Progress Magazine October 2012

October 2012 Vol. 33 Issue 10 modchamber.org

Small Business:

Major Impact in Stanislaus County 51st Harvest Lunch Cover Photo by Studio Warner

Book Club in a Box

Senator Dianne Feinstein Visits Modesto

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01124

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

CONTENTS October 2012

4

leadership Message from the CEO

5

Arch Rennovation Sponsors

6

cover story Small Businesses Make a Major Impact in Stanislaus County

8

Education Heald College’s S.P.I.E. Internship

11

Book Club in a Box

Community Development 15 Chamber Board Perspective 25 Work in Progress

Chairman Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group Chairman Elect David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates Past Chairman Kathy Halsey, Individual Member

20 20

Economic Development People on the Move New Member Profiles

Vice Chairman of Member Relations Bill Moreno, Fire2Wire

23

Land of Opportunity

Vice Chairman of Events & Special Projects Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions

16 17 20 26

Networking & Referrals Ribbon Cuttings Business Before and After Hours New Chamber Members Calendar

13

Government Relations U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein Visits Modesto

Vice Chairman of Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA Vice Chairman of External Operations Dan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank

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 Steve Madison, STANCO Michael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc. Ron Owen, Bank of the West Chris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents, Inc. James Ridenour, Individual Member Ruben Villalobos, The Villalobos Legal Group Laura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Small Business and Our Local Economy

Ambassador Corner

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

melissa berry

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:

Webster’s Dictionary defines Ambassador “an authorized representative or messenger.”

I define the Chamber Ambassadors as “connectors.” We naturally like to connect the people in our sphere of influence to the things, products, people, and relationships that they are looking for. The Chamber Ambassador Program is a great way to make more connections. I love having the opportunity to meet with Chamber Members and find out more about their businesses: What differentiates them in the market place? What are their main goals and challenges? What keeps them up at night? All of this helps me to make more connections for others and for myself. This program has given me the opportunity to learn about many businesses that I otherwise would not have known about. The next time an Ambassador calls on your business, make a connection! Tell them about your business you never know where it might lead. For more information contact Melissa Barry, “The Facilitator,” with ITSolutions|Currie at (209) 338-3562 or mbarry@itscurrie.com. P

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 On the cover: Local small business.

List located on page 4.

Photo by: Studio Warner

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

October 2012

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lea ders h ip

message from the ceo

By Chamber CEO Cecil Russell

In this issue of Progress, we are featuring members that represent the small business community of Modesto. There are many reasons to feature this group in October.

They make up a large percentage of our membership and are very important to our local economy. They employ thousands and they continue to create jobs and opportunity in our community. They cecil russell invest their profits in the community Chamber ceo and constantly give back, supporting charities and local youth programs. The dollars that are spent locally circulate up to four times, creating more economy and tax dollars that in turn pay for important services, like police and fire, departments that keep our city healthy. Please take time to read the articles in this issue and in future issues of Progress, and learn more about the local businesses in our community.

The election coming up in November will be one of the most important that we will ever face. The future direction of our country rests on the outcome of our national election. We will be choosing our President, our representatives to Congress, one Senator and one member of the House of Representatives. The financial condition of our country and our economy is at risk.

The candidates vastly differ on the solutions they offer. Please listen carefully to the substance and basic fundamentals that these candidates present, and then vote for who you believe offers the best 47 40

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

solutions and will represent our country, not just over the next few years, but for generations to come. We will also be voting on our local State officials, our Assembly and State Senator. The outcome of these races could change the balance of power in Sacramento.

We cannot, nor should we, elect people who will continue to put burdens on our businesses to the degree that they cannot afford to stay in business or cannot afford to expand and create jobs. The Governor’s tax measure puts business at risk, creating more taxes that could slow or stop the economic growth we have only recently begun to see. If the tax initiative does not pass, education will be put at further risk with the threatened cuts. Again, study the issue and vote for the best solution.

I close on the subject of the Modesto Arch. By now you should know that we are making progress on the preservation project for the Modesto Arch. Everything is progressing on time and, thanks to many volunteers and donors, we are planning a huge celebration on October 26. The party kicks off with a parade of 100 cars, one from each year 1912-2012, followed by the burying of the time capsule and finally the relighting of the Arch.

Many thanks to Brenden/Mann Foundation, Doctors Medical Center, The Modesto Garden Club, Beard land Improvement Company, Kaiser Permanente and to all donors for their generous contributions.

Refer to page five for the full list of sponsors. Keep watching the exciting progress as we recapture the glory of the Modesto Arch.

P

1. Katherine Passmore, Johnson & Associates CPA's, Inc. 2. Kathryn Knightsby, Kathryn Knightsby Real Estate Associates 3. Susie Fagundes, Intrinsic Elements 4. Nancy Hawn, C’est Joli 5. Mariana Harmon, Harmon Pest Control 6. Joanne Ramos, Village Baking Company 7. Mary Farinacci, Mary’s Pet Project 8. Janice Jones, J’s R Us Travel 9. Donna Noeller, Central West Ballet 10. Michelle Van Artsdalen, Intrinsic Elements 11. Bob Harmon, Harmon Pest Control 12. Jenna Harvey, Pura Vida Shaved Ice 13. Ryan Woods, Pura Vida Shaved Ice 14. Sarah Grover, Portico 15. Marianne Russo, Construction Management Corp.

16. Bruce Russo, Construction Management Corp.

17. Mike Robinson, Subliminally Fresh 18. Jaimi Corona, Once Upon A Child 19. Marilyn Corona, Once Upon A Child 20. Michelle Donaldson, Acacia Park Nursing & Rehab Center 21. Larry Tate, The Auto Shop 22. Charles Brunn, Law Offices of Brunn & Flynn 23. Rosalyn Wyatt, Studio V Pilates & Fitness 24. Jennifer Jackson-Romero, Studio V Pilates & Fitness 25. Tracy Ladd, CentralValleyJobs.Com

26. Martha Passalaqua, Law Offices of Martha L. Passalaqua 27. Donna King, Valley Hearing Aid & Optical 28. Anna Vieira, Classic Wine Vinegar

Company, Inc. 29. Bret Lampman, The Choku-Rei Center 30. Emma Porter, Portico 31. Sue Rogers, Studio V Pilates & Fitness 32. Victoria Popoff, Studio V Pilates & Fitness 33. Julie Orona, Never Boring Design Associates 34. Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts

by Jeremiah 35. Eddi Marie Julian, Beckles Candies & Gifts 36. Jim Julian, Beckles Candies & Gifts 37. John Welsh, The Choku-Rei Center 38. Jonathan Sciabica, Nick Sciabica & Sons 39. Michael K nightsby Kathryn, Knightsby Real Estate Assosciates 40. Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions 41. Pam O’Brien, At Home 42. Sue Fenton, At Home 43. Brad Hawn, CHG 44. Cynthia Coughlin, Central West Ballet 45. Joe Rossini, Rossini’s Formalwear 46. Greg Kyler, City Signs 47. Rene Davelny, Central West Ballet 48. Mike Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.

Arch Restoration Sponsors

Platinum

Beard Land Improvement Company Brenden Mann Foundation Care 1st Health Plan Doctors Medical Center Kaiser Permanente Modesto Garden Club

Gold

Corollo Engineers The Lyons Family Stanislaus Food Products

Bronze

AT&T Christine Beckstrom Covanta Stanislaus, Inc. Downtown Improvement District Mark Driver Electrical Works Union IBEW Local 684 David Geer Modesto Confidential & Management Association Modesto Convention & Visitors Bureau Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc. Prime Shine Car Wash Sierra Pacific Distribution Storer Transportation

Honorable Donors

Costa Family Foundation Franklin & Downs Funeral Homes

Friends of the Arch Paul Baxter Wendy Campopiano Karlene Duckart Judith Windsor

Contributors

Acme Construction Allied Concrete Billington Welding & Manufacturing Inc. Ceres Pipe & Metal City Signs CHG Collins Electrical Custom Komfort Construction Denton Inc. Design Metals ET Abatement Inc. FYFE Co. LLC Modesto Garden Club Joaquin Painting, Inc.

Luis Aguilar Plastering North Modesto Kiwanis Club Modesto Kiwanis Club Safe-T-Lite of Modesto Sherwin Williams Paint Store Volvo Rents Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions Wille Electric Supply Co., Inc.

Arch Bar Contributors

American Chevrolet Beckles Gifts & Candies Boyett Petroleum Brunn & Flynn Burnside Body Shop Cash-Dudley Speiller & Torres Professional Law Collins Electrical DoubleTree Hotel Modesto Convention & Visitors Bureau Never Boring Design Associates Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group The Auto Shop

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 26, 2012! You will not want to miss the celebration of the century! Join our community as we celebrate the restoration and rededication of the Modesto Arch! The Modesto Chamber of Commerce and the City of Modesto sincerely thank all who have donated or contributed to the restoration of the Arch! Sponsorships and donations are still welcome! The restoration of the Arch will be a continued effort and the Arch still needs your support. To make donations and contributions please contact the Chamber at (209) 577-5757. More Sponsors to come...

October 2012

5

{ Co ve r S to r y }

Small Businesses Make a Major Impact in Stanislaus County

By Justin Souza

From sea to shining sea, America is the nation of small business.

From businesses run part-time from home offices to companies in operation for decades with scores of employees, small businesses comprise a major segment of our nation’s economic strength and contribute mightily to the economic health of our region.

Throughout the United States, small businesses account for a large serving of existing employment, bring in the lion’s share of tax revenue that keep the community running and, as the country experiences its slow economic uptick, it is small businesses that are overwhelmingly adding new jobs to the economy.

One of the key challenges that economic statisticians face is simply quantifying what constitutes a small business, says Randy Svedbeck, Research Manager for the Stanislaus Economic Development & Workforce Alliance’s Business Resource Center. “The Office of Advocacy from the SBA [the U.S. Small Business Administration] draws the cutoff at 500 employees or less, but that’s probably a little higher than what most consider a small business.” Statistics from the SBA indicate that businesses with fewer than 500 employees

make up around 99.7% of U.S. employer firms and a whopping 64 percent of new private-sector jobs, nationwide, making small business the most active segment of the business community.

According to Svedbeck, some of the difficulty in defining what constitutes a small business is due to the varied needs of different industries. “What might be small in manufacturing might be big in retail. Just to be effective in certain industries now, you have to get to scale.” But Svedbeck adds that the Alliance’s market is primarily with the segment of businesses that most often come to mind when you seek to define a small business: “people who are starting businesses or who are part of a smaller operation like a family owned business, even if that’s grown to a large staff.”

Small Business in Stanislaus County

Whatever definition you use, it’s clear that small businesses are booming in Stanislaus County. According to research gathered by the Employment Development Department (EDD), there are more than 14,000 small businesses in operation within Stanislaus County.

We’re seeing the beginning of recovery in the small business community.

– Kurt Clark, Director, Small Business Development Center

These businesses employ more than 120,000 county residents and account for over $4 billion in annual payroll. The largest small business employers are in the manufacturing and service industries with almost 10,000 local small businesses in operation as of the end of 2011. However, the bulk of the county’s small businesses have less than ten employees, and, on average, around half are sole proprietorships or home businesses that get by with only the entrepreneur on the payroll.

According to Svedbeck, the entrepreneurial model of small business has seen a boom in recent years. “One of the trends we’ve seen in the data is that while a lot of midsized and larger companies are losing a little bit of employment, individuals are out creating their own opportunities. When the job market is really tight, it can be a good time for people with the skills or expertise to take a shot, especially if they’ve always had a dream of establishing their own business.” While not all of these businesses will take off, many will flourish. Tough economic conditions often result in a boom of small businesses that are uniquely positioned in new or underutilized niches in the marketplace. As these businesses develop, they add to the economic diversity of the region.

As the local economy recovers, the small business market is showing major signs of improvement, says Small Business Development Center Director Kurt Clark. “We’re seeing the beginning of recovery in the small business community. Three or four years ago, I saw a lot of small businesses coming in looking for capital to survive, but now I see more and more small businesses come in looking to expand and add equipment or employees.”

According to a recent survey by the SBDC, more than half of all local small businesses are expecting an increase in revenues and profits over the coming year, and more than 40% expect to add on workers in the next 12 months. Svedbeck indicated that this is a hopeful sign for the local economy, and indicates a turnaround from the outlook in recent years.

The Small Business Connection

While it can be difficult to define a small business by employee size, one particular factor ties most small businesses together: their focus on customer service.

Customer service is important to every business. But for a small business, especially one serving an established customer base, delivering exceptional customer service is essential. “We love our

customers, and we have loyal people come through who have become part of the family,” says Jenna Harvey, co-owner of Pura Vida Shaved Ice, a local business established in 2011. “People really seem to feel accountable when you establish a relationship with them. People come in, we know their orders, we ask about their kids, we know what’s going on in their lives. That’s because we’re small enough that we can remember them.”

Eddi Marie Julian, owner of Beckles Candies and Gifts, echoes this sentiment, “We love Modesto and we enjoy our customers. Many of them have been loyal for years and we’ve developed friendships with them. We have even seen children grow into adults with their own youngsters!”

Alongside this commitment to customer service, many small businesses also prioritize their commitment to the community. “Modesto’s tight knit community and those who love it offer support of all kinds,” said Joanne Ramos, owner of Village Baking Company.

“I would not want to do business anywhere else.”

No matter the definition, small businesses make up a large portion of Stanislaus County’s economy. From the entrepreneur just getting started to the established and longrunning family business, small businesses push our county toward the future and their success reflects the success of Modesto as a whole.

This month, do your community a favor: go out and support your favorite local small business! P

edu Educa cation tio n

Heald College’s s.p.i.e. internship

By Richard Geraghty For most, summer breaks are a time of gathering around the barbeque grill, long summer nights, family vacations and, most importantly, no school or homework. For Stanislaus Partners in Education (S.P.I.E.) interns Jerry Ochoa and Sandra Blair, it was quite the opposite. For them, summer brought on meetings, deadlines, trainings and even the occasional homework assignment.

This year, Heald College Modesto was given the opportunity to partner with S.P.I.E. and host both Jerry Ochoa, Guidance Counselor from Modesto High School, and Sandra Blair, Guidance Counselor from Turlock High School. Both Jerry and Sandra spent a week at Heald College Modesto shadowing Directors and staff in search of an understanding of Private Education and its potential as a viable option for recent and upcoming high school seniors.

Roving from department to department, Jerry and Sandra spent time in the Admissions department learning about the process each Admissions Advisor takes to partner with potential students, understand their needs and potential obstacles, and create a plan of action.

From there; Sandra and Jerry moved onto Financial Aid where they were exposed to all of the different financing options students can select, which range from scholarships and grants to both federal and private student loans. Jerry and Sandra learned that students are never alone in the decision making process.

Each student is assigned a Financial Aid Advisor who ensures that whatever financing combination the student chooses, it will be the least impactful option when it comes time to repay what he or she borrowed.

The next stop on the tour landed them in Academics and Student Services where they spent time learning about the registrar, student records, the instructors, Program Directors and the Library and Learning and Resource Center. The last stop on the tour was in Career Services where both interns learned about all of the wonderful resources offered to “in school” students as well as graduates. Resources range from job placement assistance, career fairs, advisory boards, resume help, workshops and inclass presentations.

The partnership with Heald College Modesto and S.P.I.E. was a huge success and we look forward to a continued partnership and greater involvement in the future. P

8

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

lead ersh ip

your chamber at work S tanislaus County Afford able Housi n g Co rp o ration Com p l e te s R e n ovat ion Project at 90 1 Cal i fo rn i a Stre e t, M o d e s to

By Steve Madison, Chamber Board Member and Government Relations Council Chair

Steve Madison

A major renovation project to update an apartment complex serving disabled adults has been completed, announced the Stanislaus County Affordable Housing Corporation (STANCO).

Late last year Farmers & Merchants Bank submitted a proposal to the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco to access affordable housing program funding to renovate the 18-unit complex at 901 California Street in Modesto. The F&M application scored well and the Federal Home Loan Bank provided $199,000 in subsidy to renovate the apartment complex.

upgrades. STANCO utilized area contractors and all building materials were purchased locally.

The project included placing a new heat refractive roof over the complex, installing energy-efficient windows, replacing siding and decking, electrical upgrades, improving outdoor

“We are impressed with the magnitude of improvements that were accomplished within the confines of the funding,” said Glenn Hutsell, manager of Consumer and Family Affairs for Stanislaus County Behavioral Health Services.

STANCO is contracted by the county to provide housing for homeless persons with mental health disabilities.

lighting and landscaping upgrades.

STANCO worked closely with F&M Bank as the construction management team and developer for the project. STANCO additionally partnered with the MID and PG&E, both of which provided an additional $17,500 in funding and in-kind labor to install improvements to reduce energy consumption.

The project included placing a new heat refractive roof over the complex, installing energy-efficient windows, replacing siding and decking, electrical upgrades, improving outdoor lighting and landscaping

According to Julie Hannon who oversees Modesto’s housing programs: “The complex is one of the older facilities we inspect. It was in need of some ‘TLC’ and we are very pleased with the results. The collaboration between STANCO, F&M Bank, MID and PG&E is a good demonstration of leveraging programs and resources with maximum impact. Ultimately, the residents’ quality of life is improved and the neighborhood benefits from the facelift,” added Hannon.

STANCO is a 501©3 nonprofit organization. Its mission is to develop affordable housing solutions in Stanislaus County. P

October 2012

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e c o n o mi c dev elo pment

State of the Region State of the Region: Why Water Matters When: October 18th, 2012 Where: Modesto Centre Plaza Time: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Water is a key economic driver of our community. In the upcoming Fourth Annual State of the Region: “Why Water Matters,” we will present the role of water in our community and important trends for our water future.

Our guest panel will discuss our water history and the future of water in our region for agriculture, business, and municipal purposes.

Water expert Dr. Roger C. Bales from the Sierra Nevada Research Institute, UC Merced will discuss the future of measuring our water supply and Dr. Nick Pinhey, Former Director of Utility Planning and Projects for the City of Modesto will share his vision on the future of urban water. Vince Roos, San Joaquin River Basin Facilitator, with the California Water institute will also look at the future of irrigation water and what lies ahead.

With this in mind join us on October 18, 2012 at the Modesto Centre Plaza for this important and timely event.

Sponsorships and tickets are available now. Please contact Elizabeth Facanha at efacanha@modchamber.org or (209)577-5757. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

ed ucation

Book Club in a Box

By Susan Lilly, Stanislaus County Free Library

susan lilly

Community book clubs have free access to sets of books through the Stanislaus County Library. There are 90 titles available, including such popular books as “Eat, Pray, Love,” “The Kite Runner,” and “Life of Pi.” Each set generally has 15 to 20 copies, and sometimes an audio book or large print edition is included. The

checkout period for Book Club in a Box is flexible, usually about four weeks, with books due one week after the book club meets.

Currently, library book clubs in Salida, Modesto, Turlock and Riverbank are using the collection, as well as some community book clubs and library book clubs from neighboring counties.

While this program is well used, Book Club in a Box can still accommodate more groups at this time.

“Book club organizers using this service tell me it’s wonderful,” said Diane Bartlett, Nick W. Blom Salida Regional Library Manager. “They appreciate not having to purchase every title the book club reads and it makes the groups more accessible for all community members.”

A list of titles is available on the Readers Corner page of the library web site, www. stanislauslibrar y.org.

Book Club in a Box is housed at the Nick W. The checkout period Blom Salida Regional Library at 4835 Sisk for Book Club in a Road.

Box is flexible, usually

about four weeks.

For more information, please call (209) 543-7315 or visit the Salida Library Information Desk. P

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October 2012

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c o m m uni ty develop ment

announcements The McHenry Mansion Foundation presents its 26th annual Table Setting fundraiser with Preview Day October 15 and catered lunch October 16 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fr. O’Hare Hall, 1813 Oakdale Road, Modesto. Forty thematically-decorated tables will be featured. Preview Day (11 a.m.– 7 p.m.) tickets are $10 at the door. Refreshments served. For information about luncheon reservations, call (209) 571-0635. P

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS For the second year in a row, Data Path, Inc. was recently recognized by Inc. Magazine’s list of the 5,000 Fastest-Growing Small Businesses in the country (#2774) and one of the top 150 IT consulting firms in the country. Co-owners Dave Darmstandler and James Bates, Grace Davis High graduates, started the company in 2005; it has grown 227% the past three years. To learn more about Data Path, go to www.mydatapath.com or contact Director of Sales George Isaac at (209)312-9818. P

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

ed ucation

SEnator Dianne feinstein visits modesto On August 29th United States Senator Dianne Feinstein visited Modesto to deliver a “Washington Update.” After being contacted

by Feinstein’s office only weeks prior, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce mobilized quickly to organize a luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel. This was the first time a Senior Senator had visited Modesto and the Chamber of Commerce was pleased with both the Senator’s selection of Modesto and the success of the event.

She did, however, candidly express her disappointment about the growing partisanship in Washington that is hindering efforts of both sides to improve the Country’s economic position.

We thank the Senator for choosing Modesto for her Washington update. P

A sold out crowd of approximately 350 people attended the event at which the Senator spoke about government spending, the unemployment rate, home foreclosures, bringing more business to California and water. While openly discussing the need for more water storage in California, Senator Feinstein deliberately refused to comment on the then hotly debated topic of the Modesto Irrigation District’s proposal to sell water to San Francisco.

In commenting on the need for California to build a larger manufacturing base, she acknowledged that, “a lot of California law moves manufacturing outside of the state.” Stricter environmental requirements and other regulations drive up the cost of doing business. The Senator added that: “The Legislature needs to take a look at the laws and mandates they have passed.”

Senator Feinstein kept the tone of her presentation relatively upbeat despite discussion of the dreary economy and high foreclosure rates.

chamber chairman Ralph curtis, mayor garrad marsh, senator DIANnE FEINSTEIN, and chamber ceo Cecil Russell

THE BUCK HERE. Shop Local.

Members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce are eligible for greatly discounted rates on the following media outlets.

• Radio commercials on the top stations in the market KATM, KHKK, KHOP, KWIN, KESP, KJSN, KFIV, KMRQ, KOSO and KRVR. • TV commercials on major networks through Comcast • Newspaper space in the Modesto Bee

Your message will be included in commercials produced by The Modesto Chamber

L, A C O L Y U B r f u t u re

ou Invest in y

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 The Modesto Chamber of Commerce at (209) 577-5757 for more information.

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 577-5757 • modchamber.org

October 2012

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Let us make your banking, our business.

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“Oak Valley understands the importance of taking care of their customers and helping them find solutions. They’re a true partner with a genuine desire to help our businesses grow.”

1.866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock • Patterson Ripon • Escalon • Stockton • Manteca

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– Phil and Jan Tilbury, owners of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms, Ripon

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

Lighting rebates

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

HVAC rebates

High efficiency motor rebates

g uest column

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

Chamber Board Perspective

By Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Guest Column

Small Business and our Local Economy

By David Leer, Nationwide E-Brokerage

It has been said that “It takes a village to raise a child”, so what does it take to raise a vibrant business community? My answer: an active local Chamber of Commerce with strong leadership from top to bottom. Let’s start from the top. My membership started in 1995, when Bill Seavy was the CEO. In my opinion, Bill was a great fit at that time, and for that time. When I joined the Chamber, Jeremiah Williams the question was asked, “What can we do for your business?” My answer was, and still is, “It’s what I can do for the Chamber.” We all have certain talents and can make a huge difference when Never give up, back we all work together to achieve down, back away or a healthy business climate.

throw in the towel.

Serving many years as a Chamber board member and Like I stated in the on several different committees beginning, it takes has given me the opportunity to glean skills, knowledge a Chamber to raise and an understanding of how other fellow businesspeople, a vibrant business board members, ambassadors, welcome team members and community and, yes, even Minnie Dodge, working together, we conduct business on a day-today basis. This experience has can make it happen. been a very valuable learning tool. Knowing that no man or woman is an island validates my point that we need one another, or may I say, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, to help us succeed. We may not always get it right, say it right or do it right, however working together as a Chamber we will succeed.

Buying local plays a large part in cultivating and stimulating our local business community. We have had many CEOs over the past several years: Bill Seavy, Gary Plummer, Joy Madison and now Cecil Russell.

In my opinion Cecil has this city’s businesses, and especially Chamber members, at heart. I have not seen a Chamber CEO more compassionate about serving, promoting and celebrating businesses in Modesto.

Nationally we have experienced an economic down turn which has affected the bottom line for all of us. Some of us are still in pursuit of the American Dream and some have crashed. However, let me remind you that we are still in the greatest country in the world and opportunity has been known to knock twice. Never give up, back down, back away or throw in the towel. Like I stated in the beginning, it takes a Chamber to raise a vibrant business community and, working together, we can make it happen. “May God Bless America.” P

The vast majority of small business startups are dissolved within the first five to ten years. Although the rate of failure is highly publicized, many small business owners either sell or dissolve their companies having attained a reasonable measure of success. In the United States, small businesses employ nearly half of the david leer workforce and account for over half of all new jobs created in the last twenty years. On average, small business owners (fewer than twenty (employees) spend four-five times or more to comply with environmental regulations and three times more on tax compliance per employee than their largest counterparts. (“The Impact of Regulation Costs on Small Firms, an Advocacy -funded study by Nicole Crain and Mark Crain, 2010.”)

In addition to issues affecting small business nationally, local owners are required to face the challenges associated with increased expenses and decreased revenues in a deflated local economy. It stands to reason the greatest challenges do not generally arise from achievement, as Bill Gates suggests, “Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” Our greatest challenges arise from these difficult times where local business owners must address these ongoing issues with creativity, patience and fortitude.

At Nationwide E-Brokerage, we believe it is necessary to develop areas of expertise which align with an individual ’s greatest passions. Nonetheless, ta lent a lone does not su f f ice, it is the perseverance during d i f f ic u lt t imes wh ic h Our greatest produces the necessar y challenges arise qualities of character that sustain us in good times from these difficult and bad. Integrity is the foundational component times where local for success in any small business irregardless of business owners the “Bottom Line.” In must address these Modesto, we have the unique oppor t unit y to ongoing issues with sh i ne a s e x p er ienced professionals in a diverse creativity, patience market, showcasing our and fortitude. ability to be successful in any endeavor based upon our values and commitment to excellence. P October 2012

15

n e t w or k i ng & referrals

Ribbon Cuttings

Avalon Care Center 515 E. Orangeburg Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 529-0516

Berliner Cohen

1130 12th Street, Ste. B Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 576-1197

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc. 201 S. McClure Road Modesto, CA 95357 (209) 232-3700

cornerstone studios 5278 Jerusalem Ct. Ste. 7 Modesto, CA Â 95356 (209) 521-9389

16

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Keller Williams Realty 1001 Sylvan Ave., Bldg. A Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 496-9200

Inter-Faith Ministries 120 Kerr Ave. Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 572-3117

Rodarakis & Sousa, A Professional Law Corp.

627 13th Street, Ste. F Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 554-5232

Walmart Neighborhood Market 1421 Coffee Road Modesto, CA Â 95355 (209) 522-3600

n etw orkin g & referrals

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

Business After Hours hosted by:

San Joaquin Valley College

Huff Restoration DKI

San Joaquin Valley College

Huff Restoration DKI

(209) 543-8800 • www.sjvc.edu

(209) 545-0354 • www.huffdki.com

5380 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368 Founded in 1977 San Joaquin Valley College has 11 campuses located throughout California. SJVC is an accredited private junior college that provides accelerated career-focused curriculum and instruction to its students. The college has prepared more than 20,000 graduates for professional success in their chosen careers.

4917 Stoddard Road, Modesto, CA 95356 Huff Restoration DKI is a branch of Huff Construction Company. We now offer restoration services in a time when you need us most. Whether its f ire, mold or water damage, don’t trust your company to an unknown company, trust over 40 years of construction experience.

October 2012

17

e d u ca ti on

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Chamber Celebrates 51st Har vest Lunch The 51st annual Harvest Lunch sponsored by Del Monte Foods, was held September 14 at Graceada Park. A record crowd of over 800 gathered to sample the bounty of fresh peppers and tomatoes and luscious melons and grapes, cheeses, bread and eggs produced right here in the Central Valley. As they have for many years, Mape’s Ranch provided delicious tri-tip and the MJC kitchen cooked up their scrumptious beans. As always, this was an event to remember!

The Keynote speaker was Richard Waycott, President and CEO of the Almond Board of California.

Waycott talked about the effect of our economy on agriculture in the Valley and noted that while not all crop and livestock enterprises are thriving, most are like never before. He further stated that California almonds have boomed, thanks to increased acreage and per-acre yields.

Since its inception, the event, spotlighting Stanislaus County’s agriculture industry, has awarded over $280,000 to agriculture students through the Modesto Junior College Voss-Berryhill Ag Scholarship fund. Thirty students will share the nearly $22,000 raised from this year’s event. Many of these students return to the area to put their education to work and to lend their support for the next generation.

We would like to thank our sponsors and donors for their contributions to the event, and extend a special thank you to Letitia Miller of MJC, for her inspiring performance of our national anthem.

Presenting Sponsor – Del Monte Foods, Inc. Gold Sponsor - Ray Ruiz and Todd Barton, Morgan Stanley Platinum Level

Silver Level

Kaiser Permanente Walmart

Atherton & Associates Del Monte Foods F & M Bank/Dave Wilson Nursery Gianelli & Associates Grimbleby Coleman CPAS, Inc. Harris Moran Seed Company

Gold Level Modesto Irrigation District DoubleTree Hotel

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P

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

JS West Company Mocse Credit Union Modesto Commerce Bank Oak Valley Community Bank Rabobank Save Mart The Modesto Bee Turlock Irrigation District U.S. Bank Valley First Credit Union Wells Fargo Bank Wells Fargo Regional Business Banking Group Winton Ireland Strom & Green Yosemite Meat Company

Stanislaus County Office of Education Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department Superior Fruit Ranch The Alliance TSM Insurance & Financial Services Umpqua Bank Union Bank Veterinary Service, Inc. Wenger Ranch Yosemite Community College District Yosemite Farm Credit

Table Sponsors

American AgCredit Garton Tractor San Joaquin Equipment

A.L. Gilbert/Farmers Warehouse Almond Board of California American AgCredit Ball Metal Food Container Bank of Ag & Commerce Bank of America Beard Land Improvement Company Boyett Petroleum Burchell Nursery, Inc. California Milk Advisory Board California Poultry Federation Clendenin Bird & Company Crop Production Services CSU Stanislaus Ag Services Duarte Nursery E & J Gallo Farmland Management Services Fisher Nut Flory Industries J M Equipment CO., Inc. Jack Rabbit Long Ranch, Inc. Mape’s Ranch/Lyons Investments MJC Foundation Modesto City Schools Morning Star Farms Old Republic Title Company Perez Farms PrideStaff Stanislaus County Assessor’s Office Stanislaus County Farm Bureau

Equipment Sponsors

Direct Donors 4H Color Guard Almond Board of California Apricot Producers Association Burchell Nursery California State University Stanislaus Davis HS Safety Academy Diamond Foods Dittos Fresh Point Foster Farms Dairy Hilmar Cheese Jack Frost/Arctic Glacier Inc. Mape’s Ranch/Lyons Investments Mid Valley Foods, Inc. Modesto Junior College Modesto FFA NuCal Foods Perez Brothers San Joaquin Tomato Save Mart Seven-Up Bottling Company Stanislaus County Farm Bureau Stanislaus Farm Supply Turlock Fruit Company Village Baking Company William Amaral

Lesson #1

DON’T PROMISE WHAT YOU CAN’T DELIVER

WE DELIVER WHAT WE PROMISE

parksprinting.com | 209.576.2568

What sets us apart from our competition….dependability.

printing • mailing • fulfillment • promotional items • cross media marketing October 2012

19

e c o n omi c dev elop ment

n e t work i n g & re f e rra l s

New Member profiles DSW Inc. has been and is a leading branded footwear and accessories retailer for over 20 years, that offers a wide selection of brand name and designer footwear and accessories for women, men and kids. DSW offers a free, award-winning loyalty program, DSW Rewards, where customers earn certificates toward future DSW purchases and receive special member-only offers. Our new store is located at 3900 Sisk Road, come shop our 24,000 pairs of shoes!

VBoogie’s Dance Journey is located at 711 10th Street in

Modesto. The new dance studio is owned by Vontrese “VBoogie” Stevenson, a licensed Zumba® Instructor since 2008 with over 25 years of dance industry experience and education. She has certifications as a professional dancer, choreographer and performer and has been involved in many community and charity projects here in the Central Valley and Bay Area. Zumba® Fitness is the studio’s primary service offering among other specialty rhythm classes available to the downtown Modesto & surrounding areas. You can register for classes at http://www.ZumbawithVboogie.com. P

people on the move Stanislaus County is ple a s e d to

announce the appointment of Angela Freitas as the new Director of Planning and Communit y Development. Freitas has been ser ving in an interim capacit y since Ma rch 2012. Freitas has been an employee of the Stanislaus Count y P l a n n i n g D e pa r t ment si nce 19 9 9.

She has a Bachelor’s of Science degree angela Freitas in Cit y and Regiona l Planning from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Her work with the Count y has been focused on Planning, Communit y Development and Redevelopment. P

Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group

has announced the addition of Karen Kirk as Client Services Manager to the firm’s business development team. Kirk will be responsible for developing and enhancing business partnerships throughout the San Joaquin Valley region. Kirk has over 25 years of business and partne rship development experience in the professional karen kirk engineering and environmental industry.

Her experience consists of developing business opportunities, networking, identifying strategic initiatives, and assisting engineering and consulting professionals in growing professional relationships with their clients. For more information please contact (209) 845-8700.

20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

New Chamber Members ADP

Honey’s Air

Stefany Millstein 2421 I Street #5 Sacramento, CA 95816-4242 (916) 854-5543 (209) 593-2313 stefany.millstein@adp.com www.adp.com Payroll Services

Dale Kujawski 5536 Pirrone Road Salida, CA 95368 (209) 523-2345 honeysair.dale@gmail.com www.honeysair.net Air Conditioning/Heating Equipment & Systems/Sheet Metal

Keller Williams Realty Cigar Club Adam Aprim 1407 Standiford Avenue, #C Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 557-2500 modestotobacco@gmail.com www.modestocigars.com Cigar Shop & Lounge

Nino Pascolati 1001 Sylvan Avenue, #A Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 496-9200 (209) 496-9201 klrw649@kw.com www.modestokw.com Real Estate

Collins Electrical

Kids World Dental

Brian Gini 125 Tuolumne Boulevard Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 524-6641 bgini@collinselectric.com www.collinselectric.com Electric Contractors

Vita Antonov 1404 Mitchell Road Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 537-7878 (209) 537-7916 kidsworlddental123@gmail.com www.kidsworlddental.net Dentists

Connected Real Estate, Inc.

Legalmatch.com

Cindy Yoder 1635 Tully Road, Suite #2 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 526-1619 office@connected-real-estate.com www.connected-real-estate.com Real Estate

395 Oyster Point Boulevard South San Francisco, CA 94080 (866) 686-5342 info@legalmatch.com www.legalmatch.com/find/modesto-calawyers.html Attorneys

Coverall Health-Based Cleaning System

Miceli-Watters, Staffing Partners, LLC

Evan Wright 200 Northwoods Avenue #10 Manteca, CA 95336 (916) 501-4986 (209) 923-4956 evan.wright@coverall.com www.coverall.com Janitorial Service

Trish Miceli 1509 K Street #179 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 544-2907 trish@staffingpartners.net www.staffingpartners.net Employment Agencies

DSW, Inc. Daniel DeCaria 3900 Sisk Road, Suite J2 (614) 872-1089 danieldecaria@dswinc.com www.dsw.com Retail

Quik Med Electronic Billing Solutions Mary Marlett 2201 Curzon Drive Modesto, CA 95355 (209) 988-5522 (209) 214-6883 quikmedelectronicbilling@gmail.com Medical Billing

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

PEOPLE

ARE THE BOTTOM LINE

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

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 SunPower

Gold Level You've worked hard to get where you are.

Put your trust in a firm motivated to help you go further.

it's the people behind the numbers.

Contact us today at 209-527-4220 or gccpas.net.

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 RACOR, Division of Parker Hannifin Corporation Save Mart Supermarkets Seneca Foods, LLC Sysco Food Services of Central California Taco Bell

Silver Sponsors

From Grads to Graffiti, we've got you covered.

Call 209.544.6511 today!

Look us up on Facebook

22

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

www.studiowarner.com

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 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 Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Citibank Clark Pest Control Collins Electrical Comcast Construction Management Corporation Courtyard by Marriott Covanta Stanislaus, Inc. 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 MV Transportation, 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 Post Foods, LLC 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 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

Brian Eliason Trailer Haul Concrete

Brian Eliason

Trailer Haul Concrete has catered to the homeowner and small contractor markets in Modesto since 1962. The company sells “everything for your yard that doesn’t grow,” including landscaping materials, a variety of paving or decorative stones, soils and other materials. The business has been owned and operated by the Eliason family since 1984.

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 pulling weeds, sacking rocks and driving tractors here. I went off to college, got a degree, then went down to Southern California and worked in aerospace for a couple of years. I came back here because this is a family business and you don’t have the politics of the corporate world.

What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life? What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud?

Our greatest accomplishment is still being here, and our biggest challenge is still being here. My dad built this business on a handshake.

He didn’t need contracts. When he said he’d do it, he’d do it. That reputation for being able to work with our customers is a good thing. We always want to maintain that.

You’re very much an entrepreneur. What do you think makes you such a success?

It’s all about customer service: answer the phone, get to them quickly, do everything you can to make them happy. That means if we screw up, we’re going to fix it. And if they screw up, we’ll try to help them fix it, too.

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

We treat the customer fairly. This type of business is customer oriented.

We see mainly small contractors or homeowners, so we’re always helping customers find what they want and need. I try to do what I saw my dad do many times: not sell the customer the most expensive product, sell them what they want. If you give the customer what they want, they might tell somebody. If you make them mad, they’ll tell everybody.

What do you like about your job?

Being a business owner allows you to pursue other passions and interests, even sometimes in the middle of the day. Flexibility as a business owner is a big plus.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?

One of the things I’ve been doing for the last sixteen years is Bible Study Fellowship. I’ve been the teaching leader there for the last 11 years now, and that’s been great. It’s a wonderful Bible Study but very time consuming in its own right. Between time and class and preparation, I put in another 25-30 hours a week. But that’s something you can do as a business owner that you can’t do when you work for somebody else.

We have also supported Habitat for Humanity on projects through the years and a number of school teachers and school projects, including MJC’s geology and mineral courses.

What are your plans for the future?

The challenge we face is that the economy has driven down prices, but not costs. Material is up, gas is up, rent is up, but I’m getting less for my concrete than I was six years ago. It’s hard for a small business to make inroads in the community when you’re fighting everything else. If costs were the same amount, I’d be okay, but it’s hard. The struggle is always to try to stay in business year to year, and sometimes it’s been close, but we’re still here. People keep coming to us because we help them figure out what they need and what would look best in their yard. We are happy to give suggestions or ideas based on our years of experience, and we’re flexible enough to fit the needs of the customer when they need it.

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

We’ve always been small and have never been about making a ton of money. The thing that sets us apart is that we’re locally owned and we live locally. We live in Modesto, we invest in Modesto, most of our suppliers are local. If we can get it locally, we do. We only go out of town if we can’t get it here.

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

October 2012

23

c o m m u ni ty develop ment

Bass Lake Retreat By: Melissa Heath, Warden’s Office Products

The Leadership Modesto 2012 Retreat at Bass Lake was an insightful and learning experience for the 30th year class.

It started with a bus ride that provided an opportunity for the class to bond with one another through some humorous activities.

Nathan Miller of Grimbleby Coleman CPA’s said,”The best part of the weekend was getting to know all of my classmates and learning about our personalities and how we relate to each other in a Leadership context. The time spent in our sessions, at dinner, and doing some of the fun activities helped to quickly breakdown some of the awkwardness that a new class can have. It really sped up the ‘getting to know you’ process.”

Jorilyn Novotny of NAI Benchmark shares, “We laughed, we learned, we shared, we bonded. The weekend was eventful, exciting, educational, and downright FUN! It was an unforgettable experience that I am sure we will all carry with us for the rest of lives.”

Danielle Jones from SCOE said “It is rare to create a sense of community (where everyone feels included) so quickly. During the retreat, I was able to get to know my classmates in a way that encouraged cohesion and

It’s time to mark your calendars and cast you vote. Start thinking about nominating the business of your choice for the upcoming Modesto Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Gala. Over the next few weeks the Chamber will be contacting you via email with the nomination form.

We would invite you to look around our incredible membership and let us know why you think a particular business is worthy of your nomination. We want your vote and your story! Please watch for the nomination form, take the time to complete it and send it back, then reserve your seat for the 99th Annual Gala and Members Choice Awards.

99th Annual awards gala Ja nuary 26, 2013 Ga llo Center for the ARTs

24

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

unity. Truly the retreat exceeded my expectations, I knew I would enjoy the experience but did not have any idea to what extent. My deepest gratitude to the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and the Retreat Steering Committee for dedicating countless hours to making the retreat a leadership experience I will never forget!”

Please go to www.modchamber.org to see details on how you can participate in the Leadership Modesto 2013-2014 class.

WORK IN

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

Developing Relationships, Community Service Keeps Harmon Pest Control Successful When most people think of pest control, they

with clients.” One key to Harmon Pest Control’s

imagine workers in masks using sprays to combat

success at building profitable relationships is

insect infestations. Harmon Pest Control operates

community support. “We really like supporting

a little differently, says VP and co-founder Mariana

our community and it’s really important to us to

Riquelme-Harmon, “90% of what we do are termite

give back. It also helps us build trust with our

inspections, along with roof inspections, home

community, because people recognize that we live in and support this town.”

that go along with that.”

Mariana indicated that Harmon Since its establishment in 2004,

“We really like

Pest Control’s bottom line is

Harmon Pest Control has been

supporting our

dependent on those relationships

the go-to provider of inspections

community and it’s

as well. “Most companies have

MODESTO MEANs BUSINESS

X amount of dollars coming in.

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.

homeowners, homebuyers and,

helps us build trust

We’re just the opposite. Our

especially in recent years, banks.

with our community,

challenge is to make sure that

“With so many repossessed

because people

our relationships are good so

list

houses on the market, they need to work with a company that has a lot of experience, and we try very hard to deliver at a really high level.”

recognize that we live in and support this

I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA I COMMERCIAL SIGNS

month and they know they have

includes

client

I WEB DESIGN

their regular customers every

to give back. It also

Their

A DVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN

people are always referring us for inspection work.”

town.”

“We’re really proud that we’ve

- Mariana Riquelme

always stayed strong so we could keep all our people working through

Mariana added that Harmon Pest

everything, and we’ve been able to

Control’s established clientele and

maintain the same group of people

pool of referrals has helped them maintain medical

since the start. So many businesses in our industry

benefits and pay for their 11 employees, even

haven’t been able to do that.”

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.

through the economic downturn. “Even in 2007 when the market was having a tough time, we were able

Harmon Pest Control is located at 4459 Spyres

to keep busy by doing work out of state with other

Way #D in Modesto. Call (209) 522-1475 for

banks. That came from developing great relationships

more information.

neverboring.com

Joaquin and Merced Counties.

really important to us

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

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inspections and all the other tests

Service when you need it

October 2012

25

ne t w ork i ng & referrals

Chamber Calendar

{ m i nn i e ’s n e w s b i t e s }

Did you know that over 50% of Modesto Chamber member companies employ

October 2012

50 or fewer employees? Our city is

5

26

Oktoberfest

Location: John Thurman Field, 601 Neece Drive Time: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Arch Celebration

teaming with small and mid-sized

Location: 9th Street and I Street Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

businesses that provide goods and services not only locally, but nationally and in some cases, internationally. So

11 Business Before Hours:

when you are looking for professional

Blom & Swain

minnie dodge

Location: 1025 14th Street Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

18

Business After Hours:

food and entertainment, be sure to

November 2012

Studio V Pilates & Fitness

Location: 4345 Spyres Way, Ste 201 Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

18 State of the Region Location: Modesto Centre Plaza, 1000 L Street Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

25 50th Annual Good Egg Breakfast

Location: DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th Street Time: 7:00 a.m. Eggsactly

26

services, specialty gifts, supplies, great

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

8

Business Before Hours: Bank of the West

Location: 3600 McHenry Avenue Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

13

New Member Orientation

Location: 1114 J Street Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

25

Business After Hours: Howard Training Center

Location: 1424 Stonum Road Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

consult the Chamber website to find the Chamber member who can fill your every need.

P

We are looking for 100 cars, classic to current from 1912 - 2012. One car per year. Preference given to American made cars. The following are the years we still need…

1913 1915 1916 1917 1919 1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1942 1943 1944 1945 1952 1959 1975 1976 1977 1978 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1990 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2008 To participate please contact the Modesto Convention and Visitors Bureau, (209) 526-5588.

FIRSTwith the da Vinci robotic ®

technology. Specialists

SECOND to none.

When it comes to minimally invasive surgery, the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System sets the standard for advanced technology. Our specially trained surgical team was the first in the area to use da Vinci®, and has performed more than 800 gynecological, urological, and general surgery procedures with this technology since August 2007. It’s just one more example of the cutting-edge technologies that are used at Doctors Medical Center every day. While the da Vinci® robot sets the standard for the cutting edge of technology, DMC doctors set the bar for the gold standard of care.

• Treatment for gynecological, urological, and general surgery procedures • Significantly less pain • Less scarring • Less risk of infection • Shorter hospital stay • Minimal blood loss • Faster recovery 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.

He just saved two hours.

And a copay.

How? He simply e-mailed his doctor, instead of leaving

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work for an office visit. My Health Manager online services

• e-mail their doctor’s office

can prevent productivity losses—for your people and your organization—at a time when it’s crucial to do more with less.

And these services are available at no added charge.

• check most lab results • request routine appointments

with their personal physician • order prescription refills

See how we can bring greater value to your health care dollars—view a demo at kp.org/experience.

Or contact your Kaiser Permanente broker or account manager.

kp.org/centralvalley Progress_PortOCall_June_9.25x11.75.indd 1

5/15/12 12:04 PM