February Progress 2013

February 2013 Vol. 34 Issue 2 modchamber.org

Hea

The lthc a Hea r e: rtbe Our at o Com f mu nity

BtoB Trade Show

Ag Aware

Teaching Tomorrow’s Healthcare Professionals

CONTENTS February 2013

4

leadership Message from the CEO

4

Chairman’s Corner

6

cover story Healthcare: The Heartbeat of Our Community

9 13 25

Community Development Chamber Board Perspective From the Experts Work in Progress

Chairman-Elect David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

16

Economic Development New Member Profiles

Past Chairman Kathy Halsey, Individual Member

20

People on the Move

17

Networking & Referrals Business Before and After Hours

18 26

New Chamber Members Calendar

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

Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA Vice Chairman, External Operations Craig Lewis, Prudential California Realty Vice Chairman, Member Relations Bill Moreno, Fire2Wire Vice Chairman, Events & Special Projects Laura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions Directors Pamela Cullors, Sysco Food Services of Central California Dan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank David Halvorson, American Chevrolet Brad Hawn, CHG Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Steve Madison, STANCO Michael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc. Ron Owen, Bank of the West Chris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents, Inc. Jim Ridenour, Individual Member Eric Tobias, F&M Bank Ruben Villalobos, The Villalobos Legal Group Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah Amy Wolfe, AgSafe

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Business to Business Trade Show

Ambassador Corner

Ex-Officio Bill Bassitt, The Alliance Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College David Boring, Never Boring Design Associates Greg Nyhoff, City of Modesto Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce crussell@modchamber.org

10 Stanislaus Green Team

Tim Splan

Effectively managing benefit options for employees or for yourself and your family can seem complicated in this rapidly changing healthcare environment. As an agent representing Aflac, I enjoy consulting with my account managers and policyholders to learn more about their specific needs to help them maximize their healthcare dollars. As an Ambassador for the Modesto Chamber, I provide a similar service to the Chamber members I visit, gaining valuable feedback relative to their business, advising them of the Chamber event, program or committee opportunities they can take advantage of, and help them optimize their membership investment. You can reach me at (209)204-1733, or tanjore_splan@us.aflac.com. P

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce (209) 577-5757 • info@modchamber.org Graphic Design: Never Boring Design Associates (209) 526-9136 • www.neverboring.com Printer: Parks Printing (209) 576-2568 • frankp@parksprinting.com Distribution: Parks Printing (209) 576-2568

Q:

What’s happening in Modesto today?

A: Everything!

Find the events that keep our area hopping at mydesto.com

Advertising Sales: Kristin Bowker Never Boring Design Associates (209) 526-9136 • progress@neverboring.com

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

FEbruary

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lea ders h ip

message from the ceo

Chairman’s Corner

By Chamber CEO Cecil Russell

By Chamber Chairman Ralph Curtis

This issue of Progress Magazine focuses on healthcare.

We are very fortunate to live in a community with world class healthcare provided by such facilities as Doctors Medical Center, Memorial Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Gould, Modesto Surgical Center and the Central Valley Specialty Hospital opening in early April. These facilities are well staffed with some of the best professional caregivers in our state. I recently had the occasion to utilize these services for an emergency cecil russell procedure. The care and attention I received was superb.

Chamber ceo From the moment I entered the facility and throughout all of the tests, through surgery, recuperation and discharge, my experience was dispensed with the utmost care and compassion. I wish to thank them all.

It is already February and time to address why the business community should not only be interested, but should get involved in encouraging business people to consider running for local off ice. A number of seats are open this election year: Modesto School Board, Modesto City Council and MID Board. Key county positions will appear on the 2014 ballot, including Ralph Curtis Stanislaus County Sheriff, Stanislaus chairman County District Attorney, Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder, Stanislaus County Superintendent of Schools and Stanislaus County Supervisors.

These facilities provide many hundreds of jobs, not only nurses and technical personnel, but administrators, food handlers, service personnel and many more. DMC has over 2,400 personnel, including over 1,000 nurses. Memorial Hospital employs over 2900 personnel including over 1,200 nurses. Stanislaus Surgical Hospital employs 71 registered nurses, and Central Valley Surgical Hospital will create over 300 new jobs in the next two years. In the combined areas of Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties, Kaiser Permanente employs a total of 3,377 personnel, including 900 trained nurses. These hospitals have more than 1,100 doctors serving patients and providing a wide breadth of services. These jobs help fuel our economy. In addition, our community has many healthcare professionals in private practice, ranging from general practitioners to specialists representing most medical fields. Total health professionals in our community represent over 10,000 jobs.

How do we assure that our community has well-functioning government agencies and schools? One way is to see that they are overseen by elected council and boards that include a mix of people who know about f inances and how to run an effective organization. People with business experience take a more business-friendly approach and often make very good school board members, council members and special district leaders.

Many educational institutions in our area offer training to people interested in a career in healthcare. This exposure and training begins in our high schools with help from nurses from our local hospitals. Modesto Junior College offers classes in nursing, repertory care, certified nursing assistant and medical assistant training. Nearly 400 students are currently being educated in a new, state-of-theart facility on the college’s West Campus. California State University, Stanislaus offers six basic nursing courses and four pre-license classes. Several local private colleges also offer medical training. San Joaquin Valley College offers five medical/nursing programs; Heald College offers four medical/nursing classes; Brandman University offers Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate of Nursing programs, along with eight nursing certificate programs, and Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers programs ranging from LVN to radiologic technology.

Healthcare experts agree that “The Affordable Care Act” (ObamaCare) recently passed by Congress will change the way healthcare functions for all of us. Moving forward, healthcare cannot be provided the same way that it has been for the last fifty years; it must, and will, change as we attempt to provide services into the future.

This issue of Progress Magazine features interviews with a few local healthcare professionals. Throughout the year, we will continue to feature more articles about healthcare and the related jobs that help our economy. We are blessed to have the quantity and quality of healthcare that we do in this area, directly contributing to our quality of life. P

4

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free workshop for people considering running for local off ice. The f irst session facilitated by Judy Sly of The Modesto Bee, will be held March 13th at the Modesto Chamber off ice at 7:00 p.m. Attendance does not obligate you; it will simply give you a sense of the rewards and challenges of elective off ice so you can decide whether you might want to be a candidate later this year or in the future.

Presenters are Stanislaus County Supervisor Bill O’Brien, Ceres Unif ied School District Trustee Teresa Guerrero, and Turlock Irrigation District Director Michael Frantz.

There are satisfactions to serving in public office that are not always obvious. The most satisfying will be to know that you have made a positive difference in our community. Join us and see how you can make that difference. P

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{ Co ve r S to r y }

Healthcare:

The Heartb e at of our C om m uni ty

By Justin Souza

Over the last century, the need for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness has been joined by another universal requirement: the need to maintain and promote good health. The need for quality healthcare transcends barriers to reach every member of the population, but as the population grows, providing healthcare to every member becomes a greater challenge.

Over the last few years, Modesto’s major medical facilities have risen to this challenge and have produced a wide range of accomplishments— from technological advancements to developments in patient care strategies—that address the needs of the future. This month, Progress Magazine is proud to go inside Modesto’s three largest healthcare facilities to shine a light on one of Stanislaus County’s strongest and fastest growing industries.

The Business of Good Health Healthcare doesn’t stop at patient care, it’s also a major mover of the national economy. Nationally, healthcare spending accounts for an estimated 18% of each year’s GDP, about $2.7 trillion. As the industr y expands and changes over the next decade, this figure is expected to top $3 trillion and reach 20% of GDP. Much of this sum goes to support the industry’s increasingly skilled workforce of doctors, nurses and the army of staff and administrators needed to deliver quality care to large populations of patients.

Locally, the largest evidence of these healthcare expenditures comes in the form of the world class hospitals that operate within our city limits.

From Doctor’s Medical Center, and Memorial Medical Center to the Kaiser Permanente facility, Modesto’s major medical facilities provide jobs to thousands of area residents, generate significant tax revenues and support a wide range of community projects, all while keeping the residents of Stanislaus County as healthy as they can be.

The 51-year-old Doctor’s Medical Center (DMC) is the oldest hospital facility still in operation in Modesto. According to Warren Kirk, Chief Executive Officer of DMC, the hospital is proud to be the low cost provider of the local healthcare industry. While low cost might imply a compromise of quality, Kirk said that DMC has not sacrificed its level of care to cut costs. “We’re very busy because we have great quality, have managed our costs very well and we don’t turn people away. I think that’s very positive for people in this community.”

DMC has more than 600 doctors on staff and employs over 2,000 people in its main hospital facility as well as its inpatient

psychiatric facility. Last year, this skilled workforce served more than 20,000 patients in the hospital and more than 70,000 patients through its emergency department.

Kirk added that in 2012, DMC was proud to update its daVinci surgical robot—which has been used at the hospital since 2005—to the newest available technology as part of a $10 million investment in capital equipment intended to prepare the hospital for the future.

Memorial Medical Center (MMC) saw its first patient at its Coffee Road facility in 1970. Over the last 43 years, the nonprofit medical center has built a reputation for exceptional patient care. Last year, the hospital had over 21,000 admissions and served nearly 74,000 patients through its emergency department, and included more than 2,600 employees in its payroll.

CEO Daryn Kumar, who has led MMC since April of 2012, said that as an essential part of the Sutter Health Network, MMC is pushing toward an integrated model of care that takes a wider view of community health care.

“The healthcare industry—and specifically hospitals—are not going to be successful over the next two years if we continue to do things the way we’ve done them over the last 50 years,” said Kumar. “We have to move beyond just thinking about what goes on inside the hospital but instead start thinking about care management across all the continuums of care.” These continuums of care tie in preventative measures to keep people out of the hospital, care management to ensure hospital stays are short and effective and strong aftercare services that keep patients from bouncing back to the facility.

The integrated model of care necessitates community outreach, added Kumar, as well as partnerships with organizations which can help support health for the community at large. “We’ve got to create partnerships with folks that we didn’t have to partner with before.

Whether it be the medical group side of things, skilled nursing facilities, acute rehab or other partners that can help manage patients medically outside the hospital.”

Corwin Harper, Senior Vice President and Area Manager for Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Service Area—including Kaiser’s 5-yearold facility in Modesto—also pointed to integrated care as the future of Kaiser’s healthcare strategies. Kaiser—which serves over 264,000 members throughout the Central Valley with two hospitals and six medical offices—employs more than 3,000 staff members and nearly 500 physicians in its integrated care system. The Modesto facility is designed from top to bottom with integration in mind.

“Kaiser Permanente is an integrated delivery system leveraged by the hospital, the health plan and a physician run medical group,” said Harper. “We are integrated together and focused on providing care to a population of people. Our goal is to focus on prevention and wellness and offer a health plan product that is very attractive with a great structure supporting it through our hospital and our outpatient delivery system.”

Dr. Moses Elam, Physician-in-Chief for Kaiser’s Central Valley facilities said that physicians in the health facility also integrate technology to improve patient services. “We’re using [tablets] in our medical center in order to help our doctors engage and provide real time audits for work,” said Elam. “It’s helping us drive performance and hit some great service scores and great service performance which has put us in the top 10-15% in the Modesto facility. There’s a whole potpourri of what we’re already doing with technology, and it’s going to expand.”

Changes to Come Each of Modesto’s facilities is focused on preparing for a future that is as yet unknown. Recent healthcare legislation promises a bevy of changes to the industry, but until many of them are enacted, the full impact is still a mystery.

“We’re all cautious, and until all of these components are put in place, we’re not sure what we’ll need to do,” said Kumar. Across the board, each of Modesto’s major facilities is planning ahead and is looking at the future optimistically.

No matter what changes the future may hold, Modesto’s healthcare industry is certain to continue to offer patients innovative, world class care right in their own backyards. P

FEbruary

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e du c a t i on

Stanislaus County Library Everyone knows that the old refrigerator in the garage is an energy hog, but do you know how much electricity your other appliances and electronics use?

Now, through partnerships with the Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts, county residents can check out power usage meters at any county library to assess the amount of electricity drawn by their home appliances. Many are surprised to learn how much electricity is used even when appliances and electronics are turned off. Armed with this knowledge, consumers can take a few simple steps to reduce their energy use and their electric bills.

Energy saved by unplugging devices when not in use or shutting down power strips can add up to significant savings.

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The power usage meter checkout program started about a year ago when TID donated two Kill-a-Watt EZ meters for each library in its service area. MID made a similar grant last fall to make the meters available in Modesto, Salida and other areas covered by MID. In addition, Watts-Up? PRO meters are available in Modesto and Salida. Watts Up? PRO meters measure energy use over a longer period of time and provide more detailed information.

To place a hold on a power meter, visit stanislauslibrary.org and search (title keyword) for Kill a Watt or Watts Up or simply ask library staff for assistance.

For more information, call (209) 558-7814. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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e d u c a tion

Teaching Tomorrow’s Healthcare Professionals

comm un ity d evelopm en t

Chamber Board Perspective

By Warren Kirk, CEO of Doctors Medical Center

By Tom Nipper, RN, Program Coordinator, Health Careers Academy, Davis High School The Health Careers Academy is a three year comprehensive program on the Davis High School campus open to all Modesto City School District students. The Health Careers Academy (HCA), established in 1992, incorporates all graduation requirements with education about Tom Nipper health occupation careers in a cross-curriculum fashion. Students who complete the HCA curriculum graduate with HCA honors, and frequently at the top of the class.

In 2012, one third of the graduating HCA students were in the top 15% of the graduating class, five with a 4.0 GPA or higher. The Health Careers Academy at Davis is grant supported through the California Department of Education and follows strict guidelines.

The courses within the HCA include medical science, biology, chemistry, English, and history according to grade level. All of the core courses are college preparatory, and some are 2+2 courses with the Modesto Junior College. Our senior English class meets UC/CSU requirements for writing proficiency.

The HCA works collaboratively with local healthcare facilities and professionals to provide current and relevant presentations and job-shadow opportunities, exposing the students to the wide world of healthcare. Seniors are enrolled in one of three ROP health occupation courses preparing them for employment immediately after high school. Next fall, a new course, Sports Medicine, will be offered as an additional capstone course.

An additional benefit for the student is an annual health fair which focuses on student research and presentations.

Students are required to prepare visual presentations, speak publicly, provide blood pressure screenings at public events, and perform 25 hours of community service annually while in the HCA. Having grown up through the ROP program in healthcare at Davis in the early ‘80s, the HCA has a special interest for me. I believe in the students, the path of learning, and see value in education from professionals in the career choice. As a practicing registered nurse, I bring the real world into the classroom with examples, speakers, and more. Teaching the medical science courses allows the students to benefit from my knowledge, experience, and interest in them and their choices. Career technical education is intimately vital to the future of our students. The path of graduation, followed by either college, employment, or military should be encouraged. Teaching a dynamic program such as healthcare enables students to explore potential occupations, be informed about options, and begin the path of successful life styles. P

It’s hard to believe, but a year has gone by and I am happy to have started my second year serving our community in my role at Doctors Medical Center. In the past year I’ve had opportunities to talk with many people about our hospital, and to learn more about the unique attributes of our community. When I was offered the position of CEO at DMC a few things about the opportunity stood out for me.

Warren Kirk

• Most important was the chance to work with a medical center committed to bringing top level care to the community. I am proud to say that Doctors Medical Center is the community’s first accredited Chest Pain Center (Society of Chest Pain Centers), Certified Primary Stroke Center ( Joint Commission), and Level II Verified Trauma Center (American College of Surgeons).

• The commitment to provide care for all our neighbors is also extremely important to me, and Doctors Medical Center provides over $150 million in charity and discounted care each year for those who are uninsured or underinsured.

• Finally, the opportunity to live and work in the Modesto area was attractive to my wife and me, and over the past year it’s been nice to meet so many people whose goal it is to make this community a great place to work and raise our families.

The healthcare industry remains central for any thriving community. As part of an investor-owned hospital system, Doctors Medical Center pays more than $3.5 million in local taxes that go toward the improvement of infrastructure and community programs. Additionally, DMC employs over 2,000 people resulting in a total economic impact of almost $209 million for our community (Salaries/Wages/Benefits and Capital Fund Reinvestment).

Working at a complex organization like Doctors Medical Center is a team effort, and I am very fortunate to work with physicians and staff who are committed to delivering excellent patient care. Also, I have the unique opportunity to work with a local Governing Board comprised of business leaders and physicians who oversee the operations of Doctors Medical Center. We stand together, our Board, our medical staff, and all 2,000 employees in a firm commitment to meet the challenging needs of our community. As health care reform marches forward, Doctors Medical Center will continue to grow and evolve to ensure high quality affordable care, and to achieve our Mission which is to improve the lives of every person who walks through our doors.

I thank you for this opportunity and look forward to serving you for many years to come. P

FEbruary

9

S t a n i s l a u s G re e n T e a m

Stanislaus Green Team

By Rikki Keenan

Rikki Keenan Coordinator

The Stanislaus Green Team has been growing at a rapid rate. In a mere eight weeks, the meeting attendance has grown to over 50 members, nine REACON team members, and several generous sponsors.

It is very inspirational to experience and witness the overwhelming excitement that Stanislaus County businesses are demonstrating to simply be economically and environmentally smart. Inevitably, it has cultivated an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.

Anyone is welcome to join the Stanislaus Green Team meetings, which are held the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Kirk Lindsey Center. There are only a few opportunities left to get a spot on the REACON Team. Green Team sponsorships are also available. A big thank you goes out to all Green Team members and sponsors for their dedication and effort to the Stanislaus Green Team program. P

Stanislaus Green Team Meeting February 21, 2013, 10 : 00 am Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th Street, Suite 102 Modesto, CA (Across from Brenden Theater and right next door to Fuzio’s) REACON Team Members

Celebrating our 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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Green Team Supporters

Front Jeff Quinn, Marc O’Neil, Marcia Messer back Rick Moen, Dan Mello Workers Comp I Agricultural I Health & Benefits I Professional Crop I Commercial Packages I Home & Auto MODESTO (209) 529-3480 l TURLOCK (209) 667-0995 wintonireland.com l Since 1913 l Lic # 0596517

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Interested in REACON Team membership or Stanislaus Green Team sponsorship? Call (209) 577-5757 or e-mail RKeenan@ModChamber.org

When Does it M ak e Sense to Buy a Building for My Business?

By Ryan Swehla, NAI Benchmark Many business owners wrestle with whether they should buy or lease their real estate. There are f ive primary areas to discuss when considering the best strategy.

Start by understanding your long term business and personal goals. Where will I be in f ive to ten years? Do I anticipate Ryan Swehla my business growing or stabilizing? Do I plan to sell my business at some point in the future? What is my retirement plan?

Next, you need to def ine your business’ need for real estate.

Do I have specif ic location or visibility requirements? Do I need to manage risk with regard to business size and length of commitment? Does my business require signif icant space improvements? Does my use need to be surrounded by specif ic compatible uses?

After that, you should clarify your investment and tax strategy.

Where will I achieve the greatest return on investment? Is my money better spent in the business or on real estate? How can I achieve the lowest monthly facility costs? Does it make sense to diversify where I invest my business capital? What tax consequences – personal and business – affect the decision to buy versus lease?

The next question is: can I do it? Do I have the f inancial capacity to purchase a building? Can I afford the down payment and ongoing associated costs? Can I get f inancing for this?

Ag Aware

Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Chamber’s 18th Annual Ag Aware Luncheon, April 11, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at the SOS Club, 819 Sunset Avenue. Our Keynote speaker is Jim Aschwanden, Executive Director of the California Ag Teachers Association and Student FFA representatives.

Luncheon Planned

Since its inception, the Ag Aware program has raised over $130,000 for Modesto City Schools FFA programs. These funds help FFA students travel to state and national leadership conventions and assist with the purchase of new equipment for FFA programs. In addition, the Ag Aware luncheon provides a forum to educate and inform the local business community on current agricultural issues.

Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available for this important event. Tickets are $25 per person and are available for advance purchase at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce office at 1114 J Street, Modesto. Table sponsorships are available at $350 (includes 8 tickets and advertising package) and may be purchased by contacting Minnie Dodge at (209) 577-5757. Call now to make your reservation! P

PEOPLE

ARE THE BOTTOM LINE

Finally, how does all of the above coordinate with real estate market timing and building availability? Is a suitable building available? Is now a good time in the market to buy? Is now a good time to lease? What opportunities are available in the current market? P MINI-SEMINAR: REAL ESTATE DECISIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS WHAT: A short seminar for small business owners and financial professionals on how to make real estate purchase decisions.

WHO: Business owners and advisors making real estate decisions.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 19th 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Greens Central - 953 Tenth Street, Modesto.

SPONSORED BY: Modesto Chamber of Commerce, Delta Bank, NAI Benchmark, Success Capital

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FEbruary

11

{ S m a l l B u si n e ss S po tl i g h t } Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center As healthcare is changing, Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has worked hard to ensure that we continue to exceed in meeting the needs of our residents. The staff of Vintage Faire is extremely proud to provide the highest level of care in the industry. From its state-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy programs, to its family-like atmosphere, Vintage Faire is setting the standard as the provider of choice for the Central Valley. Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation has earned the Bronze Commitment to Quality, a National quality award for outstanding performance in the health care profession.

When you enter Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, you enter a community of compassion. You’ll see it in our people and in our service. We are committed to meeting the needs of our residents, families and community. We strive to serve as extended family, all united in a circle of care and linked by shared responsibility for our residents. It’s this community of compassion and attention to individual needs that we believe sets us apart as a model of quality care. www.vintagefairenursingandrehabilitationcenter.com Phone: (209) 521-2094 P

In celebration of our enjoyment in serving the Modesto community for 11 years!

Dale Commons and Modesto Chamber of Commerce Cordially Invite You To A...

...Trip Around the World

Wine Tasting Silent Auction

&

All proceeds from our silent auction benefit the patients and families of Community Hospice.

Thursday • March 21, 2013 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Showcasing wines and pairing foods from

France, Italy, Australia, California & Portugal

Dale Commons

Independent and Assisted Living Community

Business After Hours

209.526.2053

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

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

{ F ROM THE E XPERTS }

How often should I ge t a chec kup and what tests do I need to get?

By Paul DeChant, MD, MBA, CEO, Sutter Gould Medical Foundation You would think that this simple greatest health care problems in our society – diabetes and heart question would have a simple answer. disease. If you are at risk, lifestyle changes and medications can Unfortunately, that’s just not the case. significantly reduce your chances of heart attack, stroke, kidney Due to changes in our failure, blindness, and loss of limbs. You will likely understanding of the live longer than your parents, so you want to stay impact of preventive care, healthy as long as you can. rapidly evolving medical “The best thing to do is technology, and the natural Cancer prevention and screening is also variation between each of important. We have reduced risk of death from develop a partnership dr. paul Dechant us as human beings, there cancer of the colon, breast, prostate, cervix, with your primary care lung, and skin. The frequency of testing varies is no simple answer. with your age and past history. Take preventive provider (PCP) to The best thing to do is develop a partnership with measures and get the screening tests that your your primary care provider (PCP) to ensure you PCP recommends. ensure you are doing are doing what is right for you.

There are a growing number of immunizations what is right for you.”

From 20 to 40 years old, healthy women should that reduce risks of preventable disease and death, see their health care provider once a year, healthy and recommendations for these change every year men every five years. Everyone should have an as well. annual checkup after that.

Since there are no easy answers, a partnership The simplest and cheapest tests are for blood pressure and body with your PCP is the best thing you can do to ensure you are mass index (for overweight and obesity). Also important are doing what is right for you. P glucose and cholesterol tests. These assess your risks for the

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• Radio commercials on the top stations in

Steve Sereno, Meredith Hamilton, Mark Cook, Cathy Stapley, and Jeffrey Hamilton, with Oak Valley’s Ron Davenport, 209.343.7627

the market KATM, KHKK, KHOP, KWIN, KESP, KJSN, KFIV, KMRQ, KOSO and KRVR. • TV commercials on major networks

“Oak Valley delivers – first-class service, competitive returns, and the ability to work with local people who understand the needs of Central Valley businesses.”

– Hamilton & Company, LLP, CPAs, Modesto

Experience business banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of oldfashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need.

Let us make your banking, our business.

through Comcast • Newspaper space in the Modesto Bee Your message will be included in commercials produced by The Modesto Chamber of Commerce and certain restrictions apply. Production services are also available at reduced rates. Don’t pass up this opportunity to be part of a campaign to educate the public on the importance of shopping locally and gain exposure for your business at a fraction of the usual cost.

Please call Warren Groeschel at (209) 526-9136 for more information.

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

www.ovcb.com Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock Patterson • Ripon • Escalon • Stockton • Manteca FEbruary

13

HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS...

- Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists - Easy access to your personal doctor - Choice of hospitals and pharmacies - Local and nationwide emergency care - Free 24/7 advice nurse - Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.

14

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

I

1-888-936-PLAN (7526) www.hpsj.com

guest colum n

Guest Column

NURSING – IT’S NOT WHAT WE DO, IT’S WHO WE ARE

By Sue Zwahlen, RN, Member, Modesto City School Board One memorable night I was working at the triage desk in the emergency room. I was simultaneously caring for a man who was critically ill, observing a young boy who was grimacing in pain with an apparent forearm fracture and caring for an 85-year-old woman with active bleeding when a man with crushing chest pain approached me for help.

that of a carefree teenager to a caregiver responsible for the lives of my patients.

I still remember my very first patient. He was recovering from a heart attack. I nervously approached his bedside and was surprised to find him looking quite healthy. I prepared for his care by studying every detail of his case. He was my patient and I felt responsible for his well being and life.

Sue Zwahlen

After assessing and proper l y assigning each patient, a pleasant onlooker addressed me saying, “I’ve watched you take care of everyone here for awhile. How do you do this?” Then he thanked me.

His simple acknowledgement of our care inspires me to this day. I will always appreciate that man’s kindness.

At Doctors Medical Center, we have a list of patient rights. The first one is the “right to considerate and respectful care, and to be made comfortable.

You have the right to respect for your cultural, psychosocial, spiritual, and personal values, beliefs and preferences.”

I am honored to serve our community with my colleagues. We are dedicated to giving the most competent and respectful care.

“I am honored to serve our community with my colleagues. We are dedicated to giving the most competent and respectful care.”

I graduated from Grace M. Davis High School in 1972. Soon after, I entered the Samuel Merritt Hospital School of Nursing. As an eighteenyear-old nursing student, I realized my life had transitioned from

For the last thirty years, I have been an emergency room nurse at DMC. Training and experience have prepared my coworkers and me to provide the best possible care to the members of our community.

Nurses are trained to do across the room assessments where we notice a person’s appearance, breathing and circulation.

Helping is natural for us. At a recent mall shooting, it was noted that emergency room nurses rendered aid. It is not only what we do; it becomes who we are.

And we are at our very best when we are collaborating with each of our community partners.

Our team includes multiple hospital departments, education, law enforcement, business and community partners, and pre-hospital providers.

Each person is accountable to the other.

It is an all-encompassing process, but ultimately involves providing the appropriate care, with compassion, to only one patient – the one we are caring for at the moment. P

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15

e c o n omi c dev elop ment

c om m u n i t y de v e l op m e n t

New Member profiles

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Allstate Insurance “The O’Connor Insurance Agency” is

committed to providing our customers with the right coverage at the best possible price. We not only specialize in auto and home owner’s coverage, we also offer financial services through Allstate Financial.

Visit our website at www.allstate.com or come into our office at 2020 Standiford Ave, Suite F3. We are open Monday-Friday, 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. and Saturday 9:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. The O’Connor Insurance Agency is here to protect “Your Wheels, Your Walls, and Your Wealth.”

For more information, please call (209) 247-1824. P

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 684 represents Electrical Workers within Stanislaus, Merced, Mariposa, and Tuolumne counties. We are partnered with Nor-Cal NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) to offer the Central Valley’s most progressive electrical industry partnership. The Partnership represents a well-trained, safe and experienced electrical industry serving the Central Valley, and offers a local five year apprenticeship and training program. We are located at 519 12th St. in Modesto, CA 95354; the phone number is (209) 524-5171. Visit us at ibewlu684.org. P

Manaluna Functional Wellness Center’s exclusive facilities,

Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Plans in California received top ratings in the nation for the second straight year. Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Plans in California again have received an overall rating of 5 stars for parts C and D, the highest rating possible from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).This is the second year that CMS has awarded such ratings to Medicare plans around the country, and the second year that Kaiser Permanente has the only 5-star rating in California. The new 2013 ratings for the state encompass Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California and Southern California regions. P

located at 100 Sycamore Avenue, Suite 200, provide you with access to wellness providers, including experts in reiki, holistic massage, chiropractic care, organic skincare, reflexology and functional medicine.

Our belief is that balance creates health and support through life’s cycles. Each treatment is custom tailored to suit your unique needs, based on our deep understanding of the body and its systems. Office hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or by appointment. Call us for an appointment at (209) 529-2036. P

Ten Kaiser Permanente hospitals in Northern California were named 2012 “Top Hospitals” by the Leapfrog Group. The Kaiser Permanente hospitals represent more than a quarter of Leapfrog’s list of urban “Top Hospitals.”

Of the nearly 1,000 urban hospitals that completed the Leapfrog survey and were considered for the award, only 67 were named “Top Hospitals.” The Leapfrog Group rewards medical centers for their outstanding success in areas such as infection rate reduction, safety practices, mortality rates for common procedures, and measures of efficiency. P

Philip Openshaw D.D.S. would like to retract an erroneous statement

Oak Valley Community Bank, (NASDAQ: OVLY), announced that VP, Commercial Loan Officer, Peter Brown was recognized and received the award for “2012 Most Active SBA 504 Loan Officer” from Success Capital Expansion and Development Corporation. Success Capital strives to provide low down payment, fixed rate financing via the SBA 504 Loan Program for business owners to purchase or build facilities for their businesses. For more information, visit www.ovcb.com. P

in our New Member Profile printed in the January issue. In order to clarify it was stated “Philip Openshaw D.D.S. Specializing in General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry” however, Dr. Openshaw is a General Dentist whose practice focuses on Cosmetic and Implant cases. At the office of Philip Openshaw patients can also have laser gum procedures, root canal therapy, TMJ therapy and patients of all ages are welcome. For more information please call our office at (209) 524-4763 or visit our website at www.OpenshawSmiles.com. We welcome any and all questions. Thank you. P

Keeping Modesto Cool Since 1957 LIC. 872913

AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • SHEET METAL AIR DUCT CLEANING • PLANNED SERVICE MAINTENANCE

(209) 523-8365 W W W . N O R Q U I S TA I R . C O M

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Aaron Struck

Struck Employee Benefits was recognized

by Blue Shield as one of the top 2% among medical benefit firms for growth and customer satisfaction in California for 2012. President Aaron Struck, a graduate of Modesto Christian High School and Leadership Modesto, started the company in 2006. Over the course of the past three years, the company has grown by 252%. To learn more about Struck Employee Benefits, go to www.struckbenefits.com or contact (209) 524-2893. P

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Success Capital held their annual luncheon for members and guests at Jacobs Fine Dining in Modesto. The guest speaker for this event was John Gauthier, owner of 28 Little Caesars Pizza restaurants. His inspirational speech on how he worked his way from pizza maker to owner was well received by all in attendance. Awards were given to Peter Brown of Oak Valley Community Bank for Most Active Loan Officer in 2012 and Modesto Commerce Bank for Most Active Lending Partner in 2012. P Never Boring Design Associates, (NBDA), a full service advertising and marketing agency, has received a gold award from the 4th Annual Pixie Awards for their captivating piece “First Impressions Matter.” The awards honor outstanding creativity in the fastest-growing areas in the world of video and TV production; categories include motion graphics, special effects, and animation. NBDA created “pixel magic” in their commercial entry with well planned and executed motion graphics. “First Impressions Matter” is an NBDA self promotion piece that highlights a taste of the types of advertising solutions they offer. P

n etw orkin g & referrals

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

Business After Hours hosted by:

H&R Block

Kemper CPA Group, LLP

H & R Block

Kemper CPA Group, LLP

3900 Pelandale Avenue #425, Modesto, CA 95356

1700 Standiford Ave Suite 200, Modesto, CA 95350

H&R Block is one of the world’s largest tax services providers, utilizing more than

Kemper CPA Group, LLP, a top 100 firm, is the local accounting firm with nationally

120 highly trained tax professionals in the city of Modesto, and having prepared

recognized professionals who also happen to be your neighbors and friends. They specialize

more than 550 million tax returns worldwide since 1955. H&R Block has 8 locations

in audits, accounting, payroll, tax services, bookkeeping, technology and wealth management.

to serve the City of Modesto. Visit them at www.hrblock.com or to download their

After 50 years of service, the firm still stays true to the vision of Morris Kemper, offering an

mobile app, search HR Block.

in-depth, hands-on approach to clients, as well as exciting career opportunities for employees.

(209) 543-8290 • www.hrblock.com

(209) 521-1100 • www.kempercpa.com

65 + Health Plans

DO YOU KNOW YOUR OPTIONS?

more choices... better coverage Which plan has the most physicians?

What program is the most affordable?

How do you manage your prescriptions?

Get Your Questions Answered.

Call Debbie Sousa at 209.524.6366

www.tsminsurance.com Se Habla Español 1701 Coffee Road Suite 2 Modesto, CA license #0288149 FEbruary

17

n e t w or k i ng & referrals

New Chamber Members Batteries Plus Bulbs

Koupons.com

Scenic Oaks Funding

Jerry Stokes

Rithy Reth P.O. Box 3501 Modesto, CA 95352 822 9th Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 606-8873 rithyr@gmail.com www.koupons.com On-Line Marketing

Tony Avilla 1156 Scenic Drive, #200 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 572-2301 (209) 572-2281 tavilla@scenicoaks.com www.scenicoaks.com Mortgage Companies

3000 McHenry Avenue, Suite #1 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 529-0600 (209) 529-0604 jerry.stokes@batteriesplus.net www.batteriesplus.com Batteries-Retail & Wholesale

Cencal Mechanical Heating & Air Jason Stevens 1254 Lone Palm Avenue Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 522-1124 (209) 577-3074 jason@cencal.us www.cencal.us Air Conditioning/Heating Equipment & Systems/Sheet Metal

Frost Bakery & Fine Foods Shelly Koch 2014 W. Monte Vista Ave Turlock, CA 95382 901 N Carpenter Road Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 523-2240 (209) 523-2240 smkoch3@yahoo.com www.frostbakeryandcafe.com Bakers-Retail & Wholesale

The O’Connor Insurance Co - Allstate

Luke Security Company / Guardnow Franchise Joe Luke 2401 E. Orangeburg Avenue, Suite G75-216 Modesto, CA 95355 (209) 595-3446 jluke@guardnow.com

Michael O’Connor 2020 Standiford Avenue, Suite #F3 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 247-1824 (209) 580-3114 moconnor1@allstate.com Insurance

www.guardnow.com Security Guard & Patrol Service

Universal Service Recycling

Manaluna Functional Wellness Center

Jason Antypas 3200 South El Dorado St. Stockton, CA 95206 (209) 507-6064 jantypas@usrscrap.com www.usrscrap.com Recycling

Julia Bertrand 100 Sycamore, Suite #200 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 529-2036 julia@manaluna.com www.manaluna.com Wellness Center

Celebrate your employees!

Purchase Fair tickets for your employees now and let the summer FUN begin! Group orders of 50 or more Fair admission tickets will receive $4 OFF per ticket.

Your price at only $8/ticket ($12 value). Visit our website at www.stancofair.com for more information.

STANISLAUS COUNTY

FAIR

JULY 12-21, 2013 #StanCoFair

$4 OFF Fair admission tickets (Valid for corporate purchases only) 18

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

c o m m u n i ty d e ve l op m e n t

announcements The Modesto “500” Lions Club presents their 12th Annual Crab Feed March 9, 2013, 6:00 p.m., at the Howard Training Center, 1424 Stonum Road, Modesto. The event includes all-you-caneat fresh crab, salad and pasta for $40.00 per person, take-out also available. The event supports local non profits that benefit special needs children and adults, mentoring programs, service dogs, disaster relief, eye and hearing care and sober grad nights. Lions are committed to providing service to their local communities and the world. For tickets and information, contact Brower Dimond at (209) 521-5568 or pbdimond@sbcglobal.net. P Kelly Services, a leader in providing quality workforce solutions, has been meeting the employment needs of local businesses and residents since 1963 and is celebrating 50 years of business in Modesto. Skilled in the areas of administrative/office, customer service, light industrial, legal, engineering, IT, etc., employees are available on a temporary, temporary-to-hire or direct-hire basis.

For more information on the workforce solutions the Kelly office in Modesto can provide your organization, please call (209) 577-4777 or visit www.kellyservices.com. P Mike Zagaris, CEO of PMZ Real Estate, released his first digital book to iTunes, How to Succeed in Real Estate…from the people in the trenches who do it every day! The book features Mike’s insights about the “Mental Game of Real Estate” and highlights successful real estate agents’ strategies for success and explores struggles and triumphs. This is a must-read book for anyone in the real estate industry! You can download Mike’s book for free from the iTunes Store. For more information, please call (209) 527-2010. P John Lewis, the U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th congressional district, will be the keynote speaker addressing “King’s Spirit Today” at the 2013 Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration.

The free community event will be held on Saturday, February 9th at 7:00 p.m. at Modesto Junior College in the Mary Stuart Rogers Student Learning Center on West Campus, 2201 Blue Gum Avenue, Modesto. For more information, please contact James Costello, Modesto/Peace Life Center, at jcostelo@igc.org or Dan Onorato, MJC Faculty Emeritus, at onoratod@sbcglobal.net, or call (209) 526-5436. P

Help your business make

PROGRESS

The Number One Business Publication in Stanislaus County For advertising information please call Progress Magazine at 209.526.9136

FEbruary

19

e c o n omi c dev elop ment

people on the move The Stanislaus Economic Development and Workforce Alliance

is pleased to announce its recent hire of Steven Ames who will join the Alliance team as Senior Vice President and Director of Economic Development. Ames’ proven background in economics and planning will help ensure the Alliance continues to provide quality professional service Steven Ames in Stanislaus County. Ames comes with over 20 years of experience in project management and economic development. “Ames’ experience, leadership, and track record of success are exactly what the Alliance needs to complement its aggressive strategy for economic growth for the county,” said CEO William Bassitt, of the Alliance. Ames’ first day is January 21, 2013. P

Gianelli & Associates is pleased to

introduce Louis Friedman to their office.

Lou’s law practice emphasizes the areas of Estate Planning, Finance, Business Organization, Succession Planning, and Asset Protection. Lou served at the E.&J. Gallo Winery for 25 years as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He has vast experience Louis Friedman advising family owned and closely held companies. Lou is very involved in our community and strongly believes in innovative solutions. For more information, please contact (209) 527-6260. P

There’s a new Nut on the roster – the Modesto Nuts are excited to announce Justin McKissick as the

Justin McKissick

Yosemite Community College District (YCCD) Board of Trustees elected Trustee Abe Rojas of Turlock as the new YCCD Board

The

Chair through November 2013. Rojas served on the YCCD Board for 17 years, representing YCCD Trustee Area 3. Rojas succeeds outgoing Chair Mike Riley of Modesto. The Board also elected Lynn Martin of Sonora, representing YCCD Trustee Area 1, to serve as Vice Chair. Martin was first elected to the Board in 2010. In other action, Rojas, Riley, Linda Flores and Tom Hallinan were recognized for being reelected to the YCCD Board to serve 4-year terms through 2016. For more information, please call (209) 575-6508. P

S tat e

oF the

C i ty

When: February 6, 2013 Where: DoubleTree Hotel Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Director of Public Relations for the team. Born in the Bay Area, Justin majored in Public Relations from the University of Brigham Young – Idaho and was part of the 2012 Nuts trainee program. Justin will oversee the Nuts community efforts including the popular elementary school reading program & non-profit ticket fundraisers. If you would like more information on any of the Nuts community programs, Justin can be reached at (209) 572-4487. P

Abe Rojas

Lynn Martin

on’t miss Mayor Marsh’s second State of the City Address on February 6, 2013. Join business and community leaders and engaged citizens, to hear first hand the Mayor’s vision for Modesto.

For those individuals that may not have the opportunity to join us for lunch, free seating will be provided to observe the Mayor’s presentation. We encourage the community to be involved and support this once a year event. Learn more about how you can support local government and become involved in your community and the City of Modesto.

Individual tickets are on sale now. For sponsorship and ticket information, please call Elizabeth Facanha at (209) 577-5757 or efacanha@modchamber.org. P

e c on om i c de v e l op m e n t

president’s club Circle Of Influence Platinum level Kaiser Permanente Walmart Walmart Neighborhood Market

Diamond Level

BEFORE

AFTER

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 SunPower

Gold Level 5.11 Tactical Series Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Inc. Costco Wholesale Crystal Creamery DoubleTree Hotel Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation Care Center JC Penney Company Memorial Medical Center The Modesto Bee Modesto Irrigation District Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball RACOR, Division of Parker Hannifin Corporation Save Mart Supermarkets Seneca Foods, LLC Sysco Food Services of Central California Taco Bell

Silver Level 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, Chapman University System 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 Central Valley Specialty Hospital Children’s Hospital Central California Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Clark Pest Control COIT Services Inc. Collins Electrical Comcast Construction Management Corporation Courtyard by Marriott Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Curtis Legal Group 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 MED3000 Mercer Foods Mocse Credit Union Modesto Commerce Bank Modesto Toyota Mraz, Amerine & Associates MV Transportation, Inc. Nestle USA Oak Valley Community Bank O’Brien’s Market OLAM Spices & Vegetables, Inc. Pacific Gas & Electric Company Panelized Structures, Inc. Pepsi Bottling Group Post Foods, LLC Prime Shine Car Wash Rabobank Raley’s Raymond James & Associates, Inc. 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 SunOpta Aseptic, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Turlock Irrigation District US Bank Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW 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:

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY ...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Larry King Valley Hearing Aid & Optical Valley Hearing Aid & Optical was founded in 2000 as Oakdale Hearing Aid Company in Oakdale. The business relocated to Modesto in the summer of 2011 and at that time changed the name to Valley Hearing Aid & Optical to more fully represent the services provided and the geographical locations of its offices. In 2005, the company added a Merced location and last year started offering clinic hours at Larry King Samaritan Village in Hughson. Valley Hearing Aid & Optical provides hearing testing (to determine the need for amplification), sales and service of hearing aids, auditory retraining classes and prescription eyewear.

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 had worked in the durable medical equipment industry for nearly 15 years when I learned to dispense hearing aids. I became licensed in 1995 and after working in the industry for five more years I decided to venture out on my own.

My wife Donna had primarily worked in accounting and business management before she joined the practice for a time when we were still located in Oakdale.

She studied to become a hearing aid dispenser, and recently completed the International Hearing Societies’ American Conference of Audioprosthology. She eventually returned to the practice on a full-time basis when we relocated to Modesto.

Are you originally from this area and if so where were you born? If not, where are you from?

I’m originally from Santa Cruz. I was working for a medical equipment company when I transferred to Modesto in 1989.

When you were younger what goals did you set for yourself and why?

I had always wanted to own my own business and helping people hear better is very rewarding.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud?

I’m proud that we’ve been able to grow from a one office, one-person operation to having three locations, two hearing aid dispensers and a receptionist.

What is the single biggest reason that you have achieved the level of success you have?

I think our success is due to never giving up. I believe that there are always untapped opportunities out there; sometimes they just have to be recognized and cultivated.

What do you like about your job?

In this business, there is one-on-one interaction with the clients that you don’t get in other businesses. My wife Donna and I are both very well suited to the hearing aid business as we truly enjoy helping people. I love that this business provides me the opportunity to meet all kinds of people, and hear the stories of their lives while I’m helping them.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?

In addition to running our own business, Donna and I give back to our community through our membership in the Kiwanis Club of Riverbank. I am a member of the Local Redevelopment Authority Advisory Committee for the City of Riverbank, and Donna serves on the Budget Advisory Committee for the City of Riverbank. We both believe in the importance of community service, and are committed to giving back to the community in which we work and live.

What are your plans for the future?

So far, we’ve experienced many years of steady—and sustainable—growth. In the future, we plan to keep this up! We want to keep growing.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals?

My own philosophy for business is to do something you like and do it well.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community? Why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity?

Donna and I originally came here to Modesto from the coast because it was a place we could afford to buy a house. Modesto was appealing because it was a place where we could pursue our dreams. Not only could we afford to own our own home, coming here to Modesto allowed us the opportunity to establish our own business.

I think of Modesto as a land of opportunity because it’s an affordable place with good, nice people where you can raise a family and have the freedom to prosper. We found the American Dream here, and moving to Modesto has been a big part of our success.

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 Car Wash is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

Celebrating Over 50 Years Of Quality Care * Registered Nurses 24/7 * Long Term and Short Term Quality Care * 175 Bed Skilled Nursing Facility * Pleasant Environment * Inviting and Stimulating Social Activities * Inpatient & Outpatient Physical Therapy * Inpatient & Outpatient Occupational Therapy * Speech Therapy * Respiratory Therapy

* Specialty Dining Menus * Pharmaceutical Services * Intravenous Therapy * Incontinence Service * Wound and Skin Care * Medicare Part A & B * Medi-Cal * Other Insurances Welcome * Family Owned & Operated for over 50 Years

Engaged in your Care & your Life 209.577.1055 2030 Evergreen Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 www.evergreencare.com Fax: 209. 550. 3615

FEbruary

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c o m m u ni ty develop ment

Healthcare Day Judy Leitz, Communications Coordinator, Stanislaus County Office of Education Healthcare Day began with reflections from the class focusing on healthcare plans/coverage. The class was asked to go online, compare their current insurance plan & rates with other insurance companies and get a quote.

John Felton facilitated a discussion on the group’s findings. The consensus was access to services and cost are very important factors when it comes to choosing a plan.

This reflection activity was a perfect segue into the panel discussion on the future of healthcare which set the tone for the day. Mike King, CCO of Doctor’s Medical Center and Daryn Kumar, CEO of Memorial Medical Center, expressed their opinions on how the healthcare reform bill will potentially impact their organizations, as well as the community.

The consensus of the class aligned with the presenters’ opinions on access and cost. A very interesting discussion ensued on the topic of access and

Course Date/Time

The rest of the day was spent educating the class on the valuable resources our community has to offer around healthcare. Thomas C. Truax presented on Health Bridge, an organization that supports transitional care services once the patient is released from the hospital. We visited the Care More Facility and toured Memorial Medical Center - the robotic program and the helicopter were the highlights of the day. During our stay at Memorial, presenters with the Stanislaus Health Foundation and Doctors Behavioral Health Center discussed the Affordable Care Act and Mental Health Issues.

The day ended at Community Hospice, where the class received a tour of the facility from the CEO Harold A. Peterson III. P

Course Description

To register for all SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. classes call (559) 625-4800

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



Performance Appraisals Do’s and Don’ts – SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc.

Specifically, the seminar will help you: • Know which attitudes drive your life, actions and decisions February 22, 2013 • Understand the driving forces in others’ lives 8:30am - 10:00am • Understand others’ viewpoints and be able to dialogue convincingly by seeing the world through their eyes • Become a more productive team player

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Sexual Harassment February 12, 2013 Government Code Section 12950.1 (AB1825) requires all California employers of 50 or more to provide sexual harassment prevention Prevention Training for 9:00am - 11:00am training to all supervisors and managers.

Supervisors- Curtis Legal Group Motivating Your Workforce to Higher Productivity - The Corporate College

Cost

Events are an integral part of how you market your small business or organization. From sales meetings to fundraisers to performing arts and online training seminars, events help you attract new February 7, 2013 customers and members. Learn how to: 9:00am - 11:00am • Professionally promote your event • Reduce repetitive tasks • Monitor and course-correct 

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Course Name Engage & Grow Business: Event Marketing – IMC Consulting & Training

whether or not Americans have very high expectations on quality of service and that if the United States goes to a more socialized healthcare system, we may have to change our views. Both presenters agreed one positive to the healthcare reform is a focus on a more collaborative approach where providers (primary care physicians, hospitals, convalescent/rehabilitation facilities, etc.) work together to deliver high quality comprehensive care.

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Done poorly, even with good intentions, performance appraisals can lead to aggravation,

February 26, 2013 anger, and conflict instead of providing focus and motivation for improved performance and 10:00am - 12:00pm career development. Learn the top mistakes managers make in the appraisal process and how to avoid them, making the process in your organization a positive one.

Members $10.00 Non-Members $20.00 Members $30.00 Non-Members $40.00 Members $20.00 Non-Members $30.00 Members $20.00 Non-Members $40.00

Adult, Child & Infant CPR and First Aid Training – The Medics Plus

March 2, 2013 8:00am - 3:00pm

Learn how to administer CPR and First Aid for adults, children, and infants. You’ll learn how to handle emergency situations, take basic precautions to prevent disease transmission, care for injuries or sudden illness until advanced medical help arrives, help someone in breathing and cardiac emergencies, administer chest compressions and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This class also teaches you to care for life-threatening bleeding, sudden illness, shock and injury.

Members $40.00 Non-Members $50.00

What You Can Do Today to Make a Better Tomorrow for your Business- Never Boring Design Associates

March 7, 2013 8:00am - 9:30am

It doesn’t take a big budget to make a big difference for your business. Marketing experts from Never Boring Design will speak on how to ensure that you’re making the most of your business’ low hanging fruit and your existing customers. Find out some easy, cost-effective ways you can solidify your customer base and start to expand your market share today.

Members $10.00 Non-Members $20.00

Getting Started with E-mail Marketing - IMC Consulting & Training

Email Marketing: • Choose from over 450 email templates designed for every type of industry or theme • Promote and link to your social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn from your emails March 19, 2013 • Make it easy for customers to share your email message through social media with our 9:00am - 11:00am Social Share toolbar • Check out your email’s success including: Open rates, click-throughs, bounces, and more • Grow your subscriber list right from your Facebook page, website, or mobile phone

Dynamic Communications – The Corporate College

March 22, 2013 • Knowing your own behavioral style 8:30am - 10:00am • Identifying the behavioral style of others

This workshop focuses communication behavior: • Blending your sales type to improve communication

*All Chamber University courses are provided at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce; call the Chamber to register: (209) 577-5757.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Members $10.00 Non-Members $20.00 Members $20.00 Non-Members $30.00

WORK IN

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

Modesto-based MedAmerica Billing Services Helps Keep the County’s Emergency Rooms Running

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

MedAmerica Billing Services has deep Modesto

One challenge that the company has faced

roots. The company, which got its start in 1975

is the pressure to outsource. As more and

as a small billing office serving Downey Park

more medical companies cut costs by moving

Radiology, has seen a spate of changes—both in

their billing services overseas, Proffitt says the

name and in ownership—over the years, but its

company has chosen to resist. “We wanted to

ties to the Modesto area have never loosened.

continue to foster hiring, not only in the US but in our community.”

Today, MedAmerica Billing Services stands as one of the area’s major local

“We’re affording a lot of local

employers with a total

folks the opportunity to build a

of 787 employees—most

career and learn a skill. I’m really

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 Design 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

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

the company’s 100,000+

the company overcame the

square foot main facility

pressure to outsource.

cost challenge by instituting

As more and more medical

technology changes that would

on

Cummins

Drive—

who handle billing for

companies cut costs

emergency room physicians

by moving their billing

Services’ clients the efficiency

across eight states. Despite

services overseas, Proffitt

and price reduction they were

says the company has

looking for, without sacrificing

its

size,

MedAmerica

Billing is still one of those companies that often fly

chosen to resist. ”

offer

MedAmerica

Billing

its American workforce.

under the radar of the

The company’s success at

local community, said CEO

tackling its myriad challenges

Jimmie Proffitt. “Since we don’t do business with

is evident in its bottom line. The company has

a lot of people in town, we end up being kind of

experienced growth of nearly 20% over the last

a back office operation. You wouldn’t notice us

two years and expects continued success in the

when you’re driving around.”

future, even as the medical industry sees some

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 2012 directory at 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.

major shifts. As those shifts come into effect, As the medical industry has evolved over the

MedAmerica Billing Services will continue to work

last 38 years, MedAmerica Billing Services has

to deliver a superior product for its physician

been challenged to stay ahead of the curve.

clients locally and across the country. P

neverboring.com

proud of that.” Proffitt said that

company has faced is the

•

“One challenge that the

© Never Boring Design

of which are located at

FEbruary

25

ne t w ork i ng & referrals

{ m i n ni e’s n e w s b i t e s } The new Affordable Care Act will affect all

Chamber Calendar

businesses and individuals in the coming years and it is important we understand it.

February 2013

6

Business Before Hours:

Luncheon

Heald College Location: 5260 Pirrone Court Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

20

Stanislaus Green

Location: DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th Street Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Business Before Hours:

Team Meeting

Inperspective Photography Location: 110 Santa Barbara Avenue Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

Location: Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th Street Plaza Time: 10:00 am - 11:00am

21

Business After Hours:

Dale Commons Assisted Living Location: 3900 Dale Road Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Stanislaus Green

Team Meeting

Location: Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th Street Plaza Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

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Business After Hours:

Galletto Ristorante Location: 1101 J Street Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

we will need help from experts, be it from minnie dodge

the medical point of view or from that of insurance and the changes employers

should plan for. Please submit your articles or seminar topics to

14

20

and feature special articles in Progress Magazine throughout the year. However,

14

State of the City

To this end, the Chamber will hold seminars

March 2013

me and I will contact you. Thank you!

P

Lic. # 724566

Your comfort

is our business.

523-4578 dehartinc.com

26

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

FirST with the da Vinci

®

robotic technology.

SeCoNd

to none in patient care.

When it comes to minimally invasive surgery, the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System sets the standard.

We were the first hospital in the area to perform surgeries using the da Vinci® robot, and our specially trained surgical team has performed more than 800 procedures with it since August, 2007. Now we’re bringing our patients the newest da Vinci® Si Surgical System, which means even less pain and virtually no scarring. It’s just one more example of the cuttingedge technologies that are used at Doctors Medical Center every day. While the da Vinci® robot sets the standard for technology, DMC doctors set the bar for excellent patient care.

The newest da Vinci® Si surgery technology offers: • Minimally invasive gynecological, urological, and general surgery procedures • Significantly less pain • Virtually no scarring • Lower risk of infection • Shorter hospital stay • Minimal blood loss • Faster recovery

New aNd improved Technology for general surgery virtually scarless, single-site incision

facebook.com/dmcmodesto

To find out if you are a candidate for a da Vinci® procedure, visit www.dmc-modesto.net/davinci.html or call 866-715-6902 for a physician referral.

FEbruary

27

RANKED “highEst iN mEmbER sAtisfActioN”

by J.D. PowER AND AssociAtEs. *

We’re proud to be ranked “Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in California.”

From our unique integrated care teams and innovative electronic medical records system to convenient Web-based tools and mobile apps, we’re dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care possible. Because as rewarding as it is to get a thumbs-up from you, it’s even more rewarding when we can give your health a thumbs-up. For other ways we’re helping our members thrive, visit kp.org/thrive

*Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in the California region in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2012 U.S. Member Health Plan Study.SM Study based on 32,868 total member responses measuring eight plans in the California region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2011–January 2012. Your experience may vary. Visit jdpower.com.