one hour to all day, providing

City, his goals and what he hopes

State of the City luncheon. Table

your employees reach your potential

a certificate of completion or

to accomplish while in office.

sponsorships and tickets are on

goals for the New Year.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

City Manager Greg Nyhoff will

sale now but going fast. To make

provide a year in review and his

your reservations and be among

From marketing to social media,

full list of class titles, times and

plans for 2012.

the first to hear our newly elected

body language to business ethics,

dates. If you are interested in

Please look at our website for a

Mayor layout out his plans for 2012,

we will provide 20 -30 classes that

teaching a class, please submit

Join fellow business members,

contact Elizabeth Facanha at the

will help you be better informed and

a course outline for review. All

civic leaders, voters and

Modesto Chamber of Commerce

more educated regarding changes to

outlines must be submitted 90 days

people concerned about local

(209) 577-5757 or by email at

employment laws, taxes, technology

in advance for consideration in next

government. Learn more about

efacanha@modchamber.org

and beyond. Our goal for 2012 is

quarter’s offerings.

209.423.4940

Published by Never Boring Design Associates

18

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

com mun ity d evelopmen t

Leadership Modesto In November, Community Services Day took our Leadership Modesto class out of our daily routines to show us some organizations in Modesto that are fighting to provide services to those in need. The Haven Women’s Center, Parent Resource Center, United Cerebral Palsy day program site and the Sierra Vista Wood Colony School opened their doors to us, and we learned about the ins-and-outs of volunteering for an organization.

At Haven Women’s Center, we heard from four organizations.

Belinda Rolicheck discussed the role Haven plays for women and children who are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Volunteers at Haven undergo 70 hours of training to support their clients through

By: Allison Carroll, Academy Mortgage Corporation

visited the Parent Resource Center, hospital visits, legal proceedings which focuses on education and and becoming safe and helping parents form healthy family independent. Kate Trompetter relationships, provide healthy discussed The Betty Belle Smith nutrition, health care, promote Day of Service, and Jeff Pishney literacy, budgeting discussed Love and financial Modesto, two groups management, striving to increase and education for volunteerism in Luckily, there are the entire family. our community by many in Modesto United Cerebral making it easy—one with the ability, Palsy allowed us or two mornings per willingness and to meet with its year—helping to adult members, inspire community strength to help. who spend days members to become together working involved year-round. on personal goals Kenni Friedman and learning. It shared tips about even offers its clients help with volunteering for organizations and employment. The new UCP serving on boards of directors.

Center will provide services to all ages, with the goal of At our remaining stops, we learned including those with disabilities about the different organizations and those without in activities. and met some of their clients. We

Our final stop was the Sierra Vista Wood Colony School, which helps children with mental illness and emotional problems.

This school focuses on teaching its students to cope with their problems in order to return to mainstream classrooms. Teachers do not punish children for bad behavior, they work with them to help manage their emotions and prevent those behaviors.

During Community Service Day, our eyes were opened to many services. We realized that they are services our families could someday need; all it takes is a lost job, an accident or an inherited condition to change our lives in an instant. Luckily, there are many in Modesto with the ability, willingness and strength to help. P

Local Feel. Global Expertise.

Comprehensive Risk Management Services OSHA Compliance & Injury Prevention Programs Safety Training Seminars and Materials Business and Benefits Consulting Services HR, Legal and Accounting Consulting Dan Mello Marc O’Neil

Marcia Messer Jeff Quinn

Self-Funded Programs and Captive Management

MODESTO (209) 529-3480 l TURLOCK (209) 667-0995 l LIVINGSTON (209) 394-7925 l FRESNO (559) 432-8200 l OAKHURST (559) 683-4610

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Since 1913

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Lic # 0596517

n e t work i ng & referrals

Ribbon Cuttings

Larsa Banquet Hall

2107 E. Monte Vista Ave. Denair, CA 95316 (209) 634-7096

Rai Law Firm

Modesto.findandgoseek.net

MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.

Connections Family CenterDivision of UCP

1301 L. Street, Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 578-5060

the medics plus

PO Box 577921, Modesto, CA (209) 575-3992

1601 Cummins Drive Ste D, Modesto, CA 95358 (209 )491-7710

Alvarado’s California Cuisine & Catering

Studio Warner

1295 N. Emerald Ave. Ste C, Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 544-6511

4925 Sisk Rd Ste J, Salida, CA 95368 (209) 545-3558

Modesto, CA (209) 602-5497

2630 W. Rumble Rd., Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 593-5837

AgSafe

1300 10th Street Ste B, Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 526-4400

BUSINESS CONFLICT ?

www.PMGMediaton.biz 209.529.9128 | 1600 G. St. Modesto, CA 95354

20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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Diamond Level Bank of the West Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc. Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC Doctors Medical Center-DMC DMC Foundation Frito-Lay Company, Inc. MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc. Pacific Southwest Container

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Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Inc. Costco Wholesale DoubleTree Hotel Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation Care Center Foster Farms Dairy JC Penney Company Memorial Medical Center The Modesto Bee Modesto Irrigation District Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball Post Foods, LLC RACOR, Division of Parker Hannifin Corporation Seneca Foods, LLC Sysco Food Services of Central California Taco Bell

Silver Level 5.11 Tactical Inc. AAA AT&T Acme Construction Company, Inc. Ambeck Mortgage Associates American Chevrolet American Medical Response Aramark Uniform Services Atherton & Associates, LLP BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Brandman University Part of Chapman University Brown, Fink, Boyce & Astle, LLP Bunge Oils California State University, Stanislaus Central Valley Ag Grinding/ Central Valley Ag Transport Central Valley Automotive Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Central Valley Nissan Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai Central Valley Medical Group Children’s Hospital Central California Children’s Hospital & Research Center-Oakland Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Citibank Clark Pest Control Comcast Construction Management Corporation Courtyard by Marriott Covanta Stanislaus, Inc. Covenant Village of Turlock Curtis Legal Group

22

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios, Pacher & Silva Del Monte Foods Delta Sierra Beverage DirectLine Technologies, Inc. The Eberhardt School of Business English Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Hospital F & M Bank Galletto Ristorante Georgia-Pacific Gianelli & Associates Gilton Solid Waste

Management, Inc. Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Grover Landscape Services, Inc. Harris Moran Seed Company Heald College I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc. Infiniti of Modesto Institute of Technology International Paper Company ITT Technical Institute JS West & Company Kaplan College MV Transportation, Inc. Magnum Boots USA Inc. McHenry Medical Group, Inc. Mercer Foods Mocse Credit Union Modesto Commerce Bank Modesto Toyota Mraz, Amerine & Associates Nestle USA Oak Valley Community Bank O’Brien’s Market OLAM Spices & Vegetables, Inc. Pacific Gas & Electric Company Panelized Structures, Inc. Pepsi Bottling Group Plastipak Packaging Prime Shine Car Wash Rabobank Raley’s Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc. Rocha Transportation San Joaquin Valley College Seven Up Bottling Corporation Solecon Industrial Contractors Solid Networks, Inc. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Stanislaus Food Products Company Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Storer Coachways Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Turlock Irrigation District US Bank Valley Bio Energy, LLC Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW Versa Cold Logistics Services W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Wells Fargo Bank Wells Fargo Commercial Banking Winton, Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

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Tim Billington, FVP Billington Welding & Mfg, Inc. Billington Welding & Manufacturing is Central California’s premier custom metal fabrication facility.

The company was founded in 1969

by Chuck and Fran Billington and operated from its 1442 N. Emerald Avenue location since 1972, one block from where Chuck grew up on Carpenter Ave. The business currently has over 40 well-rounded tim billington employees who tackle projects small and large and its commitment to deliver projects on time and on budget has built the company a strong reputation for excellent customer service.

Tell me about your career and professional life. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now? I grew up in the metal fabrication business. From the age of 12, I swept floors, worked in the drafting department, ran the CNC plasma, shears, brakes, pushed buttons in the machine shop, started the powder coating division and occasionally welded.

At 19, I joined the Marine Corps and completed a four year tour.

Upon returning home I attended MJC and graduated from University of the Pacific with a B.S. in Computer Science all the while working at the shop. During my senior year and for a short time after graduation I worked for LLNL. At that time I started my own IT Company after acquiring the customer base of another IT business in Modesto. In 2006, my father died in a plane crash and I was given the choice to continue with my business or run the family business. Given the company’s long history and number of employees I chose the family business. Since then I’ve been working to better organize the company and expand the customer base and product lines.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud? Even in this economy, we’re making money.

Many well established businesses have gone by the way side in the last 4 years. Not to say we haven’t had our ups and downs but we’ve been in the black every year through these hard times. Our gross hasn’t dropped appreciably in the last five years because we’ve been really pushing sales and expanding our customer base.

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Family Owned

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What do you think makes you a success? We offer our customers a broad range of capabilities and experience taking in jobs large and small and we are willing to do whatever it takes to meet our customer’s needs. We have an excellent reputation for customer service. Every bit of our business comes from word of mouth from past customers who have been pleased with our service and commitment to excellence. Word of mouth can only take you so far. When we begin to market the production and fabrication side of the business we will be able to get a lot more business allowing us to thrive and grow.

What do you like about your job? Designing, inventing and solving problems. I also like working with dealers from all over the world to figure out what’s going to work for them and what they can sell. Everything we sell through our screen printing equipment division is sold strictly through dealers. Many of our competitors sell online, and that’s fine but when you have a dealer who knows your product, promotes your product, can fix, repair or upgrade your product, it gives the customer that personal touch the Internet or a service tech over the phone will never be able to provide.

With dealers, I don’t have to maintain a staff that speaks the many different languages of the world.

What are your plans for the future? My father kept the company the exact size he wanted it for over 20 years. That’s the way he wanted it and it kept him happy. I want to take it to the next step. I would like to greatly enhance the production side of the company. To build the business up by designing and inventing more and more of our own products to sell world wide; not unlike the Gallo’s did over 75 years ago.

In the last 5 years we’ve expanded quite a bit, and as soon as we see the economy start to improve we are going to put up a new building, expanding our machine shop and powder coating, in turn doubling or tripling these divisions’ productivity in quantity and capabilities.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity? I love Modesto, and it gets a bad rap. I appreciate each and every piece of business I get from Modesto and the surrounding communities. With that said I would like to see the City of Modesto and Stanislaus County foster a more business friendly environment, even if it’s just streamlining many of the governmental processes I am required to abide by.

Prime Shine Car Wash is proud to present The Land of Opportunity.

Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Express is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

Four� Generation

Body and Paint Shop, Inc.

Since 1969 Complete Car Care Center • Foreign & Domestic Fleet Maintenance Made Easy

Chamber Member Since 1982 401 10th Street (Corner of “10th & D” St) Modesto, CA P: (209) 527-0902 | F: (209) 527-4045 | www.loveladys.com

1529 9th St., Modesto (209) 526-1909 Ralph, David and Brad are here to help you. jan 2012

23

Š Modesto Irrigation District

24

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

WORK IN

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

Abe’s Plumbing provides Honestly Great Service for your Plumbing Supply Needs

Service when you need it (Courtesy of Never Boring Design Associates)

Since 1946, Abe’s Discount Plumbing and

Rawlins, from the shop’s large showroom. “But

Electrical has been Modesto’s one stop shop

when that fixture is installed and isn’t working and

for plumbing supplies and the go-to location for

the customer doesn’t understand why, you need

DIYers and professionals alike.

the knowledge base to know how that fixture works and to be able to walk them through. We

From its longtime location at 950 South 9th Street

win a lot of customers because we can answer

in Modesto, Abe’s offers customers a wide range

their questions and provide them the service that they need.”

We win a lot of

Rawlins said that Abe’s even

Abe’s incredible selection is

customers because

gets referrals from the larger

backed up by a team of seven

we can answer

stores when a customer needs

employees, including owner Shawn Rawlins, with deep experience in the plumbing industry and a commitment to ensuring every customer has the tools to complete a

their questions and provide them the service that they need.

a specialty item that Lowes or Home Depot doesn’t carry.

“They’re good bird dogs for us, they send a lot of customers our way because they know whatever it is, we’ll have it.”

project successfully.

Abe’s This customer-oriented approach

ADVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN I WEB DESIGN I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA I COMMERCIAL SIGNS

long

history

of

practicing business basics has

has earned Abe’s a great reputation in the

meant they’ve weathered the economic storm,

market, and ensured that despite the down

but they’re doing more than just staying afloat,

economy, the shop has retained a solid market

according to Rawlins. “We’re not in survival mode,

position, even in the face of competition from

we’re in preparation mode. We’ve got buildings

big box hardware stores. “Anyone can sell

full of inventory, our store is dialed in. When this

a customer a faucet or a shower valve,” said

finally does break free, we’re ready to roll.”

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, or through our 2011 directory at http://www.villageprofile.com/california/modesto.

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.

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jan 2012

25

ne t wor k i ng & referrals

Chamber Calendar

January 2012

12

Business Before Hours:

Location: 1700 Standiford Ave Suite 200 Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

19

Business After Hours:

Location: 3900 Dale Road Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Kemper CPA Group, LLP

Dale Commons Assisted Living

February 2012

9

Business Before Hours:

Location: 1020 10th Street, Suite 100 Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

16

Business After Hours:

Fuzio Universal Bistro

In-Shape Health Clubs, Inc.

Location: 1234 McHenry Avenue

Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

23

Chamber U:

Email Marketing & Social Media

Location: Chamber Conference Room, 1114 J Street

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Facilitated by: Karen Rice, Constant Contact

Help your business make PROGRESS The Number One Business Publication in Stanislaus County For advertising information please call Progress Magazine at 209.526.9136

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

When it comes to CARDIAC CARE, make sure your heart is in the right place.

Announcing the Grand Opening of Valley Heart Institute of Doctors Medical Center.

Valley Heart Institute’s board certified cardiologists offer a full spectrum of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures: • Complete Cardiovascular Evaluation and Treatment • Echocardiography • Nuclear Stress Testing • Heart Rhythm Management including Electrophysiology, Ablations, Pacemakers, and Defibrillators • Cardiac Catherization, Balloon Angioplasty, and Stenting • Peripheral and Carotid Artery Disease Interventions and Management

Get a FREE heart risk assessment at MyFirstHospital.com Bangs Rd.

Dale Rd.

Pelandale Ave. 99

Snyder Ave.

4016 Dale Road, Modesto, CA 95356

To make an appointment please call 209-577-5557

FUNNY, IT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE A DOCTOR’S OFFICE.

Announcing A new wAy to connect witH your doctor. Many of your records such

as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive.

To learn more, go to kp.org/centralvalley.

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