Progress February 2023

Bank With Us Love Your Bank

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Bank of Stockton has been a stable and secure choice for more than 155 years. We offer all of the products and services customers expect from a bigger bank along with the advantages of a bank that is truly invested in you and your community.

Choose Better. Choose Kaiser Permanente.

A Message From The President & CEO

Off tO the Races

By Trish Christensen

We kicked off January with a huge bang! Our first Inspire Youth Inspire Dreams Career Exploration 8th grade Expo was such a success! Cohosted by Modesto City Schools, the event was supported by a broad mix of people from our business and education committee, partners, sponsors, 60 high school program pathways, and close to 250 industry, faculty, and high school student volunteers. We collectively witnessed the buzz and energy of approximately 4200 students coming and going in waves, from 4 different school districts, in a five-and-a-half-hour window, utilizing 26+ buses. All I can really say is we can’t wait for the next one! Thank you to all who played a role in the success of this incredible event.

One week following the Expo was our Annual Awards and Anniversaries Soiree, and what a wonderful evening it was. With approximately 350 in attendance, we all enjoyed food sampling from a wonderful mix of restaurants. We took the opportunity to introduce the Modesto Chamber board members joining and retiring from our board of directors. We introduced our Leadership Modesto 2023 classmates and steering committee members. We took the opportunity to introduce our Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation inaugural board and wrapped up the program by celebrating our ten award recipients for their good work in 2022. What an evening to be proud of!

Our Rising Professionals Network hosts their next quarterly Rise and Shine with the Executives breakfast Thursday, February 9th. This leadership session leans into education with the panel participants being Scott Kuykendahl, Superintendent of Stanislaus County Office of Education; Dr. Sara Noguchi, Superintendent of Modesto City School District, and retired Modesto Junior College Foundation Executive Director, George Boodrookas. Information and to register, please go to our website.

April 20th will be when we hold the next Ag Aware Luncheon. This is an annual scholarship fundraiser for our local Future Farmers of America (FFA) high school programs.

Please save the date and make it a point to buy a ticket or sponsor this long-standing tradition. Once again this will take place at the ACE Ag Pavilion, Modesto Junior College, West. Last year’s event came close to full attendance even though it was not too long after the covid spike of last winter. This year we hope to draw a greater crowd and raise a greater amount of scholarship dollars which we divide equally between our high school, including Center Catholic, FFA programs.

Watch our news and social media platforms for constantly added networking opportunities. These include new member/new business/member anniversary ribbon cuttings, green certified/sustainability ribbon cuttings, and our Member Mix & Mingles. We just love to celebrate with our members and partners! There will also be a couple of Multi Chamber Mixers on the horizon.

For our members specifically, if you, or members of your team would serve your organization well as a great networker and would love to celebrate our members at things like ribbon cuttings and mixers, please send them our way. We are actively growing our Welcome Team! Know that our Economic Development Committee meets on the first Wednesday of each month and the Government Relations Council meets on the third Friday of each month, both from 11:30 to 1. Both with refreshed leadership and energy. Our Stanislaus Green Team meets on the third Thursday of each month at noon. Our Women in Business Network meets on the third Tuesday and Rising Professionals on the forth Thursday but rotate by month from a breakfast/coffee session, a lunch and learn, to an evening ”mixer”. Tech Connect is currently meeting quarterly in the evenings.

We look forward to seeing you and your team at all the above you can attend, member or not.

With warm regards,

Trish

Each member of the Chamber is important, no matter the size of business. We desire for local businesses and organizations to succeed and thrive. To reach this goal we provide exposure, opportunities to engage with Regional Electeds and community partners, as well as networking with businesses and organizations across industries. We work to better our community by providing up-to-date education and training, certifying qualifying businesses as Green, and providing advocacy on City, State, and Federal levels. The Chamber is a family of dedicated professionals striving to make a difference in their business and way of life. Whatever your business needs are, we invite you to join us.

To execute our adopted mission we have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”

C - Community

At its heart, the Modesto Chamber is a community of like-minded business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live, work and play. With over 100 years of history and experience in the Greater Modesto Area, we understand what it means to be a business owner and customer in our community, with featured events such as local and regional forums, Ag Aware, Harvest Luncheon, and Family Day. Chamber members get the opportunity to actively engage in and influence the community they live and work in.

A - Advocacy

The Modesto Chamber supports local businesses and is an active advocate for the common interest of its members. The Chamber has an Economic Development Committee and a Government Relations Council. These advocacy committees are dedicated and proactive in representing our members and community. They work to address business initiatives and relieve the regulatory burdens businesses face may face. The Chamber is also honored to certify local businesses and organizations through our California Green Business Network Stanislaus Program. Through this we create more conscientious and sustainable ways of life while lowering the cost of doing business for our community and future generations.

R - Relationships

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce specializes in building relationships and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies. With over a dozen Committees, Programs, and Events in which our members can participate, the Chamber offers ample opportunity to meet and connect with other business owners in our community. As a relational organization, the Chamber works with its members to ensure the opportunity to connect and grow in every niche and industry to help build and cultivate long-lasting relationships among business owners and community partners alike.

E - Education

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce values education and offers members the opportunity to stay on the leading edge with new and emerging information and training that will set your business apart from the rest. In partnership with Modesto Junior College, the Chamber is pleased to offer an assortment of trainings applicable to any business or industry for credited completion through our Chamber University platform. Our Chamber also works with members to provide a platform to speak to their own industry expertise and invite other members to learn from those leading our local industries.

S - Service

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce offers its members a wide range of opportunities to promote and engage their business across industry and community lines. The Chamber Weekly E-Blast, Website, and our Progress Magazine provide opportunities to advertise and promote your business, keep up to date with articles about local businesses in our community, and stay in the loop about up-and-coming Chamber and community events. Our Chamber also offers indemand materials, such as Member contact list, Federal and State compliance posters, export document services, and so much more. Chamber members can also personalize their business profile within our website and have access to our Member-Only Information Center, where members can connect with other members, boost their social media presence, promote job postings, public events, and member-to-member discounts.

Mission stateMent

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.

executive coMMittee

Chairman - Michael Gaffney, PG&E

Past Chairman - Steve Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.

Vice Chair, External Operations - Michael Moradian

Jr. - Peace of Mind Pest Control

Vice Chair, Internal Operations, Treasurer - Patricia

Gillum Pat Gillum CPA

Chairperson Elect - Kirstie Boyett Zacharias, Executive Director at American Leadership ForumGreat Valley Chapter

board of directors

Garrett Ardis- Huff Construction Company Inc.

Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments

David Halvorson Jr.

Debra Hendricks - Debra Hendricks Consulting

Amy Jefferies - Gianelli Nielsen

Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center

Rachell Le Viege - Lift-A-Hand Home Care Agency

Eric Mangal, Grimbleby Coleman CPAS Inc.

Brian McDermott

Kymber Miller- Sysco Central California Inc.

Peggy O'Donnell, Mid-Valley Productions

Edgar Perez - F&M Bank

Jason Pineda, Freshpoint Inc.

Bill Robinson, Principal Financial Group

Kari Santos - I.J. Larsen Pumps

DeJeune Shelton- Modesto Junior College

Madhu Singh, Bank of Stockton

John Villines- Modesto Gospel Mission

President & CEO

Trish Christensen

Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce

209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org

Graphic design: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141 • www.209magazine.com

Printer: 209 Magazine

209.634.9141 • hvanderveen@209magazine.com

distribution: 209 Magazine

209.634.9141

advertising sales: crogers@oakdaleleader.com

209.845.4074

© Copyright 2021 Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing. 209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org

staff:

Administrative Assistant, Stephen Shaw

Sustainability Coordinator, Jolene Camarena

Events Coordinator, Felicia Lopez

Membership Coordinator, Lizeth Rocha Staff Accountant, Jaime Lastra

Modesto ChaMber of CoMMerCe I ModChaMber.org

CHAMBER CALENDAR

1 economic develoPment committee

*Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M.

2 green ribbon cutting SunOpta

555 Mariposa Rd Modesto

11:15 AM-11:45 AM

9 rising Professionals – rise & shine with ceo’s DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto

1150 9th St. Modesto

7:30am check in -8:00 AM – 9:15 AM

*Register on website

9 ribbon cutting

BC Cryo Sculpt

1700 McHenry Suite 56 Modesto, CA 10:00 AM- 11:00 AM

9 members mix and mingle - direct aPPliance

2412 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95350 5:00pm -6:30pm

16 stanislaus green team meeting Parry Klassen, Executive Director Valley Water Collaborative

*In person & Zoom 12:00 P.M. Register on website

17 ambassador & welcome team meeting

*In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M

17 government relations council Adam Barth CEO Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA)

*In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

20 President’s day- office closed

21 women in business lunch & learn

931 10th St. Modesto, CA 95354

12:00 PM – 1:00PM

Register on website

23 members mix and mingle – comcast

See website for details

march

1 economic develoPment committee

*Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M.

9 rising Professionals – lunch & learn

Location TBD

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

*Register on website-$16 per person

16

stanislaus green team meeting

*In person & Zoom 12:00 P.M. Register on website

17

ambassador & welcome team meeting

*In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M

17 government relations council

Mani Grewal Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors

*In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

21 women in business lunch & learn

Location TBD

12:00 PM – 1:00PM

Register on website

*See website for more detail.

Find Zoom Registry links and more at www.modchamber.org

Please note that calendar events and details are subject to change.

first babies of 2023 annoUnCeMent

We are excited to share information about the first newborns of 2023 at Doctors Medical Center!

Limited information will be provided on our first baby, but we can share that baby boy was born on Jan. 1, 2023, at 12:18 a.m. He weighed in at 8 lbs. 2 oz., and measured 19.5 inches long.

The first baby girl born at Doctors Medical Center was born on Jan. 1, 2023 at 3:25 a.m. Parents Shondricka and Alfred welcomed baby Amiyah. She weighed in at 8 lbs. 1 oz., and measured 18 inches long.

At Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock Parminder and Makhan welcomed their baby girl at 6:40 p.m. on Jan. 1, 2023. They are happy to share this memorable moment with the community. She weighed 7 lbs. 4 oz., and measured 21.5 inches long.

Serving the Underserved

Amy Collier Carroll, Golden Valley Health Centers / Vice-President & Chief Communications Officer

A little-known fact about Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC) is that we are part of the largest network of primary care providers in the nation, serving 30 million people per year. This national network of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is more vital now than ever, particularly as the nation grapples with overlapping health, economic, and climate crises that are disproportionately impacting the underserved communities we care for and support.

As the need for our services continues to grow, health centers like GVHC are facing one of the most challenging and uncertain times in the past 50-years. In a matter of months, we are approaching the expiration of our federal funding while simultaneously navigating unprecedented workforce and infrastructure challenges.

We need our leaders in Congress to act swiftly in making critical investments in the Health Center Program. These critical investments will support community health centers like GVHC in sustaining essential operations, infrastructure, workforce, and innovation efforts.

Historically, Health Centers have seen strong bipartisan support from policymakers at the federal level. We have a proven track record and have been dependable, consistent stewards of taxpayer dollars for generations. We deliver quality health care services to 30 million patients each year with more than 90% of those patients living at or below 200% of the federal poverty line and nearly 70% uninsured or receiving Medi-Care.

Community Health Centers are good for the economy, saving taxpayers billions every year. Every dollar invested in health centers has returned value to American taxpayers. The program generates annual system-wide savings of $24 billion annually because fewer health center patients require emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Nationally, health centers employ 250,000 people annually and save the health care system $24 billion each year. Here in the Central Valley, GVHC employs more than 1,000 individuals and serves as the health care home to 140,000 patients.

What makes our work impactful and unique is that our governance model, commitment, and approach to caring for the community is grounded in being responsive to the shifting demographics and cultural identities represented in our community.

We don’t just serve this community; our providers, staff, and even our board members live in and are a part of the community. That same consumer majority board of directors helps to inform the true needs and challenges that exist within the community for our patients. Under their leadership, and with ongoing community engagement and input, we innovate constantly to provide programs and tailored services to our patients.

At GVHC we stretch limited resources to ensure our patients have access to services that keep them and their families healthy and thriving. We are proud of the legacy we’ve built over the past 50 years as a local health equity hub, but we also know there is much more to be done.

Today, the unfortunate reality is that health centers across our country are operating within a cycle of uncertain funding which wreaks havoc on operations, recruitment and retention, and overall solvency. Additionally, our workforce—comprised of members of the very communities we serve—has been on the frontlines throughout more than two years of historic challenges to our health care system.

Community Health Centers save lives and provide high-quality care to all patients. Research shows that health centers improve health outcomes, and narrow health disparities, even while serving more highrisk, low-income patients. Despite serving patients with a higher prevalence of chronic disease and socioeconomic disadvantages, health centers perform as well as or better than other healthcare settings on diverse measures of access and quality of care. Health center patients experience fewer low birth weight babies, have healthier pregnancy outcomes, higher immunization rates and reduced infection and death rates from COVID-19, and improved measures on hypertension and diabetes. Health centers are transparent, trusted, and essential stewards of public health. We go the distance to serve the underserved.

"Historically, Health Centers have seen strong bipartisan support from policymakers at the federal level. We have a proven track record and have been dependable, consistent stewards of taxpayer dollars for generations."

boomers Is the Place to Unleash fun

With five acres of indoor and outdoor attractions to enjoy, you're sure to have a blast. Boomers features Mini-Golf, Bumper Boats, Go-karts, Lazer Tag, Spin Zone Bumper Cars, and the only Flame Thrower in the Valley.

For extra fun, Boomers has Batting Cages, an Arcade and Chill Zone with Sports Bar and NEW menu to keep your tank full while you play.

Host a day of family fun, treat your team with a company picnic or hold a team building event! Boomers has special group and party packages that will make your event unforgettable.

Boomers features private and semi-private areas throughout the park including private rooms for parties or business meetings and a covered picnic area for large group outings.

Boomers Backyard offers a relaxed area with large lawn games, lounge furniture, fire pits and flat screen TVs.

Boomers offers fun options for guests of all ages.

VIP Management, Inc.

109th Annual 109th Annual Members Choice Members Choice Awards & Anniversaries Awards & Anniversaries soirée sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Kirstie Boyett Zacharias

Soirée Sponsors

109th Annual 109th Annual

Members Choice Awards & Anniversaries Members Choice Awards & Anniversaries

Soirée

Modesto’s almond blossom Cruise: the Party of the Year

Imagine walking into an elaborately decorated ballroom with intentions of hours of entertainment and fun ahead of you. As you head to the coat check, the attendant has absolutely no idea what you are here to celebrate or how you stumbled across this party of the year. As a partygoer, you would be a bit baffled, wouldn’t you? Now, let’s walk this scenario into focus a bit…

Modesto is deeply rooted in agricultural industry and innovation. Mother Nature and Modesto area farmers work all year long to put on a spectacular show in early Spring in California’s Central Valley. Visit Modesto leaned into these roots and built an entire pillar of tourism around it known as the Almond Blossom Cruise.

This cruise requires no passport or flotation devices and yet, it draws upwards of 100,000 visitors historically to Modesto and surrounding areas each year in mid-February to mid-March. Visitors come from Los Angeles, Reno, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Portland, Seattle, and so many more to experience and admire the ornate and charming fields of trees in bloom. If you are still uncertain of exactly what all the fuss is about, you can go to AlmondBlossomCruise. com for all information and updates.

You’ll quickly learn that the backdrop to your daily life, routine, and quite possibly well-being is a major tourist attraction with the Almond Blossom Cruise. As business owners, residents, and locals, you are in the unique position to augment the experience of these wide-eyed cruisers because they’ll be all over from Waterford to downtown Modesto and everywhere in between.

These travelers come to be present at the biggest party of the year put on by almond trees in and around Modesto. And no party is complete without some preparations, adventures, and memories made along the journey.

These can be in the form of a weekend getaway complete with overnight stays in a Modesto hotel, a delectable meal at an innovative and exciting restaurant about town, a few photo stops, an ‘it is totally worth it’ indulgence for an almond butter milkshake from Roberts Ferry Gourmet, some retail therapy to grab the perfect scarf to tie up hair so the top can be put down on the convertible for the drive, and a few stops for gas along the way.

Help do your part to ensure everyone coming into Modesto has the best time at the ball. Hospitality shapes experiences and crafts perceptions that last a lifetime. Modesto businesses can bloom with the almond orchards this year if everyone embraces the event. Let’s put on the best celebration yet.

Kristin Galloway, Business Development Manager with Visit Modesto

exciting updates at The DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto

By Vanessa Emo - Director of Sales & Marketing

If you walked by the DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto the first week of January and thought you heard jackhammering, you probably did. Our Lobby, Restaurant and Event Space renovation started with the demolition of the hotel’s Lobby and Front Desk Area. We just began the renovation of the hotel’s Grand Ballroom, followed by, the restaurant and lobby lounge with a completion date of March 2023. The new color scheme features crisp, cool lines, accented with subtle pops of color, for a truly modern and refined design. We can’t wait to unveil the new look for our guests and visitors to Modesto!

We are still open during the renovation and encourage our clients to take advantage of a new Hilton Triple Points Promotion. When you contract and realize a minimum of ten (10) group rooms per night, you will earn triple Hilton Honors points. Whether you’ve got a travel sports team, wedding guests or corporate meeting coming up, we’ve got a great rate to offer you! To learn more about this promotion, please contact the Hotel’s Sales Office at (209) 525-3012.

When planning your next meeting or celebrating a special occasion, remember the DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto can host events from 10 to 1500 people in attendance. Our Culinary Team creates dishes that are a delight to see and will tantalize your taste buds. Our Meetings & Event Specialists are your local experts who will help guide you to a successful and worry-free day. To reach our team, please call (209) 525-3012 and we would be delighted to assist you!

You will always find a warm welcome at the DoubleTree highlighted by our signature chocolate chip, oatmeal and walnut cookie! DoubleTree held a contest for guests to design a new cookie sleeve. The winning design will be featured beginning at the end of January in DoubleTree hotels around the world. Thank you to the DoubleTree guest Sarah A. for creating such a memorable design to wrap our cookies in and greet our guests upon arrival

Parry

February 16, 2023

MEETING STARTS AT 12:00 PM

1114 J St. Modesto

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM MEETING HYBRID

REGISTER HERE https://business.modchamber.org/events/det ails/stanislaus-green-team-meeting-20239418

TOPIC:

Director

Industry-funded well testing program providing solutions to nitrate contamination of private wells

Valley Water Collaborative (VWC) is a nonprofit entity encompassing two Management Zones, an option in the Nitrate Control Program (NCP) adopted in 2019 by the State Water Resources Control Board. The NCP regulates agriculture, dairies, publicly owned wastewater treatment facilities and businesses including food processors, wineries and others.

The Best of Both W rlds

SUNOPTA ACHIEVES CALIFORNIA GREEN BUSINESS CERTIFICATION AND ZERO WASTE TO LANDFILL AT MODESTO MANUFACTURING FACILITY

Global Food Pioneer Attains Sustainability Goals

SunOpta, a global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based and fruit-based food and beverages, today announced it has received Green Business Certification in California and achieved zero waste to landfill at its Modesto manufacturing facility.

“As a sustainable, plant-based food and beverage company, sustainability is at the root of everything we do at SunOpta,” said Levi Pomerantz, continuous improvement manager, SunOpta. “We’re proud to achieve both Green Business Certification and zero waste to landfill in Modesto, and we will continue to embrace opportunities that lie ahead as we work to sustainably fuel the future of food.”

Green Business Certification

The California Green Business Network- Stanislaus, a program of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce signifies SunOpta is in compliance with all environmental regulations and meets program standards for saving water, conserving energy, preventing pollution and minimizing waste.

The California Green Business Network leads the state and nation in working with small to medium sized businesses to create a vibrant green economy. Led by a coalition of cities and counties, it contributes by helping to make California communities healthier and more livable while also conserving resources and saving money.

Zero Waste

SunOpta achieved zero waste to landfill at its Modesto facility by reusing or recycling materials such as batteries, metals, oils, pallets, bulk bags and barrels.

For example, SunOpta recycled 2,589 tons of waste, 13 tons of cardboard, and additionally reused more than 3,718 pallets, which saved many trees and thousands of dollars. Anything that cannot be reused, recycled or upcycled is turned into energy to power local utilities in the community.

Zero waste is just one of SunOpta’s sustainability goals. Last year, SunOpta released its 2021 ESG report, outlining its goals and progress across four key areas: products, planet, people and governance.

The SunOpta sustainability strategy includes aspirational goals related to carbon emission savings, recyclable packaging, upcycling food waste, and water conservation.

By 2025, SunOpta has ambitious goals to double its plant-based business. SunOpta is the first publicly traded producer of oatmilk, the second most popular plant-based beverage on the market. For decades, SunOpta has collaborated with some of the most planet-friendly brands, including the largest coffee shop chain in the world.

SunOpta has recently made a $26 million investment in oat extraction at its Modesto facility to enable the production of more oat-based products and ingredients, underscoring the importance of the company’s presence in Modesto.

About SunOpta, Inc.

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is a Minnesota-based, global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based and fruit-based food and beverages. With its deep roots and dynamic growth, SunOpta today leads innovation to positively impact people and the planet. Specifically, SunOpta manufactures organic, non-GMO, plant-based and specialty products sold through retail and foodservice channels. SunOpta operates as a co-manufacturer for leading brands and a manufacturer for private label and ingredients. SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream™, West Life™ and Sunrise Growers™. For more information, visit www.sunopta.com and LinkedIn.

PRESIdENT’S cLub CirCle Of influenCe

Elit E

E & J Gallo Winery

Kaiser Permanente

K E yston E

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc., a HUB

International Company

Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Frito-Lay Co., Inc.

Pacific Southwest Container, Inc.

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Visionary

Blue Diamond Growers

Crystal Creamery

Doubletree by Hilton Modesto

Fiscalini Cheese Company

IHeart Media

Modesto Irrigation District

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Sutter Health Valley Area

Sysco Central California Inc.

E nthusiast

Alpine Protective Solutions

American Chevrolet

American Medical Response

Astound Business Solutions Powered by Wave

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Audi Modesto Bank of Stockton

California State University, Stanislaus

Care One Home Health and Hospice, Inc.

CareOne Home Health

Central Valley Automotive

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

Central Valley Nissan

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Clark Pest Control

COIT Services Inc.

Collins Electrical Comcast

Del Monte Plant #1

Dhillon Healthcare Group

English Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Hospital

Exceed GPR & Locating, LLC

F&M Bank

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Food Maxx

FreshPoint

Gianelli Nielsen

Gilton Solid Waste Mgmt, Inc.

Golden Valley Health Centers

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Infiniti of Modesto

International Paper Co.

JS West & Companies

Legacy Home Care

Maxx Value Foods

Mocse Credit Union

Modesto Toyota

Nine3One

O'Brien's Market

Oak Valley Community Bank

Opportunity Stanislaus

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Pepsi Bottling Group

PMZ Real Estate

Residence Inn by Marriott Modesto North

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Rose Bouquet

San Joaquin Valley College

Save Mart Supermarkets

Seva Hospice

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Stanislaus Food Products Co.

Stifel Investment Services

Storer Coachways

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

The Century

The Farmacy

The Parks Group

TSM Insurance & Financial Services

Turlock Irrigation District

Union Bank

US Bank

Valley BMW

Valley Children's Healthcare

Valley First Credit Union

Valley Lexus

Varni Brothers Corporation

Vintage Faire Mall/Macerich Company

Walmart

Warden's Office Products Center

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency

Yosemite Foods Inc.

ContaCt the Chamber to learn more about our president's Club level benefits

to this month ' s milestone mem B erships

70 + years

Jensen & Jensen Attorneys

55 + years

Cumulus m edi A

40 + years

Kemper C pA Group, llp

Centr A l C Atholi C h i G h sC hool

y osemite Community Colle G e

d istri C t

30 + years

e mployment d evelopment

d epA rtment

Best Western t o W nhouse l od G e

m o-C A l o ffi C e s olutions

sAtAK e us A i n C

m odesto Gospel m ission

20 + years

d ire C t Appli A n C e

7/11 mAteri A ls, i n C

h ome W ood v ill AG e m o B ilehome Community

m o C se Credit u nion

Bri G hter s ide

A s tep A B ove f loorin G , i n C .

e xpress e mployment p rofession A ls

15 + years

GreenWor K s Commer C i A l J A nitori A l s ervi C es, i n C . pAtri C i A A. Gillum, C pA

Green r u BB er-Kennedy A G

m etrolist s ervi C es, i n C

s tep Aside p est mA n AG ement, i n C

s prin Gh ill s uites B y mA rriott

10 + years

i ntrinsi C e lements

s tAte fA rm i nsur A n C e

l odi Asso C i Ation of r e A ltors, i n C .

s tA nisl A us Coun C il of Governments ( s tA nC o G)

5 + years

ms West e nterprises d BA Certified Collision Center s ylvA n u nion sC hool d istri C t t rophy Wor K s, i n C . m odesto Kidz d entA l

A CA demy m ort GAG e Corpor Ation

1 + years

s tifel i nvestment s ervi C es

Cer A mi C G A r AG e l i G hthouse p sy C holo G i CA l s ervi C es... A Be AC on of l i G ht e x C eed G pr & l o CAtin G , ll C Ashley h omestore

t uolumne m e-Wu K t ri BA l tA nf Golden vA lley h e A lth Centers Burly's C A liforni A Bistro, i n C dA le Commons

City m inistry n et W or K

Cle A n Brothers

G A r C i A B A il Bonds

B Ay p o W er

Ameri CA n l e A dership f orum - Gre At

vA lley Ch A pter

C entr A l vA lley A sso C i Ation of re A ltors

e l s ol r estA ur A nt

The Importance of being a Part of your Local Chambers as a Local Small business Owner

By Kathryn Kim Ramos, Sisbro Innovation Online Marketing / Modesto, CA

As a local small business owner, being a part of your local chamber of commerce can be incredibly beneficial for your business. Chambers of commerce are organizations that provide resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for the local business community. Joining a chamber can help you to build connections, increase visibility, and gain access to valuable resources that can help your business grow.

One of the key advantages of being a part of your local chamber is the networking opportunities it provides. Chambers host a variety of events, such as business mixers and networking breakfasts, where you can connect with other local business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs.

These events can be an excellent way to establish new business relationships, gain exposure for your business, and learn from others in your community.

Another important aspect is access to resources and information. Chambers often provide members with access to valuable resources such as business directories, market research, and training programs. They also offer advice, mentorship, and educational seminars to support the professional development of their members.

Additionally, being a member of a chamber can also help to increase the visibility and credibility of your business. Many chambers display the member's information and logos on their websites, directory, and brochures, which can help to increase your business's visibility and credibility in the community.

The online listing on the Chamber's website also creates an online citation listing for your business. Citation listings help with your website ranking, and the more citations you have, Google and potential clients view you as an authority within your industry.

Being a part of your local chamber of commerce can also help you to advocate for your business interests.

Chambers often work to promote the interests of their members by lobbying on behalf of small businesses at the local, state, and federal levels.

This can help to ensure that your business's needs are considered when important decisions are made.

Being a part of your local chamber of commerce is essential for local small business owners.

It provides networking opportunities, access to resources, increased visibility and credibility, and advocacy for business

These benefits can help to give your business a competitive edge and help you to succeed in today's fast-paced business

For more information on managing your company's online presence, if you need a new or updated website or are looking for a virtual assistant to support you and answer your phones, go to www.sisbroinnovation.com or call Sisbro Innovation at

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 1, 2023

Contact: Samantha Jones 209.576.1608 x 105 sjones@stanislauscf.org

Stanislaus Community Foundation Announces Appointments to Board of Directors and Committees

Stanislaus Community Foundation (SCF), a charitable organization dedicated to stewarding charitable resources and building a more vibrant Stanislaus, announces the appointment of two community leaders to its Board of Directors and two community members to its Audit and Scholarship committees.

Joining the Stanislaus Community Foundation Board of Directors are the following community members:

Khani Gustafson – Khani is, by profession, a social worker with 30 years of diverse field experience. She began her career with Stanislaus County juvenile justice, before entering the mental health/behavioral health space. As a County Behavioral Health Manager, she implemented a variety of innovative programs. During Khani’s tenure as Executive Director of Stanislaus County Children’s Council, she worked closely with the directors of county public service organizations and the county CEO to address critical health and wellness needs of children, youth and families. Her investment in system changes for healthy and thriving communities prompted her to seek a place where she could broaden her scope to the entire state and continue moving the county forward in innovation. She joined the team at the California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions (CIBHS) in Sacramento. At CIBHS, Khani operated as a program/project manager where she engaged with multiple collaborators with subject matter expertise to develop and implement policy and practices to improve mental health and behavioral health services. Khani is now retired and ready to pursue her passion work.

Michael Gianelli – Michael Gianelli is managing attorney at Gianelli Nielsen whose practice areas include estate planning, trusts, complex litigation, business and commercial law and mediation. Mike has been a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law with the California Board of Legal Specialization for over 25 years and has workshop training in mediation and served as a neutral on several successful mediations.

Michael attended the University of California, Irvine where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1973 and later attended the University of Pacific McGeorge School of Law where he attained his Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1976.

“The Board is pleased to have Khani Gustafson and Mike Gianelli join them in 2023,” said David Olson, Chairman of Stanislaus Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. “Both bring broad life experience,

Khani Gustafson Michael Gianelli

A Program of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Dawn Kelley City of Modesto Kemoyah Levi Warden’s Office Products

Cerina Otero Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office

Courtney Morse Center for Human Services

Melonie Albino Mocse Federal Credit Union

Andrew Ratto Ratto Bros.

Jason Poisson Jack and Buena Foundation

Linh Son Nguyen Modesto Irrigation District

Lin Touch Opportunity Stanislaus

Eric Wessendorf Atherton & Associates, LLP

Tami Davis Grimbleby Coleman CPAs

Trey Regalo Laboratory Corporation of America

Gabriela Fernandez Love Stanislaus County

Roy Grizzle Availability Professional Staffing

Jesse Franco Modesto Irrigation District

Sonia Serrano Studio V Pilates & Fitness

Benjamin Johnson Berliner Cohen LLP

Sonya Severo Stanislaus County

Samantha Jones Stanislaus Community Foundation

Kalani Souza City of Modesto Police Department

Laura Weaver Oak Valley Community Bank

Julie Orona Stanislaus County

Melissa Williams Modesto Irrigation District

A

of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Trish Christiansen CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Judy Boring SCOE

Kristin Mostowski (Co-chair) Community Hospice

Mandy Gonsalves E. & J. Gallo Winery

Kirstie Boyett Zacharias Chamber President American Leadership Forum

Chris Adams (Co-chair) City of Modesto Police Department

Melissa “Mo” Gascon Warden’s Office Products

Nate Benninger (Class Project Liaison) On Site Health & Safety

Tera Chumley (Day Chair Liaison) Stanislaus County

Incoming! Capitalizing On An Influx Of Visitors To Modesto

BY Kristin Galloway, Business Development Manager Visit Modesto

Let’s face it... relevance to a traveler is a matter of objectivity. Not all travelers are interested in the same things, events, dining establishments, or attractions. But I bet a thirty-thousand-foot overview of a prospective city to visit might have some facet that intrigues absolutely everyone in your core group of friends, family, or workmates.

The trick to attracting travelers is to have a variety of enticing offerings immediately available and accessible where potential visitors look for resources and references about their interests. Meeting customers where they are and where they tend to search is a solid strategy year-round. And with the Almond Blossom Cruise season (almondblossomcruise.com) upon us in midFebruary to mid-March, upwards of 100,000

visitors will be driving right through Modesto to see the sights and taste the flavors of California’s Central Valley. Why not start trying to get their attention for your benefit?

Now is the time to capitalize on the insurgence of traveler interest. There may be a huge opportunity for businesses to appeal to the travelers already headed into your backyard for the Almond Blossom Cruise. Think about strategies to make your operations and offering relevant to a segment of those travelers. This could be a great introduction to the congenial nature and charm of Modesto’s business community, leading to repeat customers. Objectively appeal to these incoming travelers and let your hospitality bean anchor which tethers them to recurring visits.

LOCAL NEWSPAPERS KEEP OUR COMMUNITIES INFORMED IN CHALLENGING TIMES.

Maximizing Social Media for your Hospitality business

By Kathryn Kim Ramos, Sisbro Innovation Online Marketing / Modesto, CA

As a hospitality company, it's important to stay at the forefront of marketing and customer engagement strategies. One way to do this is by leveraging the power of social media. In today's digital age, a strong online presence can make all the difference for your business and your ROI. Here are just a few ways that social media can help your hospitality business thrive.

1. Reach a Wide Audience

One of the main benefits of social media and Social ADs is the ability to reach a large and diverse audience. By creating profiles on popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, Ticktock you can easily connect with potential customers from all over the world.

This is especially useful for hospitality businesses, as travelers are often actively searching for new and exciting places to stay. By sharing photos, videos, and updates about your business on social media, you can showcase your offerings and attract new guests.

2. Enhance Customer Service

Social media is also a great way to provide excellent customer service to your guests. By monitoring your profiles and responding promptly to questions and concerns, you can show your guests that you value their business and are dedicated to their satisfaction. This can be especially important for guests who are far from home and may be unfamiliar with the area. By providing helpful information and assistance on social media, you can ensure that your guests have a positive experience at your business.

3. Generate Positive Reviews

Social media can also be a powerful tool for generating positive reviews and word-of-mouth marketing. When guests have a great experience at your business, they are more likely to share their thoughts on social media and recommend your business to their friends and followers. This can be especially valuable, as travelers often rely on reviews and recommendations from others when choosing a place to stay. By encouraging satisfied guests to share their experiences on social media, you can increase your business's visibility and reputation.

4. Stay Top-of-Mind

Finally, using social media can help you stay top-ofmind with potential guests. By regularly posting updates and engaging with your audience, you can keep your business at the forefront of people's minds and engage with them encouraging them to book a stay with you in the future. By staying active on social media, you can also show potential guests that your business is modern and up-to-date, which can be especially appealing to

Overall, social media is a vital tool for any hospitality business looking to connect with customers, enhance customer service, generate positive reviews, and stay top-of-mind. By creating and maintaining a strong online presence, you can increase your visibility, attract new guests, and ensure that your business stays competitive in today's fast-paced

For more information on managing your restaurant's online presence, Social Media Posting and Ads, Website Design, or Virtual Assistance, go to www. sisbroinnovation.com or call Sisbro Innovation at (800) 291-9102.

HOLIDAYS AT THE MISSION – REPORTING GOOD NEWS

By John Villines, Chief Operating Officer

The Modesto Gospel Mission ended the year in service to the local community, and providing needed relief to many in times of need.

In November, the Mission held its annual Thanksgiving Bundle-Up event where the public was invited to eat a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixin’s – turkey, potatoes and gravy, cranberries, green beans, dinner rolls, and pie! We then hand out warm winter clothes – new and gently-used coats and jackets, beanies, gloves, scarves, and socks. Most of these food and clothes donations were provided by individuals, churches, and businesses.

This event is normally attended by many men and women in our homeless population as well as low-income residents – including individuals and families who live locally in the “Airport Neighborhood.” This event took many volunteers, and so many individuals and families turned out, as well as local public servants Stanislaus County CEO Jody Hayes, Modesto City Manager Joe Lopez, Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen, Modesto City Council Members Tony Madrigal and Jenny Kenoyer, Modesto Chamber CEO Trish Christensen, and Hispanic Chamber CEO Johnny Garcia. This year’s event served over 1,200 men, women, and children, and an additional 500 turkey meals were served on the actual Thanksgiving holiday.

In December, the Mission conducted its longstanding tradition of serving poor and homeless men, women, and children for Christmas. Leading up to its main event, the Mission hosted “5 Days of Giving” where families registered online for a specified time slot during 5 weekdays in December to choose an unwrapped Christmas gift for each member of their family.

The gifts were donated by individuals and various businesses and churches such as Amazon, Assist International, Costco, and Shelter Cove Community Church. The time slots were filled in less than two days once registration went live! Over 5,000 gifts were given during these 5 days!

At the annual main event on December 23rd, the Mission served thousands of traditional Christmas ham meals and gifts. The Mission was aided by loyal families and individual volunteers, the Modesto Mayor and County Supervisors Brock Condit and Channce Condit, CHP officers, and church and business groups. All told, over 8,000 gifts were donated to needy men, women, and children in December alone due to the sacrificial generosity of our community! What a great way to honor the spirit of Christmas!

As we are embarking on the 75th year of the Modesto Gospel Mission, we gratefully acknowledge that we could not have provided services since 1948 without so many prayers, donations, volunteer hours, and financial gifts over the last 7+ decades. Thank You friends and neighbors! May God richly bless you all!

Redwood Family Center Celebrates 20 Years of Providing Hope Through Recovery for Thousands of Stanislaus County Women and their Children

Since 2003, the Redwood Family Center, managed by the nonprofit Valley Recovery Resources (VRR), has remained Stanislaus County's only provider of both substance abuse detoxification and treatment services and supported clean and sober housing to the community's most vulnerable— women and women with children.

Supporting women with children is significant because this segment rarely has access to substance abuse and longterm recovery programs that allow mothers to remain with their children while receiving treatment. According to VRR Executive Director Steve Berkowitz, some of the reasons for the disparity include the following:

• Women with alcohol and other drug problems often experience violence, are unemployed, and homeless, which creates roadblocks to receiving services

• Responsibilities toward taking care of children make it difficult to access needed services

• Alcohol and other drug problems are likely to have cooccurring mental health problems

• Issues and stigma exist surrounding women and substance abuse and dependence

Additionally, according to a 2013 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) report, another leading factor for women resisting treatment is the fear of leaving or having their children taken away. The Redwood Family Center alleviates this concern since— depending on the case—mothers can live with their children during and after treatment or until they become financially independent.

RFC "is a wonderful opportunity for a woman to come into a loving environment," said Ron Nydam, VRR board president. "Where they can live for a year, 18 months, and get their life back while staying or reuniting with their children."

"Scholarship" Fundraising Needed

Nydam further explained RFC's substance-abuse treatment and clean and sober living contracts with the county are limited to specific services and qualifying clients. Consequently, additional fundraising is necessary to "scholarship" those who don't qualify for government funding but still desire recovery and life transformation. "We also aim to help women before they hit rock bottom with a place to get off the streets or out of abusive home situations and into a supportive environment where they can learn to care for themselves and their kids properly while sustaining long-term recovery and independence."

RFC Quick Facts

• RFC is the only substance abuse treatment program offering detox services, substance abuse treatment (24 women's beds and 12 dependent children’s beds), longterm clean and sober housing (60 women's and children's beds), and graduate homes (12 to 15 families) in Stanislaus County.

• 32 staff members—all with sustained, long-term recovery.

• Over 2000 women and 3,500 children served since 2011.

• More than $2.8 million raised privately since 2011.

• RFC is an integral member of Stanislaus County's Continuum of Care, a program using an array of housing and services designed to prevent and end homelessness.

RFC 20th Anniversary Event – "Country for a Cause"

A 20th-anniversary event is slated for Saturday, March 11th, 2023, at Richard's Ranch barn in West Modesto. This is an excellent opportunity to hear testimonials from current RFC clients, staff, and program graduates about their recovery and life transformation. For ticket and sponsorship information, contact Carrie Cardoza Bordona at 209.581.2274 or carrie@gocardoza.com.

About RFC

RFC, founded in 2003, is a ministry of Valley Recovery Resources (VRR) working to create a community where women seeking recovery, and their families, have the opportunity and services necessary for a drug-free and productive future. The women entering RFC need a lifechanging experience. RFC partners with other agencies and organizations to make recovery cost-effective and to ensure services are not duplicated. The results are transformed lives and reunited families.

About VRR

Established in 2011, VRR, a 501c3, operates substance abuse and treatment services, long-term clean and sober living, and graduate homes for women and women with children. RFC is a critical component to the recovery process. VRR collaborates with groups and individuals committed to providing recovery resources to our community. Our partners include private individuals, corporations, faith-based communities, and government agencies.

Make your mark. Web Design

In today’s mobile world, it’s more important than ever for companies to have instant, mobile-friendly information available as easily as possible, or else people tend to move on to someone who does. Life moves too quickly to look for hard-to-find stuff.