December 2012 Progress

December 2012 Vol. 33 Issue 12 modchamber.org

The Modesto Arch: 100 Years and Counting Calling All Mentors

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Mission Statement

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

Executive Committee Chairman Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group Chairman Elect David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates Past Chairman Kathy Halsey, Individual Member Vice Chairman of Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA Vice Chairman of External Operations Dan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank Vice Chairman of Member Relations Bill Moreno, Fire2Wire Vice Chairman of Events & Special Projects Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions 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

Brad Blakely

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

CONTENTS December 2012

leadership

4

Message from the CEO

6

cover story The Modesto Arch: 100 Years and Counting

8

Education eBooks

11

Calling All Mentors

13 14 25

Community Development U.S. Veterans Focus Non-Profit Chamber Board Perspective Work in Progress

18 19

Economic Development State of the Region People on the Move

20

New Member Profiles

23

Land of Opportunity

17 20 26

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

5

Stanislaus Green Team Stanislaus Green Team

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

Q:

Modesto is such a great place to live and work. I have lived in Modesto most of my life but have also resided in South America and Northern Europe and have seen products from Modesto in all corners of the world. Modesto really is a connection to the world. Businesses large and small that are based in Modesto are providing goods and services to our local community as well as around the globe. As an Ambassador for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce it is a privilege for me to meet and develop relationships with our business owners and thank them for partnering with the Modesto Chamber of Commerce to grow our valley. The Ambassador program affords me the chance to promote the uniqueness that makes Modesto stand out. If you are interested in more information on ways to support the local business community or joining the Ambassador Team, please call me, Brad Blakeley, Wells Fargo Advisors - Private Client Group, (209) 342-1528. 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: Modesto Arch Photo by: George Klatt

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

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message from the ceo

By Chamber CEO Cecil Russell As I reflect back on this year and all of the accomplishments of your Modesto Chamber of Commerce, the number and quality of our events really stands out.

cecil russell Chamber ceo

successful as a society.

We hosted a lunch on February 16th that featured former Congressman George Radanovich. He spoke about his 16 years of service in Washington DC and how community, business and government need to work more collaboratively to become more

We started the year planning our 100th anniversary celebration.

We moved the date to March 10th and changed it from a sit-down dinner to a gala presentation with local restaurants providing dining stations. We moved the venue to the Gallo Center for the Arts which provided an amazing backdrop for the celebration. We honored our six 100 year members and also presented awards honoring those members who went above and beyond in their support of the Chamber in 2011. Nearly 800 members turned out for this fabulous event that was enjoyed by all.

Our next event of the year on March 28th was the annual State of the City held at the Modesto Centre Plaza featuring newly elected Mayor, Garrad Marsh. Mayor Marsh addressed a crowd of almost 400 and shared his vision of the future of Modesto.

We moved on to our 17th Annual Ag Aware Luncheon on April 19th at the SOS Club. The Keynote speaker was Senator Anthony Cannella. Two local FFA students also shared how their experiences in FFA have been of benefit to them. This luncheon was attended by 450 guests and raised $10,000 for Modesto City Schools FFA Programs.

Next up was the Business-to-Business Tradeshow on June 27th at the Modesto Centre Plaza. This was our second consecutive year at Centre Plaza, and the event showcased 87 member businesses and featured keynote speaker Karen Rice representing Constant Contact.

The members hosting display booths enjoyed speaking with over 300 visitors and future clients.

In August, the Chamber was contacted by Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office who asked us to host a luncheon for the Senator, and of course, we were happy to do so. Senator Feinstein addressed a crowd of over 350 attendees and delivered a Washington Update that was interesting to all who attended.

On August 23rd we hosted an Open House here at the Chamber office to celebrate the recent remodeling to the inside and outside of the building, completed by our new landlord, ICV Modesto, LLC, and managed through NAI Benchmark. We are hopeful that

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

the improved look and renewed sense of pride will be encouraging to Downtown building owners. This event was catered by local restaurants with an attendance of 330 neighbors and members.

September 14th marked the 51st annual Harvest Luncheon at Graceada Park. This annual event raises scholarship dollars for MJC Agriculture students through the Voss Berryhill Scholarship Fund.

The featured speaker was Richard Waycott, President and CEO of the Almond Board. The event had over 850 attendees and raised a record $22,000.

Together with Tom Changnon from Stanislaus Office of Education, the Chamber co-hosted a reception for the new President of California State University Stanislaus, Dr. Joseph Sheley. The event was held at the Martin Petersen Center on September 25th. Dr. Sheley addressed the crowd about the future of education and spoke to the partnerships he would like see developed between education and business.

The State of Education event was moved from August to September 26th. The event featured Modesto City Schools’ ROP and Academy classes along with the Stanislaus County Office of Education Military Academy and Stanislaus Partners in Education. Sean Carroll delivered an update from last year’s Expect More Stanislaus, outlining its accomplishments and challenges. New this year, were 16 educational booths that showcased several ROP programs. These booths offered business an opportunity to see the talent in our local schools and connect with and support these programs.

Our annual Oktoberfest was held on October 5th at John Thurman Field. This year’s sponsor was Walmart who supplied the brats, sauerkraut, potato salad and condiments. The delicious brats were cooked by our local Modesto Firemen. This year’s attendance was close to 2,000.

Over 270 guests joined us for The State of the Region event at The Modesto Centre Plaza, October 18th. Three water experts, Dr. Roger C. Bales from the Sierra Nevada Research Institute, Dr. Nick Pinhey, UC Merced and Former Director of Utility Planning and Projects for the City of Modesto, and Vince Roos, San Joaquin River Basin Facilitator with the California Water Institute, spoke on the timely subject “ Why Water Matters.” Craig Lewis of Prudential California Realty and Chairman of the Chamber’s Land Use and Transportation Committee moderated.

We capped off our events with the celebration and rededication of the Modesto Arch. This project began with an announcement at the Chamber’s Centennial Gala in March. A construction committee was formed, headed by Board Member Michael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection. The goal was to refurbish the Modesto Arch and bring it back to its original splendor. Once this was accomplished we held an event worthy of the huge community effort put forth to accomplish this endeavor. Under the leadership of Laura Ward, Ward

Stan islaus G reen Team

Stanislaus Green Team

By Rikki Keenan

Promotional Solutions Inc., a fantastic and hard working event committee threw a huge celebration with a parade of 100 cars one car for each of the Arch’s one hundred years, entertainment, the lowering of a fifty-year time capsule and the grand re-lighting of the Arch.

On November 6th, the Chamber collaborated with Modesto Junior College to host a breakfast to introduce Jill Stearns, the new President of MJC. Ms. Stearns explained how her background in business has made her uniquely qualified for her position at MJC. She encouraged the business community to be in constant contact regarding the training and skills they would like to see in potential employees graduating from the school.

This is a quick year-in-review of some of the events put on by your Modesto Chamber. In between all these major events we held monthly Business Before Hours and Business After Hours, quarterly President’s Club events and supported the Good Egg Breakfast, March of Dimes, Lemonade Day and the Salvation Army’s Kettle Kick-Off. We believe that it is our responsibility to keep the business community informed and to bring groups together to help create a better quality of life for our area. Modesto is a great community and we are very proud to be a part of its past, its present and its future. P

On September 27, 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill AB 32. By requiring in law a reduction of GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, California set the stage for its transition to a sustainable, clean energy future. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce developed the “Stanislaus Green Team” to create a nexus between commerce and the environment Rikki Keenan Coordinator and to enhance the delivery of Chamber services that address economic, environmental, and quality of life issues in Stanislaus County.

The Stanislaus Green Team will help implement environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility and will provide resources to help the county achieve both.

The Stanislaus Green Team has within it a “REACON Team” (Recycling, Energy Conservation, Air Pollution Mitigation, and Water Conservation) that will proactively coordinate a collaborative effort between private businesses, municipal and county solid waste divisions, economic development professionals and the community of Stanislaus County. The “REACON Team” will provide free assessments that will help small, medium and large businesses and organizations reduce their costs of doing business, help the environment and move the Stanislaus County economy forward.

The Stanislaus Green Team meets monthly. The next meeting will be on December 5, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. and all businesses, organizations and interested individuals are welcome to attend.

Anyone interested in becoming a REACON Team Investor, Green Team Supporter, or would like to schedule a free assessment should call Rikki Keenan at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, (209) 577-5757 Ext.103 or email RKeenan@ModChamber.org.

Stanislaus Green Team Meeting December 5, 2012, 10 : 00 a.m.

Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th Street, Suite 102, Modesto (Across from Brenden Theater and right next door to Fuzio’s) StanislausGreenTeam.com

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{ Co ve r S to r y }

The Modesto Arch: 100 Ye a rs a nd Coun ti n g

By Justin Souza

On October 26, 2012, a journey that began back in 1912 entered its next chapter. The venerable Modesto Arch, first constructed by an early version of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, was rebuilt and rededicated to the city it has served for a century with a block party, an official relighting ceremony and a parade through history with 100 cars spanning each year since the Arch’s construction.

The Save the Arch Project was the brainchild of Mike Moradian from Peace of Mind Home Inspection who spearheaded the project’s construction and coordinated contractors and suppliers. “This is a celebration of Modesto’s heritage and history,” said Moradian of the project. “This was a perfect time for [the Arch] to be renovated because of the 100 year anniversary. We were trying to show that Modesto is a good place and the Arch is a good thing.”

The project meant a full-scale renovation of the Arch, from replacing its internal wiring, shoring up its structure and raising the two flagpoles which originally flanked the landmark to swapping out the hundreds of incandescent bulbs with special LED lights.

The Save the Arch Project raised over $115,000 to make the restoration possible as well as fund ongoing maintenance to keep the Arch looking great for future generations. The project was made possible by a huge outpouring of support from the community in the form of direct donations and contributions of labor and materials.

Sales of the Arch Bar was another major fundraising push from

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

the Modesto Chamber. Each of these candy bars inscribed with an image of the Modesto Arch could contain one of the rare Golden or Silver Tickets, and a shot at being part of the rededication ceremony.

Lindsey Longacre from Burnside Body Shop won the Golden Ticket drawing and had the honor of flipping the switch to light the Arch for the first time, while Dallas Marsh, the Silver Ticket winner, pushed the button that started the burial of a time capsule (built and donated by Billington Welding & Manufacturing, Inc.) that contained items emblematic of Modesto in 2012.

The relighting of the Arch was accompanied by a large downtown event—coordinated by Laura Ward of Ward Promotional Solutions, Inc.—at the Arch’s long-time location at 9th and I Streets.

According to Chris Murphy, who served as Master of Ceremonies for the event, thousands of Modestans turned out to celebrate the Arch.

“By the time the Arch went on, it looked like a concert. It was packed when we did the countdown,” said Murphy, adding that this “wasn’t just a business group thing, it was the community at large that was really supportive of the Arch restoration program.”

The event opened with the raising of two flags secured by Congressman Denham, which had previously flown over the US Capitol building.

Chamber member Jeremiah Williams sang the National Anthem. The event was capped with a parade of 100 cars which included an automobile to represent each of the last hundred years, from the latest model Chevy Volt to a 1912 Model T carrying local centenarians Claire Price and Esther Johnson. The car parade was coordinated by John Sanders and Paul Grissible of the Modesto Model A Club and even included vehicles from WWII. The event was a great success and was covered by regional press including Fox 40, Channel 3, Univision and a number of radio stations, according to Murphy, who also handled publicity for the event. “The community was totally behind this. I think we’re looking to preserve and celebrate our history more so now. You’re seeing a focus on what our town was made of and how we’ve evolved over these years,” said Murphy. P

The Chamber of Commerce owes particular thanks to the following people and businesses: Platinum: Acme Construction Beard Land and Investment Co. Brenden Mann Foundation Care 1st Health Plan Collins Electrical Doctors Medical Center IBEW Local 684 Kaiser Permanente Modesto Garden Club Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Gold: Corollo Engineers Modesto Irrigation District Stanislaus Food Products The Lyons Family The Modesto Bee Bronze: Alan & Linda Cover American Chevrolet AT&T Christine Beckstrom Covanta Stanislaus, Inc. David Geer Downtown Improvement District

Estanislao Chapter 58 historical Foundation of E Clampus Vitus Joaquin Painting, Inc. Mark Driver Model A Club – Modesto Area Chapter Modesto Confidential & Management Association Modesto Convention & Visitors Bureau Modesto Junk Company Peace of Mind Home Inspections, Inc. Prime Shine Car Wash Sierra Pacific Distribution Stanislaus Medical Association Storer Transportation Honorable: Burnside Body Shop Colleen Beard Costa Family Foundation Franklin & Downs Funeral Homes Wayne Mathes Contributors: Allied Concrete Barker’s Music Billington Welding & Manufacturing Inc. C & C Portables Cal West Concrete Ceres Pipe & Metal CHG City Signs Custom Komfort Construction Denton Inc. Design Metals ET Abatement Inc. FYFE Co. LLC Joaquin Painting, Inc. Luis Aguilar Plastering Luxury Limousine Service

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

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eBooks

By Susan Lily Readers can now check out eBooks, free, from the Stanislaus County Library through the 3M Cloud Library! Customers can enjoy downloads immediately with mobile devices or tablets supporting the iOS or Android operating systems or transfer from a PC to a compatible device.

With the PC app, customers can browse the 3M Cloud Library, download, and read eBooks on any susan lilly computer running Windows 7,Vista, or XP. A Mac app is in development and will be available soon. The desktop app is available at www.stanislauslibrary.org. Mobile users can download the 3M Cloud Library app through the App Store or Play Store. EBook customers will need to select the Stanislaus County Library and enter their library card number to access books owned by the Stanislaus County Library.

Cost and file compatibility issues prevented the library from adding the eBook format sooner. Titles available through the 3M Cloud Library are compatible with most e-readers, tablets and smart phones. Currently, they are compatible with the Kindle Fire, but not the basic Kindles. The Stanislaus Library Foundation contributed $20,000 toward the start-up of eBooks. While the initial collection is small, new titles are added every week.

“We are so pleased to support the launch of our library’s eBook program,” said Carol Shour, president of the Stanislaus Library Foundation. “The community really wanted this service and we’re excited to be a part of it.”

Instructions and video tutorials are available at http://www.stanislauslibrary.org/ebook_information.shtml.

{ Sma ll Business Spot ligh t } Johnson & Associates CPAs, Inc. Johnson & Associates CPAs, Inc., headquartered in Modesto, provides a wide range of services including: tax return preparation; litigation support; forensic accounting; expert testimony; management advisory services; and accounting and auditing services for agriculture, small business, medical and other professionals, manufacturing, retail, wholesale, service industries, real estate, entertainment, non-profit organizations, governmental organizations, educational entities, and others. Johnson & Associates take care to provide their clients with high quality services personalized for their unique needs. Casey G. Johnson, CPA, MBA; Katherine E. Passmore, CPA and Michelle N. Matos, CPA have all been located in the Modesto and surrounding areas for their entire careers, and recently joined forces to establish the firm. They moved to their new location on June 1, 2012, at the corner of 15th and G Streets, and are enjoying Modesto’s downtown area. They currently have six employees and plans to grow in the coming years. For more information about Johnson & Associates, visit www.jacpainc.com or call (209) 236-1040. P

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lead ersh ip

your chamber at work Resto rati on of t he a rc h the b egin ni ng of som e t hi n g b i g g e r

by Greg Nyhoff, City Manager Modesto’s Arch celebrated its centennial birthday in style thanks to a group of dedicated and self less community members.

The Modesto Arch would not stand as vibrant as it does today without the countless hours and Greg Nyhoff materials donated by Modesto’s own engineers, construction companies, renovators, painters, electricians and metal workers. In the words of The Modesto Bee – elements of the Arch can be proudly stamped with “Made in Modesto” – there is no better legacy to hand the generations to come than one of a united and proud community.

supportive community.

Modesto is truly unique in its interconnectedness – talk to someone long enough and you’ll find a ...there is no better legacy common connection. And yet, Modesto is not a small town – boasting more than to hand the generations to 200,000 people, this is a metropolitan city – you can find dining of any kind, come than one of a united entertainment to enjoy, shopping and so much more. It is my sincere hope and proud community. that the community-driven restoration of the Modesto Arch is just the start of what can be a truly amazing The restoration of the Arch is just one visible example of how movement to celebrate all the positive and wonderfully unique things positive thoughts and actions can propel Modesto forward. As about our community and those who call Modesto home. P the City Manager, I am blessed to be part of such a caring and

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Annual Gala & Awards Presented by:

Join us January 26th for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce 99th Annual Gala, celebrating the winners of the Member Choice Awards and 30 years of Leadership Modesto!

Gallo Center for the Arts 6 : 00 pm

History will be made as 30 years of Leadership Modesto graduates celebrate their milestones, achievements and special memories.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce will celebrate it’s 99th Annual Award Gala paying tribute to businesses that you, our members, have voted to be the best - the best Chamber Member of the Year, the best Small Business of the Year and the Best NonProfit of the Year. You also have the opportunity to vote for the most distinguished Chamber member. So vote you must to make this all happen on January 26, 2013 when the spot light shines, the red carpet rolls out and we announce the winners at the 2013 Annual Gala. Modesto’s finest restaurants will serve up their most famous and well loved dishes along with carving stations, a sushi bar and an array of delectable delights to tempt your taste buds. The bar and wine stations will keep the libations flowing and we’ll close the evening with drinks, dessert and dancing.

*Please submit your online nominations for the Chamber Member Choice Awards at: w w w.modchamber.org Celebrating 30 Years of Leadership Modesto

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

ed ucation

CALLING ALL MENTORS: Business Communities YOU, can make change

By Keith D. Boggs, Assistant Executive Officer County of Stanislaus

Keith D. Boggs

When I was asked to pen a few words on youth mentoring for this month’s Progress Magazine, I initially intended to take the opportunity to share about our County employee-based mentor model. After all, it has been growing and gaining so much momentum over the past 24 months. Fast approaching an impressive 15 consecutive years of service milestone, it is easy to participate in and based upon a team approach that makes the obligation as easy as it is rewarding.

Please share your mentor activity with us. Let’s connect the dots and make a difference… together.

If you or your business is actively engaged in youth mentoring or simply want to be, please contact me at 209.652.1514 or at boggsk@stancounty.com and share your program. Join our mentor army, TODAY! P

Nope. I think that I’ll take a different tact this time…

Last week I attended the Annual SPIE luncheon (Stanislaus Partners In Education). The event is always a great opportunity to visit with community leaders and to check in with the multiple school sites where our program works. During the luncheon the program format provided a chance to hear about how the local business community is stepping up and engaging our area education sector.

It’s really good stuff. Inspirational, actually.

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This year more than ever before, I noticed a significant number of businesses being recognized for their time. Time spent engaging students through mentoring – not just the traditional monetary assistance. This really got me thinking. How can we coordinate these great contributions? How can we harness these wonderful acts of caring?

After all, if we could accurately identify all those who are engaging wouldn’t it become that much easier to rally those who may be interested to join?

You know, the power in numbers thing….

So instead of going on about our awesome mentor program, I thought that I would take the opportunity to make a formal plea to all those area businesses that are currently mentoring at one or more of our area school sites and to those who may be interested in getting involved.

Committed to serving your legal needs

Berliner Cohen’s Modesto attorneys Judy Jensen, Leslie Kalim

Tell us who you are! Join our Mentor Me Stanislaus initiative.

McHugh, Edalina Mendonca, and Kevin Kelley serve your legal

Last year, we started to identify as many youth mentoring initiatives as we could in Stanislaus County through the Expect More Stanislaus campaign.

We have published a partial resource guidebook (available on our site), yet we know that it is partial and incomplete.

administration, employment, hospitality, land use, public agency

Perhaps you will consider becoming part of our quarterly dialogue?

This forum, by and between people and businesses just like your own who are getting involved, dealing with the issues first person and making a difference in the lives of our youth, could be just the vehicle to push our community wide mentor efforts over the top.

I believe that there is a fantastic movement afoot in Stanislaus County. A recalibration, a recommitment to education as investment.

needs in corporate and tax, real estate, estate planning, probate representation, and business litigation.

BERLINER COHEN PRESENTS 2013 CALIFORNIA EMPLOYER UPDATE COMPLIMENTARY SEMINAR Thursday, January 24, 2013 — Modesto Check www.berliner.com/events for details.

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announcements Collins Electrical joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce President’s Club – Circle of Influence at the Silver Level in August. Accepting the President’s Club Plaque from Chairman Ralph Curtis is Brian Gini, VP and Branch Manager and Chris Riley General Superintendent of Collins Electrical. Collins Electrical was a huge supporter of the renovation of the Modesto Arch and is a huge supporter of our community. The Chamber is pleased to have their membership. To learn more about Collins Electrical please contact (209) 524-6641 or visit www.collinselectric.com. P COIT Services Inc. joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce President’s Club – Circle of Influence at the Silver Level in October. Accepting the President’s Club Plaque from Chairman Ralph Curtis is Owner, Pete Bakker.

COIT Services Inc. has proudly supported community fundraisers benefitting children and families in Stanislaus County and continues to support our community. The Chamber is pleased to have their membership.

To learn more about COIT Services Inc. please contact (209) 545-2648 or visit www.forcoit.com. P Raymond James & Associates, Inc. joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce President’s Club – Circle of Influence at the Silver Level in October. Accepting the President’s Club Plaque from Chairman Ralph Curtis is Nathan Clakley, Senior Vice President of Investments and Robert Powell, Financial Advisor. Raymond James was a huge supporter of the renovation of the Modesto Arch and is a huge supporter of our community. The Chamber is pleased to have their membership. To learn more about Raymond James please contact (209) 579-1287or visit www.groverfinancialgroup.com.

Howard Training Center invites you to their 19th Annual CrabFest March 1st & March 2nd, 2013. Doors open at 5:30 pm, dinner served at 7:00 pm.

All you can eat crab with potato, salad & bread. The famous HTC cookies & crabby cookies will be on hand as well! Dance to the sounds of the SilverMoon Band from 9 - midnight. There will be two rooms filled with raffle prizes & silent auction items to bid on. This event sells out early....get your tickets now! To go orders available. Sponsorships available. All proceeds benefit the programs provided by HTC. Tickets available at www.howardtrainingcenter.com.

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com mun ity d evelopmen t

{ F ROM THE EXPERTS }

Employment Laws: What’s New for 2013?

By: Verla Oliver

Several new employment laws will affect California employers’ day-to-day operations and policies, with significant changes in key areas. Below is a brief description of a few of these new laws, which go into effect on January 1, 2013.

Commission Agreements Commission agreements “shall be in Verla Oliver writing and shall set forth the method by which the commissions shall be computed and paid.” Commissions do not include short-term productivity bonuses or bonus and profit-sharing plans, unless based on an employer’s promise to pay a fixed percentage of sales or profits as compensation.

Employee Access to Personnel Files While existing California law already provides employees with the right to inspect their personnel files, the A.B. 2674 clarifies that both former and current employees have the right to inspect and receive a copy of their personnel records within 30 days of a request to do so.

Social Media and Personal Passwords AB 1844 prohibits employers from requiring or requesting employees or job applicants to provide user names or passwords for personal social media accounts. There are limited exceptions, including an exception relating to employer investigations.

Sex Discrimination and Breastfeeding AB 2386 changes the definition of “sex” under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) for purposes of discrimination protections to include breastfeeding and related medical conditions.

Religion and Reasonable Accommodation Under FEHA, employers must reasonably accommodate religious beliefs and observances of their employees unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the employer. AB 1964 clarifies that religious dress and grooming practices are covered “beliefs and observances.”

If you are interested in support for the Human Resources function of your business, please visit SinglePoint Outsourcing’s website at www.single-point.com for information. P

U.S. Veteran Focused NonProfit Seeks Board Members V ES T I nc. i s l o o ki n g f o r l eade r s t o sup p ort v e t e ra n e nt re p r e n e u r s

By Michael Loschke , IMC Consulting & Training Over 2,000,000 U.S. veterans have returned home since 2001. 250,000 have no work and poor job prospects. That’s why a new non-profit group to help veterans with employment needs and entrepreneurial dreams launched this month.

VEST (Veteran Entrepreneur Service Team) Inc. assembled an executive board and adopted a master plan, for which the vision states, “VEST serves and inspires our nation’s veterans to become passionate entrepreneurs and leaders of America’s economic growth engine.”

The organization is now seeking business leaders, especially veterans, to actively serve on the Advisory Board. Community leaders from businesses, churches, schools, veterans’ affairs and other charitable organizations are encouraged to apply.

Current Advisory Board members include Russ St. Claire, 10-year Navy veteran and businessman, Mike Anderson, the Military/Veteran Liaison with Congressman Denham’s office, and Chris Lambert, a former Marine and successful business man who is a triple Purple Heart recipient. Executive Board members are Kent Buckner, USMC retired, Dennis Gillen, Ph.D., Liz Holtzclaw, Michael Loschke, and Theresa Zamora, M.B.A. Vets will be offered one of two types of services. One service includes job seeking, interview, and social skills training for assimilation into the workforce. The second path - VEST entrepreneurism - requires additional criteria that may include time in business, innovation, market demand, profitability and scalability. The payoff is free training, guidance and support by a network of experienced business coaches, advisors, and investors.

VEST Inc. is a lifeline of hope for the vision and dreams of those men and women who served our country. Any business leader, especially veterans, who is passionate about serving veterans and are available for monthly meetings, should contact Michael Loschke at (209)572-2271 or mloschke@imc-1.net.

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Chamber Board Perspective Shop Local

By David Halvorson, American Chevrolet

David Halvorson

In preparing to write this article about “shopping local,” I had the usual thoughts come to mind. Every dollar you spend locally circulates through our community 3½ times.

When you spend money locally it keeps your tax dollars here to help public safety and education. Both are true, but you have to wonder if that message means something or is it like Charlie Brown’s teacher, “blah, blah, blah!” So I thought we might look at shopping locally from a different angle.

As a city and county we are relatively small in population; 200,000 for Modesto and 500,000 for Stanislaus County. Unfortunately along with our small population we have high unemployment, 16% + and a high poverty rate of approximately 25%. Our city and county both have severe financial pressures, as do the State and Federal governments, which are disasters looking for a place to happen. We obviously can’t wait for the government to swoop in and solve our problems.

One of my favorite sayings is “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me.” I believe the only way that we are going to make things better is to adopt that attitude. In the last year or so there has been a great movement to help clean up our cities, “Love Modesto.” We need the same philosophy when it comes to shopping locally. Spending our money here will improve our economy, create jobs and make us less dependent on Sacramento’s benevolence. But that will only happen if each one of us makes a conscience decision to change. If you can buy it here, you need to buy it here! The internet may be convenient, but it is destroying our local communities. No one is too busy to do the right thing. Spending our money at home is the responsibility of all of us as citizens.

Lastly, as we make the decision to change our buying habits, we also need to demand more out of our public officials. Good enough is no longer good enough. All levels of government must stop spending money we do not have. If our elected officials do not make good business decisions, we need to replace them with responsible people that will. Together we can all “Love Modesto.” Remember, “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me!” P

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 14

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

guest column

Guest Column

Telephone technology un-tangled

By Brian McDermott Today technology moves faster than most of us can keep up. As a business owner, it is hard to determine where to invest, what’s a fad, and what equipment is really necessary to add efficiency to a business. Sometimes, with all the new gadgets, it is easy to overlook improvements made to old solutions- like the business phone.

Like progress in other technologies, business telephones are still evolving and improving too. Since the telephone was invented in 1876, or since push button dialing replaced rotary dials in the 1960s, business phone systems have moved into the 21st century and can speak through the internet, identify callers and take messages.

Brian McDermott

Many professionals don’t realize their business line can find them anywhere, be managed from their Smartphone, program to forward or route depending on the time of day, or email voicemails and faxes.

In this economy it is important for businesses to look at existing investments to find where they can improve efficiency and better serve their customer base.

‘As a one-man show, my phone lets me operate like a big business,’ says Stephen Goulding of Toorak Painting. ‘While out of town my work calls went to voicemail and emailed me- so I didn’t miss a quote opportunity yet didn’t interrupt the Business phone systems family. Day to day, using Utility Telephone’s SIM have moved into the 21st ring solution, which rings century and can speak the office and my mobile at once, makes sure my through the internet, customers can always reach me.’ identify callers and take messages..

Five things you need to know your phone can do:

• Customized Caller ID- One number from anywhere. Have all extensions and mobile phones dialing appear as one number. Stop calls to empty desks or giving your personal mobile number.

• Electronic faxing- Faxing comes straight to your inbox versus sitting on your desk until you get the chance to process. Or keep that client information confidential rather than sitting on the common fax machine.

If you are feeling confused about your communications, call Utility Telephone, a San Joaquin County business specializing in telephone and Internet solutions engineered to save customers time and money, making phones work smarter and more conveniently for today’s entrepreneur. For a free consultation on your phone system and cost-saving solutions available to you, speak to Brian about your business telephone or internet needs. Please call 209.940.1072, or email bmcdermott@utilitytelephone.com. P

inter or spring, maintaining your building’s roof is still one of the best investments you can make — and all too easy to forget… until the rains come, or your utility bills skyrocket from all that heating or cooling leaking through an underinsulated roofing system. We’ll put a cap on potential problems, and keep your investment paying top dividends!

• Send your voicemail to your email- listen anywhere! Think of your sales staff in the field, speeding up response time to leads.

• Program your call routing, voicemail and out of office from anywhere. You can log-in and manage your desk phone from home or on the go through your Smartphone. No more problems with missing opportunities because of staff on leave.

• Route calls to both your mobile phone and office simultaneously. No missed calls no matter where you are.

NOvember

15

n e t w or k i ng & referrals

Ribbon Cuttings

Quik Registration Service

United Cab, Metro Cab, DeSoto Cab

National Alliance On Mental Illness

SunPower/ K Road Modesto

Solavei

Valley Defense

514 15th Street Suite C Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 408-0394

6700 McHenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95356 (510) 260-8497

1025 Lone Palm Ave Suite D8 Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 888-8888, (209) 222-2222

1110 Princeton Avenue Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 324-8189

The City of Modesto’s Utility Users Tax is collected on water, gas and electric services at a rate of 6%, cable television services at 3%, and telecommunication services at 5.8%. The maximum tax utility users have to pay for each service is $1500.

The Modesto Municipal Code currently provides for refunds of overpayments made within 12 months from the receipt of the refund request. To request a refund, please provide the city with a written request and copies of your utility bills which verify you overpaid. Requests for refunds should be mailed to: City of Modesto Finance Department Attn: Utility Tax Desk PO Box 642; Modesto CA 95353 You may elect to prepay the utility users tax maximum if you believe you will exceed the cap. If you have any questions, please contact the Utility Tax personnel at (209)577-5206.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

1620 N. Carpenter Road C20 Modesto, CA 95358 (209) 552-5728

1620 N. Carpenter Road C20 Modesto, CA 95358 (209) 552-5728

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 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.

n etw orkin g & referrals

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

Business After Hours hosted by:

Bank of the West and I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

Howard Training Center

Bank of the West

Howard Training Center

3600 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA 95356

1424 Stonum Road, Modesto, CA 95351

For over 135 years, Bank of the West has listened and responded to the

For 60 years Howard Training Center has been a community leader in providing

needs of our communities. We are proud once again to partner with the

programs for adults with disabilities. From classroom settings to community

Chamber for a mixer and toy drive.

employment, we provide a vision to see that each of our participants soars to the best

(209) 521-8060 • www.bankofthewest.com

(209) 538-4000 • www.howardtrainingcenter.com

of their ability. HTC is the Stanislaus County provider of the Meals on Wheels

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

program and offers on site and off site catering with hall rental available. Please call 209.538.4000 for more information about our services.

(209) 529-2020 • www.ijlarsenpumps.com 509 Tully Road, Modesto, CA 95350 I.J. Larsen Pumps is a 24 hour business that specializes in initialization, and repairs of Residential, Industrial, Commercial and Agricultural water well pumps. I.J. Larsen Pumps also installs VFD (variable frequency drives) and energy eff icient equipment.

PEOPLE

ARE THE BOTTOM LINE

{ mi nnie’s news bit es } Each year at this time we reflect on the past year, its accomplishments and our members and volunteers who help us achieve success. Without your support we would not be able to accomplish the goals and tasks set before us. We thank you all for your membership, your support and minnie dodge

You've worked hard to get where you are.

your enthusiasm throughout the year. We

Put your trust in a firm motivated to help

wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a

you go further.

Happy and Prosperous New Year!

P

it's the people behind the numbers.

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

NOvember

17

Ec on om iEcdu Dc ev op m e n t ae tl i on

Cha C ha mb mber Un i v e rs i ty Social Media Marketing Crank up your business and relationships with the growing power of social media. See and hear business strategist and Constant Contact Authorized Local Expert, Michael Loschke live.

Location:

When: Time: Cost:

Modesto Chamber of Commerce, 1114 J Street, Modesto, 95354 December 5, 2012 9:00am – 11:00am Members - Free, Non-members - $10.00

To Register: Call the Modesto Chamber at (209) 577-5757

Your Career with APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Designation This course is offered in conjunction with the certifying organization Association of Supply Chain Professionals (APICS) and provides the knowledge and skill set needed to design a successful supply chain strategy, effectively manage supplier and customer relationships, recognize logistics, technology and data that will enhance performance and incorporate all processes to increase customer satisfaction while improving the organization’s bottom line. Certificate of Completion and 3.9 CEU. Location: When:

Time:

5222 Pirrone Court, Salida, 95368 January 14 to April 22, 2013 (No Class January 21 and February 18) 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm • Celeste Ayers, Instructor

To Register: Call Danna Libao at 800-632-0094 or www.brandman.edu/supplychain

COMING SOON - Ed2Go Online Be on the lookout for Modesto Chamber of Commerce Ed2Go Online coming in January 2013. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce and MJC have partnered together to offer Chamber members online classes at discount prices. Hundreds of classes will be offered online that you and your employees can take advantage of with a few key strokes and some time. Watch for more information in Chamber Happenings and Progress Magazine.

18

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

State of the Region W hy Wat e r M att e r s The Chamber’s fourth annual State of the Region kept attendees focused as the history of water , where we currently stand and what our future looks like were discussed. We viewed charts and graphs and learned how to be more conservative with our consumption of water. Dr. Nick Pinhey – General Manager of the Stanislaus Regional Water Authority spoke about “The Future of Water for Cities”, Dr. Vince Roos – San Joaquin River Basin Facilitator with California Water Institute discussed “The Future of Water for Farms” and Dr. Roger C. Bales – Director of UC Merced Sierra Nevada Research Institute brought us up to date on “The Future of the Sierra Nevada Water Shed and its Measurement”.

Following the presentations, moderator Craig Lewis, Prudential California Realty asked the panel some candid questions regarding water and our region followed by questions from the audience.

The topic of water will continue to be foremost in our conversations, planning and future. It is important to understand not only how water directly affects your business and our daily lives, but what might indirectly affect our economy as we continue to explore the vast and ever growing subject of water.

The Chamber would like to thank our speakers for their insightful information and pertinent comments and Mr. Craig Lewis for moderating the event. For the months of planning and time involved we thank our committee chair, Mr. George Petrulakis, of Petrulakis Law & Advocacy, APC. P

Presenting Sponsor Kaiser Permanente

Event Sponsors California State University, Stanislaus Duarte Nursery Heald College Petrulakis Law & Advocacy, APC

President’s Club Table Sponsors Diamond Bank of the West Silver Grimbleby Coleman CPA’s, Inc. F & M Bank Modesto Commerce Bank Oak Valley Community Bank Valley First Credit Union Wells Fargo Business Banking Table Sponsors Modesto City Schools Stanislaus County Assessor University of California, Merced

Gold DoubleTree Hotel Memorial Medical Center-Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Seneca Foods, LLC

econ omic d evelopm en t

people on the move

BEFORE

AFTER

Rikki Keenan has accepted an offer from the Modesto Chamber of Commerce for the newly created position of Stanislaus Green Team Coordinator. Rikki will proactively coordinate a collaborative effort between private businesses, municipal and county solid waste divisions, economic development professionals and the community of Stanislaus County to implement environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility. She has Rikki Keenan 15+ years of experience in business and project management and has used her strength in technology to streamline business systems and operations for many companies. The heart of what drives Rikki is her passion for people and the powerful recognition that one person can make a difference in the world no matter what their cause is.

For more information on the Stanislaus Green Team, contact Rikki Keenan at (209) 577-5757 Ext.103 or email RKeenan@ModChamber.org. P

Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group is

proud to announce that two of their staff received notice of passing the difficult California Professional Engineers Exam for Civil Engineering. The two newly-licensed civil engineers are Oscar Daza and Maija Madec. “Passing the exam is the final step to obtain a professional engineer license; this is a milestone event in an engineer’s professional development”, said Dale Melville, the president of Provost & Pritchard. “We are proud of Oscar and Maija for this major accomplishment in their careers.” For more information please call (209) 845-8700. P

Maija Madec

Oak Valley Community Bank recently

announced that Karrie Knight has joined the bank as AVP, Branch Manager of the 12th & I location in Modesto. Knight oscar Daza has 12 years of banking experience throughout the Central Valley. During that time, she served in branch manager and real estate lending officer positions. Knight currently lives in North Stockton with her fiancé Manny and son Taylor. For more information on Oak Valley Community Bank, call 1-866-844-7500 or Karrie Knight visit www.ovcb.com. P

Oak Valley Community Bank recently announced that Michael Petrucelli has joined the bank as Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer.

He will be primarily based in Manteca. With 28 years of banking experience in the San Joaquin Valley, Petrucelli will be responsible for expanding the Bank’s commercial lending efforts in the Manteca area. Petrucelli currently lives in Tracy with his wife Susan and their two children. For more information on Oak Valley Community Bank, call 1-866-844-7500 or visit www.ovcb.co P

Michael Petrucelli

NOvember

19

e c o n omi c dev elop ment

New Member profiles The Business & Entrepreneurship Center (BEC), at the Kern Community College District, serves the Central Valley by strengthening, assisting and expanding local business success and youth entrepreneurship through partnership and collaborations with industry, education and government. Our services target: energy, agriculture, health services, manufacturing, and logistics & transportation. We provide assistance with business enhancement and retention, one-on-one consulting services, and workshops in leadership, industry concepts and technology. We are also an initiative of the Economic and Workforce Development Program through the California Community Colleges. For more information please call (661) 336-5010 or visit www.beccv.com. P

National Alliance on Mental Illness of Stanislaus County (NAMI Stanislaus) is a non-profit organization that offers education

and support to individuals with mental illness and their families. NAMI offers a full calendar of free self-help classes. We promote excellence in care by serving on Mental Health committees and educating the community to end stigma about mental illness. We accomplish these goals through membership dues, donations and grants. For more information, please contact: NAMI Stanislaus, 500 North 9th Street, Modesto or by calling (209) 558-4555, emailing nami@namiStanislaus.org or visit www.namiStanislaus.org. P

Philip Openshaw DDS - Specializing in General, Cosmetic, and

Implant Dentistry. We also have an Elite Invisalign provider in our office. We make your dental health our priority and our state-of-theart equipment and digital technology allow us to offer the best in comprehensive care. We are located at 400 E. Orangeburg Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350. Our office phone number is 209-524-4763. Please visit our website at www.OpenshawSmiles.com, we are also on Facebook and Twitter. Our office hours are Monday 8am-5pm, and Tuesday – Thursday 7:30am-5pm.

Quik Med Electronic Billing Solutions provides a one stop service

to a doctor’s practice. The owner, Mary Marlett, brings to her providers 30+ years of high quality experience in the full fields of medical billing, follow-up, collection and management services for hospitals and medical practices. In today’s medical field, Mary recognizes the struggle doctors face and is determined to “Improve the heartbeat of their practice”; especially in the area of follow-up. Mary is committed to not write-off any charges that are collectible. Call (209) 988-5522.

Established in 1968, EAH Housing is one of the oldest and most respected nonprofit housing developers and managers in the western United States. EAH has developed 83 properties with an aggregate value of over $1 billion and oversees a management portfolio of 9,300 leases. Archway Commons is a beautifully designed family apartment community in Modesto, conveniently located near transportation, shopping, parks and schools. The environmentally responsible development will have a solar array to power common areas, and will seek GreenPoint Rated certification. For more information please contact (209) 496-9971.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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

New Chamber Members Casey Moving Systems

Philip Openshaw DDS

Jay Casey 2209 Fairview Drive Ceres, CA 95307 (209) 531-9010 jaycasey@caseymoving.com www.caseymoving.com Movers & Full Service Storage

Shanna Oliveri 400 E. Orangeburg Avenue, Ste. 4 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 524-4763 shanna@dropenshaw.com www.openshawsmiles.com Dentists

COIT Services Inc.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Pete Bakker 4210 Kiernan Avenue Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 545-2648 pbakker@coitservices.com www.forcoit.com Cleaning and Restoration

Michael Grover 832 12th Street, Ste. 601 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 579-1287 Michael.grover@raymondjames.com www.groverfinancialgroup.com Financial Planners & Services

EAH Inc. or Archway Commons Apartments

Smart & Final #402

Deena Luce 1101 Carver Road Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 496-9971 ac-manager@eahhousing.com www.eahhousing.org Apartments

Marco Lopez 801 9th Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 526-4115 cc402@smartandfinal.com www.smartandfinal.com Warehouses-Wholesale

IBEW Local #684 – Electrical Smart & Final #588 Jim Hunter Workers Linda Sadler 519 12th Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 524-5171 Linda@ibewlu684.org www.ibewlu684.org Labor Organizations

Pacific Mediation Group LLC Debra Campbell 1600 G Street, Suite 201 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 529-9128 dcampbell@pacificmediationgroup.com www.pacificmediationgroup.com Mediation

Passion Boutique Florence Moradkhan 1020 J. Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 614-0571 flormarad@yahoo.com Womens Clothing & Accessories

2900 Standiford Avenue Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 525-9357 cc588@smartandfinal.com www.smartandfinal.com Warehouses-Wholesale

United Cab, Metro Cab, DeSoto Cab SaJad Akbari 1025 Lone Palm Avenue, Suite 8D Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 888-8888 (209) 222-2222 metrocabmodesto@yahoo.com www.modestounitedcab.com Taxi Cab Company

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

This Holiday Season...

Give a Delicious Gift!

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

Diamond Level

• • • •

Local, Hilmar Cheese Gift Baskets and Boxes Perfect for Customers, Clients, Employees, Family and Friends Quantity Discounts Available Order Online at www.hilmarcheese.com Need a Custom Gift?

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Visitor Center Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7 am-7 pm; and Sunday, 7 am-5 pm

9001 N Lander Ave Hilmar, California 209.656.1196 www.hilmarcheese.com

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 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 Clark Pest Control Coit Services Inc. Collins Electrical Comcast Construction Management Corporation Courtyard by Marriott Covanta Stanislaus, Inc. Curtis Legal Group Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

22

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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 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

Joe Rossini Rossini’s Formal Wear

Joe Rossini

For over 50 years, Rossini’s Formal Wear has served the Modesto area with personal tailoring, a full line of menswear, tuxedos for sale and for rent and custom made clothing.

The long-standing menswear shop has operated from its current location on McHenry Avenue since 1982, and has flourished under the leadership of owner Joe Rossini since 1992.

Tell me about your career and professional life. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now?

My mom started running this business in 1965, so I grew up in it. I was originally very interested in automobiles and was thinking about opening my own auto shop. But I thought why reinvent the wheel and work to get something started when I’ve already got a business here that’s already got a tremendous following and an outstanding reputation?

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

To maintain the store’s reputation for quality in clothing and service. We’ve maintained that and sought out employees who understand that. We’ve been successful at that. I wanted to help and serve in my industry associations, and I’ve done that.

One goal was to be self-employed and—knock on wood—that’s still true.

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

Learning so much about clothing and fit and custom made clothing, to me, is a big personal accomplishment. Being voted Modesto’s favorite tuxedo shop in The Modesto Bee’s Reader’s Choice Awards for so many years in a row says a lot. Being able to not only survive, but to keep up our reputation. That’s been a real accomplishment.

What do you like about your job?

The people. I’ve always enjoyed the relationships with customers. I enjoy sending a customer out of here happy and jazzed about their experience and what they bought. When they tell us that they get nothing but compliments on the ties, the shirts, the suits because the quality is much better, because the fit is much better… that’s great.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?

We try to support as many causes as possible, whether its charities or schools or churches and I’ve gone out and rolled up my sleeves and done things with Rotary and Kiwanis. Those are some of the most wonderful organizations I’ve ever been involved with.

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

Don’t stop learning. Learn as much as you can about the basics: the marketing, the accounting, the finances, advertising. Understand that you don’t keep your doors open without a customer, so you need to do what it takes to gain customers and keep them. Keep your eyes open and pay attention to what’s being done by people in other industries. They’re often trying to solve the same problems and they have the same goals. Be adaptable and flexible. And pick a niche you can survive in and serve that niche. Understand your competition, their strengths and weaknesses and get good people to help you. Build a good, positive team.

Also, learn to recognize opportunity. Constantly think about it, think about your options, your moves, your strategy. Develop your plan, but also be ready to take advantage of opportunities when they come up.

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

Modesto has a good-sized group of people who are above average wage earners, but it still acts like a small town in a lot of ways. And that’s nice. I don’t know for sure if we’re going to be in a growth pattern again, but we should. That would mean a lot for retailers. It reverberates through the economy, it makes a difference.

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

As an owner, you’ve got to wear a lot of hats. And it’s been an ongoing education process for me to learn about marketing, advertising, accounting and of course when I got out of Junior College, there was no such thing as a PC. That’s been a whole new thing that has helped, too.

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

NOvember

23

c o m m u ni ty develop ment

Pre-Order Your 2013 C alifornia Employment Poster Today!

Leadership modesto Community Ser vice Day Jori Novotny NAI Benchmark The Leadership Modesto class met on Friday November 2, 2012 to learn about community service and non-profit organizations in the Modesto area. The class was given homework to report on their favorite non-profit organizations. It was such a good feeling to learn how each person held a special organization close to them. We usually volunteer or donate to organizations that have a special meaning to us.

The day was filled with guest speakers and field trips to local centers. We heard from Marian Kaanon from the Stanislaus Community Foundation and Tyler Nunes, a very talented and upcoming star of the big screen and a recipient of a Wish from the Make a Wish Foundation, a foundation that grants wishes to children with life threatening, but not necessarily terminal illnesses. We boarded a bus and visited the amazing new state of the art Animal Shelter. Lunch was served at Howard Training Center by their very talented culinary artists. Lunch was followed by hard labor as we planted flowers and spruced up Hope Village, the newly completed, 21 unit residential neighborhood by Habitat for Humanity. Then on to United Way where we learned how they help our community by supporting other non-profit organizations through Health, Income, and Education programs. We wrapped up our day with a visit from Kenni Freeman, the Queen of being on a board of directors. Kenni spoke to us about what it means to be on a board and what is expected of us.

This day was packed full of opportunities for a person to give back to the community. I challenge every one of you to go out there and find an organization that means something to you where you can volunteer.

Make a difference, volunteer, donate, get out there and make a change, lend a hand, lend a dollar, lend your talents, everything helps, everyone has something to give, and everyone needs a little help now and then.

-30th Class of Leadership Modesto. For more information please visit http://www.stanislauscommunityfoundation.org. P

Order the Mandatory 2013 California and Federal Employment Poster from the Modesto Chamber and Avoid Potential Fines and Penalties.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is making it easy for your business to comply with California’s labor laws. No matter how many employees you have in California, your business is required by law to post a current California and Federal Employment Poster in a central location. As part of a special partnership with the CalChamber, the Modesto Chamber is currently taking pre-orders for the updated 2013 California and Federal Employment Poster. The CalChamber’s all-in-one poster contains the 16 required state and federal employment notices every California employer must post. CalChamber is a trusted source for California and federal compliance products, with more than 120 years of experience helping California business do business.

The 2013 poster includes the mandatory update to the Discrimination and Harassment notice, effective January 1, 2013. In addition,

• The Cal/OSHA notice has changed.

• The Employee Polygraph Protection Act notice has changed.

• There are pending changes to the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) notices. If approved for 2013, these will be mandatory changes.

• Implementation of workers’ compensation reform measures will also begin in 2013. As a result, there are potential mandatory changes to the Workers’ Compensation notice and pamphlet regarding employees’ rights and benefits and employer obligations.

Failure to comply and have a current poster posted in a central location at your workplace could result in significant fines and penalties. Posters must be displayed in a conspicuous place where all employees can easily read it, such as a break room, common hallway, payroll office or other common location. Employers must also display posters in each company location.

The Modesto Chamber wants to make sure your business is in compliance and urges you to place your 2013 poster order today to ensure delivery by January 1. Posters will be shipped in mid-December.

Please call the Modesto Chamber at (209) 577-5757 or go to www.modchamber.org and order your poster today. P

24

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

WORK IN

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

C’est Joli Brings Joie De Vivre to Downtown Shopping

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

For downtown Modesto retailer C’est Joli, the highest

only those that customers don’t have to try on. This

goal is always to live up to its name. The French

helps C’est Joli appeal to the downtown area’s

name of this two-year-old gallery and boutique on

copious foot traffic. “It’s nice to have a place where

13th Street near J Street translates to “it’s pretty,”

you can come in quick and browse.”

and a quick peek inside shows that the merchandise does not disappoint. The shop specializes in

Hawn shares that opening C’est Joli fulfills her

offering a range of new and vintage French-inspired

longtime yearning to open a shop of her own.

accessories, home décor, jewelry, purses and knick-

“When my husband started his own business, he

knacks aimed at a primarily female clientele.

gave me a storefront [the shop’s original location on

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

11th Street] and C’est Joli grew from there.” Hawn Owner Nancy Hawn says that in her many years

adds that while she primarily stocks items that she’s

involved in downtown Modesto’s development,

interested in, she also stays alert for items that will

she always thought the area needed a shop like

appeal to her customers’ evolving tastes in fashion

C’est Joli, “a little shop for women who are on their

and decor. Hawn says that she also strives to stock

lunch breaks or on jury duty,” says Hawn. Hawn has

items appearing in national magazines and at

handpicked the shop’s items to ensure that goods

the popular San Francisco gift show to make sure

are limited to items that would be easy for customers

that C’est Joli’s offerings remain on-trend with the

to walk around with, and clothing items are limited to

industry. “I’m always looking for that next thing, but it’s always kind of a guess.”

store is original. It’s always fun to have

You can find new and current members online at www.modchamber.org, or through our 2012 directory at www.villageprofile.com/california/modesto.

C’est Joli’s storefront is a popular stop during the Third Thursday Art Walk, an event that Hawn says is a favorite of hers. “My husband and I are both artists, and all of the art that’s in the store is original. It’s

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.

always fun to have people come in and talk about the art and talk about the shop. [The Art Walk] has gained a lot of momentum the past few years.”

people come in and talk about the art...”

neverboring.com

the art that’s in the

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.

•

are both artist and all of

MODESTO MEANs BUSINESS

© Never Boring Design

“My husband and I

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

C’est Joli is located at 920 13th Street in Modesto and is open Tuesday - Friday, 11am to 5pm. P

NOvember

25

ne t w ork i ng & referrals

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

Chamber Calendar

5

Stanislaus Green

10

Business Before Hours:

Team Meeting

Location: Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th Street, Ste 102 Time: 10:00-11:00 a.m.

H & R Block Location: 3900 Pelandale Avenue, Suite 425 Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

6

Business Before Hours:

17

Twigs & Stems Location: 429 McHenry Avenue Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

13

Business After Hours: Kemper CPA Group, LLP Location: 1700 Standiford Ave Suite 200 Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Business After Hours:

US Bank Location: 1120 11th Street Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

26

Annual Gala & Member

26

January 2013

December 2012

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Choice Awards

Location: Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I Street Time: 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

As part of a year-long celebration of Doctors Medical Center’s 50th Anniversary in 2012, an employee recognition event was held at the hospital on Tuesday, October 16. DMC CEO Warren J. Kirk recognized three of DMC’s longest-standing employees: Albie Perino R N (Cardiology), 50 years; Pat Fontes RN (Nursing Administration), 48 years; and Sherry Ille (Case Management), 46 years. Mr. Kirk congratulated them and presented each with an award and commemoration of their long service, thanking them and all DMC employees for their dedication to the hospital and to the patients and community they serve. P

He just saved two hours.

And a copay.

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

Members can:

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