Progress - December 2021

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 42 | ISSUE 12 | DECEMBER 2021

SHOP LOCAL WILDFIRE PUBLIC HOUSE OPERA MODESTO

We’ll Never Give You The Cold Shoulder

Happy Holidays There’s no better time than the holidays to extend cheer to our loyal customers and friends.

As the temperatures dip, the leaves drop, and snow dusts the mountaintops, families and friends gather to celebrate traditions. Good cheer and a sense of wonder is in the air. During this season we are especially grateful for the relationships we enjoy in the communities we have the pleasure of serving. From the entire Bank of Stockton family, we wish you the Happiest Holidays.

bankofstockton.com

IN MODESTO 1302 J St. & 4204 Dale Rd.

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.

DECEMBER 2021 | CONTENTS

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Garrett Ardis- Huff Construction Company Inc. Dennis Bettencourt- Blue Diamond Growers Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Kirstie Boyett, The State Theatre David Halvorson Jr.- American Chevrolet Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Brian McDermott, Team S.O.S Kymber Miller- Sysco Central California Inc. Eric Nielsen, Gianelli Nielsen Peggy O'Donnell, Mid-Valley Productions Jason Pineda, Freshpoint Inc. Bill Robinson, Principal Financial Group DeJeune Shelton- Modesto Junior College Madhu Singh, Bank of Stockton Jared Steinwert, F&M Bank John Villines- Modesto Gospel Mission

COMMUNITY 4 6 8 Opera Modesto

10

President & CEO

Trish Christensen Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org

Graphic Design: 209 Magazine Printer: 209 Magazine

Tuolumne River Update

12

209.634.9141 • hvanderveen@209magazine.com

Distribution: 209 Magazine

CALENDAR CENTRAL VALLEY HOUSING

ADVOCACY

11

OPPORTUNITY STANISLAUS

13

REDUCE AIR POLLUTION

20 21 22 24

209.634.9141

Advertising Sales:

25 27

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

CEO MESSAGE

RELATIONSHIPS

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org 209.634.9141 • www.209magazine.com

9

Leverage Google Analytics

Patricia Gillum Pat Gillum CPA

Wildfire Public House

17

Staff:

Administrative Assistant, Hope Gyorfi Administrative Assistant, Jolene Camarena Events Coordinator, Felicia Lopez Membership Coordinator, Sabrinna Gonzales Staff Accountant, Jaime Lastra

ANNIVERSARIES MILESTONES PRESIDENT’S CLUB NEW MEMBERS

EDUCATION HARVESTING SUCCESS UC MERCED MEDICAL BUILDING

SERVICE

28 30

MCHENRY MANSION DOCENTS SWIFTDOX

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in

this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Stan State Library

26

PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org • Progress@ModChamber.org

DECEMBER 2021

3

A Message From The President & CEO C.A.R.E.S FOR BUSINESS

By Trish Christensen

I

am often asked what the most significant focus is for our Chamber to best support business and our local economy. I always find this question interesting. I see the work and role of a chamber from a very broad perspective. I feel our vision platform sums this up perfectly. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce C.A.R.E.S. (Community - Advocacy – Relationship – Education – Service).

Our focus on Community comes to us quite simply.

We are citizens of our community, so we are naturally compelled to be good stewards. We regularly partner and collaborate with other community-based organizations (CBO’s) to help the greater Modesto area be a vibrant place to live, work, and play. We maintain programs such as our Women in Business Network, Rising Professionals Network, and Tech Connect sessions. These provide opportunities for individuals in a wide array of business and industry to learn, grow, find resources, mentor, and be mentored.

COMMUNITY

Our Advocacy efforts continue through our longstanding Economic Development Committee, Government Relations Council, and Stanislaus Green team. Each of these offering incredible opportunities to hear from professionals in each of these focus areas.

Our committees are in place to give individuals an opportunity to be engaged and proactively working to support business, industry, agriculture, and sustainability.

4

At our core we are a Relationships based organization.

We focus our energy on our new and existing members.

Our Ambassador Team volunteers enjoy the outreach they make with members. Our Welcome Team volunteers enjoy meeting and greeting members and attendees at events, ribbon cuttings, and Mix & Mingles.

We enjoy being a nexus for businesses, non-profits, governmental agencies, and creating a space for positive networking to exist.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

We serve Education in various ways through a wide network of collaborative partners. Our Business and Education committee’s focus is on building bridges between business, education, and educators. We know that by supporting the needs of education from preschool and elementary through trade and tech institutes, junior or community colleges, and university levels we are supporting our future workforce. We also know that if educators understand our business and industry needs, they can better prepare our future workforce.

The Chamber believes in providing Service to our members, our community, and our businesses. Our board members, our volunteers, and our staff make up a very active group. Many of us gives time and talent to multiple organizations. We also provide service to support our member and business community.

One example is our opportunity to green certify a business through the California Green Business Network – Stanislaus (CAGBN-Stan) platform. This is free to a business or industry of any size, member or not. By going through the process, we can help you reduce the cost of doing business through sustainability. By doing so we are also improving the quality of life and saving the natural resources of Stanislaus County.

As we head into the holidays, and begin to look forward to a new year, I hope we can reflect on the good that has transpired this past year, despite the challenges.

We anticipate many great things for 2022. I wish you many moments to be surrounded by the warmth and joy of family and those that matter most to you. From the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Team - Happy Holidays to all~ With warm regards, Trish

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

Modesto Area,economic regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, development, connectivity and business education.

Toour execute our adopted mission have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. access to leaders, economic connectivity and business education.

That To execute adopted mission we development, havewe developed an acronym that helps keep us focused.

That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.” acronym is “CARES: Community, Relationships, Education andkeep Service.”

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

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

At its heart the Modesto Chamber is a community of likeminded

The Chamber serves the education community by hosting the

business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy

annual State of Business and Education event, by fund-raising for local

and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live,

students at the Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon annual series, and

work and play. The Modesto Chamber is the go-to resource and

partnering with local schools and colleges to train and educate young

At its heart the Modesto Chamber is a community of likeminded

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. The Modesto Chamber is the go-to resource and

The Chamber serves the education community by hosting the

annual State of Business and Education event, by fund-raising for local

students at the Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon annual series, and partnering with local schools and colleges to train and educate young

facilitator of ideas and communication for nonprofits, governmental men and women, all in keeping with our pledge to help provide a ready facilitator of ideas and communication for nonprofits, governmental men and women, all in keeping with our pledge to help provide a ready

agencies, and community leaders.

More More than than just ajust business club,club, the the workforce the Chamber Chamber agencies, and community leaders. a business workforcetotoserve serve local local employers. employers. Additionally, Additionally, the Modesto Chamber strives to affect its environment for positive educates its members on practical solutions and best practices through Modesto Chamber strives to affect its environment for positive educates its members on practical solutions and best practices through transformation by supporting change agents in the community. its Progress Magazine articles, monthly Chamber University and Seeds transformation by supporting change agents in the community. its Progress Magazine articles, monthly Chamber University and Seeds ofof Success speaker monthlycommittee committee Success speakerseries, series,workshops workshops and and seminars, seminars, monthly meetings, and SCORE counseling. meetings, and SCORE counseling.

ADVOCACY ADVOCACY

SERVICE SERVICE

Chamber Staff, Board of Directors and many of our topical

Chamber Staff, Board of Directors and many of our topical

committees, such as Economic Development and Government

committees, such as Economic Development and Government

Relations, are engaged and proactively representing our members by

Relations, are engaged and proactively representing our members by

The Chamber believes in service to the community and to its

The Chamber believes in service to the community and to its members. The Chamber Board and staff are active on many nonprofit

addressing business initiatives, addressing issues in our community members. The Chamber Board and staff are active on many nonprofit and government committees, donating their business expertise, time

addressing issues in our community and business working toinitiatives, relieve theaddressing regulatory burdens businesses endure due

and working toand relieve regulatory The burdens businesses due as to local statethe governments.

Modesto Chamberendure gets results, to local shown and state Modestomore Chamber gets results, as by governments. recent victoriesThe in forming rational ADA legislation, shown by recent avictories in measure, forming electing more rational legislation, defeating no-growth businessADA friendly candidates, working alongside otherselecting to passbusiness Measure L, a candidates, local self-help defeating a no-growth measure, friendly measure, for our workingtransportation alongside others to and passchampioning Measure L,fora more local water self-help agribusiness, industry citizens. By working together, transportation measure, andand championing for more waterour formembers our are stronger together than they ever be on their own. agribusiness, industry and citizens.

Bycould working together, our members

are stronger together than they could ever be on their own.

RELATIONSHIPS

RELATIONSHIPS

The Modesto Chamber specializes in building relationships among business and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit

The Modesto Chamber in building relationships and specializes governmental agencies.

We hostamong monthly organizations, businessnetworking and serving the special nexusevents, to businesses, nonprofit events, as annual an annual trade show, and our long-running Gala. Membersagencies. also may serve committees or go organizations, and governmental We onhost monthly through the Leadership Modesto program wheretrade they will build longnetworking events, annual special events, an annual show, and term relationships with key leaders in the business world and or go our long-running Gala. Members also may serve on committees

andand government their resources. committees, The Chamberdonating also serves its business individualexpertise, members time by andhosting resources.

Thecuttings Chamber alsointroduce serves itsa individual members ribbon which new business to theby hosting ribbon cuttings introduce new business to the community, valuable and which cost effective (free) amarketing opportunities, community, costworkshops effective (free) marketing exposure valuable to social and media, and training for opportunities, our business partnersto andsocial their associates, and other free andtraining discounted exposure media, workshops and forresources. our business

partners and their associates, and other free and discounted resources.

C - Community

C - Community A - Advocacy

A - Advocacy

R - Relationships

R - Relationships E - Education

ES--Education Service S - Service

throughlocal the community.

Leadership Modesto program where they will build longterm relationships with key leaders in the business world and local community.

DECEMBER 2021

5

CHAMBER CALENDAR DECEMBER

JANUARY

1

7

AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING *In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

12

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Keith Boggs & David Leamon Stanislaus County Topic: Crows Landing Development

20

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Valley Improvement Projects *In person & Zoom 12:00 P.M. Register on website

20

TECH CONNECT

1

RISING PROFESSIONALS RISE AND SHINE WITH THE CEO’S This session's CEO panel Brad Ardis, Evan Porges, and Bob Dinsmore 8:00 A.M- 9:15 A.M. *Register on website ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Marian Kaanon, President/ CEO of Stanislaus Community Foundation Topic: SCF's Economic Development Initiatives Cecil Russell, Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum Topic: Status on Classic Car Museum Opening *Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M

3

AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING DARK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER *In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

21

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL

16

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM DARK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER *In person & Zoom 12:00 P.M.

26

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

16

TECH CONNECT DARK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER *In person & Zoom 2:00 P.M.

26

RISING PROFESSIONAL

17

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL DARK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER *In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

**The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is located at 1114 J St., Modesto *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.

20

COMMUNITY

**The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is located at 1114 J St., Modesto

6

22

WOMEN IN BUSINESS- DARK DARK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

27

CHRISTMAS DAY OBSERVED - OFFICE CLOSED

31

NEW YEAR’S OBSERVED - OFFICE CLOSED

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Valley Improvement Projects *In person & Zoom 12:00 P.M. Register on website

COMMUNITY DECEMBER 2021

7

Central Valley Housing

By Ben Balsbaugh / President PMZ Real Estate Modesto If you have fallen in love with a house, and your spouse hates it, just know it might be easier to find another spouse than another house. Maybe you have read something similar, and there was some truth to that earlier in the year. The real estate market has been on quite a ride for many years now.

Will it have a major correction soon? While corrections are healthy, there does not seem to be one on the horizon.

The increase in home prices over the past year is due to several factors. First and foremost, low interest rates and low inventory. We are also seeing more people working from home, and deciding they need more space. We are also seeing more millennials entering the home buying market.

Further, as fears of inflation increase, many investors are purchasing properties as a hard asset.

We have been in a crazy real estate market, and it seems to be in a bit of a transition here locally. A transition from a sellers’ market to more of a normal market. We are still seeing major inventory constraints. In a healthy real estate market, we have around five months of inventory. In other words, if no new listings came on the market, it would take five months to clear the inventory.

Today in Modesto, we have about a one-month supply.

Compare that to 2005, a booming real estate year, we had

five months’ supply. Compare that to 2007, we shot up to eighteen months supply. We have 1/5 the inventory we had in 2005. So, it feels like 2005, however it looks nothing like 2005 when you break down the numbers.

Goldman Sachs economists predict that home prices will grow another 16% by the end of 2022. Zillow is forecasting a 12% appreciation in U.S. home values. I expect home prices to continue to rise in 2022, although more modestly.

Until we see our inventory levels bump up, it’s going to be difficult for the market to have any sort of correction.

As we transition into a more normal market, I could see us reaching three months of inventory this coming year, which would be a great step in normalizing our current market.

If my prediction is somewhat accurate, it will definitely improve your chances of keeping your spouse and choosing a home that you both will enjoy.

Don’t wait in line, we value your time!

COMMUNITY

Walk into any BAC branch for “line-less” service with a smile or go straight to your accounts in seconds with Mobile and Online Banking. Anytime, Anywhere!

www.bankbac.com 8

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

1-877-226-5820

Leveraging Google Analytics to Learn About Your Customer

By Andres Mendez / Director of Marketing, Visit Modesto Often, we think about our website as a tool to communicate information about our organization without thinking about how we can leverage our website to learn more about our customers. When linking a website to Google Analytics businesses can view analytics and insights about the customer traffic on that site. Everything from gender, age, interest, geographic location, and even the device people use are available on Google Analytics.

The data that you can view on Google Analytics will help your team adjust and edit your website to increase the actual amount of time visitors spend on a specific web page. This allows you to edit pages more effectively and to help visitors see and learn more on your website.

Another data point in Google Analytics are rankings of top performing web pages. This lets you understand what your customer is interested most when it comes to topics on your website. Do they care about charity? Do they like shopping for swag? Do they want to stay at a specific hotel? Do they want to dine out?

As you take your journey in ‘Getting Your Business Mobile’ you will find that Google Analytics is a catalyst to taking your website, and your digital marketing strategy, to the next level.

Next month I will break down pixels, tiny snippets of code, and how you can utilize them to re-target the traffic on your website.

Please reach out to me, andres@ visitmodesto.com, with any questions, comments, and or for tips.

COMMUNITY

All this data is great for building reports, but the real power comes in when using this data to learn about and reach your target demographic through digital marketing strategies. The more you learn about who is visiting your site the more you can target that specific type of customer as well as tailor messaging that resonates with them.

DECEMBER 2021

9

Opera Modesto Keeps the Music Going Opera Modesto has remained extremely active through the many pandemic months, performing outdoor concerts, continuing with its youth training programs, and even making a world premiere youth opera movie, “The Race,” which was based on five Aesop’s Fables and has won more than 70 awards in international film festivals. The film, which premiered at The State Theatre on April 8, 2020, is being prepared for a long life as a multi-lingual literacy tool, with subtitles in English and 19 other languages, plus a fantastic American Sign Language version, all accompanied by a multilingual graphic novel.

Opera Modesto’s FESTIVAL @ HOME, eight months of on demand streaming locally produced content included three brand new professional concerts. Two of these garnered national and international attention and were chosen by Opera America as two of the outstanding productions nationwide in 2020-21.

The Summer Opera Institute for teens, a conservatory level training program continued in both 2020 and 2021, despite the challenges of the pandemic. In 2020, the final concert was filmed outdoors on a 50’ wide green screen, with exciting results.

COMMUNITY

Finally, in October, 2021, Opera Modesto was able to return to live performance, with Mozart’s “Magic Flute,” performed with large, enthusiastic audiences at the Gallo Center for the Arts! The production featured a CGI animated dragon video by Christopher Flores and beautiful backdrop projections by artist Shirlee Rudel, as well as international level soloists and dancers from Central West Ballet.

Photo Credit: David Schroeder 10

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

O p e r a Modesto’s nationally unique Story Into Song L i t e ra c y Initiative will return to The State Theatre with a bi-lingual (Spanglish & Spanish) double bill of one act premiere operas: “Bless Me, Ultima” and “Dulcinea” (based on Don Quixote).

Public performances will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 8 and Jan. 9. Tickets will be available at www.TheState.org.

These will be followed by “Readers” performances for 8th grade – Adult students at 1 p.m. Jan. 11 and 12. Contact Opera Modesto for more information.

Photo from the filming of THE RACE. Photo Credit David Schroeder

Opportunity Stanislaus – Next Level Together Author: David White, Chief Executive Officer Opportunity Stanislaus & Tyler Richardson, Chief Business Services Officer - Opportunity Stanislaus Executive Director - VOLT Institute

Opportunity Stanislaus – Next Level Together campaign, is the right focus for Opportunity Stanislaus for the next five years. In this new program, our foundational pillars include the following: Opportunity Stanislaus will continue to grow VOLT Institute as a primary employee training asset in our region. Opportunity Stanislaus will attract new high-paying jobs and cutting-edge companies that will come here as part of our economic vitality initiative.

We commit to support new cultural, educational, and recreational assets which will help us attract and retain talent.

We will continue to focus on local business, especially helping small businesses scale and succeed! We have added a new focus on supporting key policy proposals that will help our communities, county and region grow.

Opportunity Stanislaus will continue to address the talent development needs of our local businesses. We pledge to work with both the public and private sectors of this great region to improve our economy and quality of life. We will do that inclusively, making sure that nobody is left behind. We are after all “Opportunity Stanislaus” and that means opportunity for all.

The timing couldn’t be better! A global pandemic reinforced the importance of working together. As an organization, we are ready to step forward to make an even bigger difference in achieving greater economic vitality for all.

ADVOCACY

Opportunity Stanislaus is pleased to introduce a new five-year program of work that will help us get to the next level together with our partners and friends. We are ready to take the next step to work with key stakeholders in our region to boost the quality of life and make Stanislaus County and the Northern San Joaquin Valley region a place where people want to live and raise their families.

DECEMBER 2021

11

Tuolumne River Voluntary Agreement Update Article Credit: MID & TID Five years ago, our communities rallied and pleaded for a change in how the State approached updating its Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Plan, which demanded between 30% and 50% unimpaired flow from the Tuolumne River for the alleged benefit of fish. When the State Water Board ultimately adopted Phase 1 of its plan in December 2018 they left open an opportunity to continue work to advance our Tuolumne River Voluntary Agreement as an alternative to the unimpaired flows plan.

ADVOCACY

Since that time, Modesto Irrigation District (MID) and Turlock Irrigation District (TID) have actively participated in voluntary agreement negotiations and worked collaboratively with State officials, various agencies and an array of stakeholders including other public water agencies and environmental conservation groups to advance a package of voluntary agreements as an alternative for the State Water Boards’ Bay-Delta unimpaired flows plan. MID and TID, with our partner San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, stood ready to immediately provide increased river flows strategically managed to meet the biological cues of the fishery and invest $132 million of our own money in habitat restoration.

12

In October 2021, MID and TID received an unexpected and disappointing letter from the State informing us that they are walking away from the Tuolumne River Voluntary Agreement process and instead are moving forward with implementation of their flawed Phase 1 Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Plan. The Districts have negotiated in good faith for years and, by walking away, the State has rejected the collaborative process we’ve built.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

MID and TID have repeatedly expressed our commitment to continue voluntary agreement discussions and to implement our comprehensive, science-based plan to improve the ecology of the Tuolumne River. The Districts have invested heavily in studying and truly understanding the Tuolumne River, the species and industries that depend on it and developing a realistic and sustainable voluntary agreement.

We believe that a voluntary agreement is the only resolution that will provide water supply certainty for our region.

Parallel to the voluntary agreement discussions, MID and TID filed lawsuits against the State Water Resources Control Board's Bay-Delta Plan and we continue to move forward in those processes.

We will continue to pursue every avenue to reach an agreement that benefits all – the Tuolumne River, our communities and our customers.

Clean Air Yard Care and Winter Home Heating

By Anthony Presto, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District The San Joaquin Valley faces many air quality challenges, failing to meet federal air quality standards for PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) and ground-level ozone. Valley businesses are also subject to the most stringent air pollution control rules in the nation.

While there are many sources of air pollution in the Valley, pollution from yard care equipment and residential wood burning have a direct impact on neighborhoods.

Small engines on gas-powered yard care equipment have no or very limited emission controls and create significant levels of air pollution. One gas-powered lawn mower can pollute as much as 12 late-model cars.

For every gas-powered lawn or garden tool, there is an electric or manual alternative that works just as well.

There are also incentives for professional landscapers to trade out all their gas and diesel-powered yard care equipment for zero-emission electric alternatives. Find out about the District’s Commercial Clean Green Yard Machines Incentive Program here: https://www.valleyair.org/grants/ cgym-commercial.htm.

In addition, the Valley Air District suggests using a rake or broom instead of a blower. Leaf blowers create particulate matter in the form of dust and can be a nuisance to your neighbors.

Residential wood burning is the largest single source of particulate matter pollution in the Valley during winter months. For this reason, the District’s residential wood smoke reduction program imposes restrictions on the use of fireplaces, wood stoves, firepits and chimeneas.

The District recommends using other methods to heat your home unless wood burning is your sole source of heat. For full details on the District’s Residential Wood Smoke Reduction Program, visit www. valleyair.org/rule4901.

The District also offers incentives for Valley residents to upgrade from wood burning devices to natural gas. Get all the information on the Burn Cleaner Incentive program here: www.valleyair. org/burncleaner.

Get additional information on the many other grant and incentive programs available to Valley residents, businesses, public agencies and agricultural operators at: www.valleyair.org/grants.

DECEMBER 2021

ADVOCACY

The District’s Clean Green Yard Machines yard care incentive program provides significant rebates on electric lawn mowers, trimmers, edgers, pole saws and chain saws.

For details on these incentives visit www.valleyair.org/cgym.

13

S U P P O R T

L O C A L

SHOP LOCAL S H O P S M A L L B U S I N E S S E S T H I S H O L I D A Y S E A S O N !

SPA DAY GIFT IDEAS RENEE'S DAY SPA & SALON 1245 MCHENRY AVENUE MODESTO,CA,95350 (209) 341-0551 WWW.RENEESDAYSPA.COM ERIN MILAN SALON & SPA (209) 857-8097 WWW.ERINMILAN.COM 1150 - 9TH STREET SUITE A, MODESTO CA, 95354 NT NAIL SPA (209) 604-5735 WWW.NTNAILSPA.COM 3200 SISK ROAD SUITE J MODESTO, CA,95356

FISCALINI CHEESE COMPANY 7206 KIERNAN AVENUE MODESTO,CA,95358 (209) 545-5495 WWW.FISCALINICHEESE.COM

RENEE'S DAY SPA & SALON 1245 MCHENRY AVENUE MODESTO,CA,95350 (209) 341-0551 WWW.RENEESDAYSPA.COM

GIFT BASKET IDEAS HILMAR CHEESE COMPANY VISITOR CENTER 9001 N. LANDER AVENUE HILMAR,CA,95324 (209) 656-1196 WWW.HILMARCHEESE.COM FISHER NUT COMPANY 137 N. HART ROAD MODESTO,CA,95358 (209) 527-0108 WWW.FISHERNUT.COM CLASSIC WINE VINEGAR COMPANY, INC. 4110 BREW MASTER DRIVE CERES,CA,95307 (209) 538-7600 WWW.CLASSICWINEVINEGAR.C OM STEWART AND JASPER ORCHARDS MODESTO RETAIL STORE1700 MCHENRY AVE, SUITE 58, MODESTO, CA 95350(209) 577-6887 SCIABICA FAMILY OLIVE OIL 2150 YOSEMITE BLVDMODESTO, CA 95354 WWW.SUNSHINEINABOTTLE.COM

RELATIONSHIPS

HART FLORAL, INC. (209) 524-1401 WWW.HARTFLORAL.COM 1201 MCHENRY AVENUE MODESTO,CA,95350

14

SUPPORT THE LOCAL BUSINESSES WHO SUPPORT THE AREA WHERE WE LIVE,WORK AND PLAY.

STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES.....

FRESH IDEAS FLOWER CO. (209) 572-0287 1302 9TH STREET MODESTO,CA,95354 ROSE BOUQUET (209) 451-2292 WWW.RBFLORAL.COM 931 10TH ST,MODESTO,CA,95354

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

G R E A T A T T R A C T I O N I D E A S

YOSEMITE LANES 2301 YOSEMITE BLVD MODESTO,CA,95354

(209) 524-9161

WWW.YOSEMITELANES.COM

BOOMERS MODESTO 4215 BANGS AVENUE MODESTO,CA,95356 (209) 545-5248 WWW.BOOMERSPARKS.COM

GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1000 I STREET MODESTO,CA,95354 (209) 338-2100 WWW.GALLOARTS.ORG MODESTO NUTS PRO BASEBALL CLUB 601 NEECE DR, MODESTO, CA 95351 (209) 572-4487 WWW.MILB.COM/MODESTO.COM

RETAIL THERAPY INTRINSIC ELEMENTS BOUTIQUE & GIFTS (209) 409-8510 1214 J STREET MODEST,CA,95354 WWW.INTRINSICELEMENTS.COM CICCARELLI JEWELERS 3200 SISK ROAD,SUITE C MODESTO, CA 95356 WWW.CICCARELLIJEWELERS.COM

VINTAGE FAIRE MALL/MACERICH COMPANY (209) 408-1850

WWW.SHOPVINTAGEFAIREMALL.COM

3401 DALE ROAD, SUITE 483 MODESTO,CA,95356

THE STATE THEATRE 307 J ST, MODESTO, CA,95354 (209) 527-4697 WWW.THESTATE.ORG QUANTUM ESCAPES 1501 COFFEE ROAD MODESTO,CA,95355 (209) 248-7084 WWW.QUANTUMESCAPES.COM

RED WING SHOE STORE (209) 529-0447 WWW.REDWINGSHOE.COM 2221 MCHENRY AVENUE, SUITE I MODESTO,CA,95350

STOCKTON HEAT 248 W. FREMONT STREET STOCKTON, CA, 95203 WWW.STOCKTONHEAT.COM

STAY ACTIVE YOURS AND MINE SPORTS 416 N. 9TH STREET, SUITE F MODESTO,CA,95350 (209) 527-1519

WWW.YOURSANDMINESPORTS.COM

DECEMBER 2021

RELATIONSHIPS

CENTRAL WEST BALLET 5039 PENTECOST DRIVE MODESTO, CA, 95356 WWW.CWBALLET.ORG

15

RELATIONSHIPS 16

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Wildfire heats up local dining scene Photos and Story By VIRGINIA STILL The fire pits atop Wildfire Public House not only heat up the nights in Modesto, they are an indication of environment that awaits visitors to this eatery.

Owner John Ismail wanted to create something a little bit different for people with this restaurant that would be “a final destination” where people can “come in and feel comfortable.”

“We wanted to create a very warm, inviting environment with more of a big city feel that I think we were lacking around here,” stated Ismail. “We kind of went out on a limb as far as our food and our menu goes. We worked almost eight to nine months on our menu with a lot of different chefs and celebrity chefs.”

Some guest favorites from the appetizer menu are the Asparagus Cigars, wonton wrapped stuffed asparagus with a tarragon cream cheese, and lemon pepper; the Ahi Tuna Tower that is sashimi grade tuna marinated with ginger soy vinaigrette, fresh tomatoes, avocado, wasabi cream and fried wonton skins; Drunken Mussels with chorizo, fresh garlic, shallots, stout broth and grilled baguettes; Edamame tossed in a roasted garlic onion sauce; and Lamb Lollipops that are grilled with chimichurri pesto.

NOVEMBER 2021

RELATIONSHIPS

Located at 1533 Oakdale Rd. in Modesto, Wildfire Public House features a “Nuevo California fusion” type of cuisine, according to Ismail, with a creative menu that is filled with a variety of dishes.

17

Photos By VIRGINIA STILL The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and on Saturday and Sundays they offer an a la carte brunch with items like the Wildfire Pancakes, Chicken ‘n Waffles and Avocado Toast. They offer lunch specials like the two for $12 Monday through Friday menu that features soups, sandwiches, salads and pastas.

On the dinner menu some of the popular items are the Filet Mignon with a wild mushroom demi-glace, the Roasted Garlic New York Steak, the grilled Atlantic Salmon, and the Rack of Lamb served up with rosemary baby potatoes, chimichurri pesto, and asparagus.

The massive bar has over 20 beers on tap, wine options, and custom cocktails made with top shelf alcohol like the It’s Lit Margarita that is truly on fire and made with Casamigos Blanco tequila infused with jalapenos that will light your mouth on fire.

RELATIONSHIPS

Ismail started off as a bus boy in a restaurant many years ago and the business became his passion. He has been in the industry for two decades and Wildfire is his 15th restaurant.

The name was inspired by the fact that he wanted to create a warm environment, hence the fire elements on the interior and exterior of the restaurant.

18

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Photos By MARIAM POURMAND Although the interior fire elements are not real, the water vapor with red L.E.D. lighting gives a realistic warm glow.

“Our menu is always evolving based on popular trends in the food industry,” explained Ismail.

There is a fire room that can hold about 40 guests for parties, meetings, or any private event. The patio can host 50-plus people and they also offer catering for events.

RELATIONSHIPS

“We are here to make sure that every guest is taken care of like they are our own family,” said Assistant General Manager Michael Youkana. “We go the extra mile not only with the food but with our service as well. I think that we really go above and beyond to take care of our guests and make them feel like they are at home.”

NOVEMBER 2021

19

December Anniversaries

We Celebrate your Loyalty

RELATIONSHIPS

CURTIS LEGAL GROUP AMERICAN RECYCLING, LLC STANISLAUS COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION CHILDREN'S CRISIS CENTER STRUCK INSURANCE SERVICES INC. AGSAFE ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR THE COOPER COMPANY AMTRAK SAN JOAQUIN (SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY) ALPINE PROTECTIVE SOLUTIONS GRAFFITI USA CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM

20

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Congratulations TO THIS MONTH'S MILESTONE MEMBERSHIPS

65 + years

5 + years

CURTIS LEGAL GROUP

MODESTO MOBILITY CENTER, INC. CENTERRA CAPITAL SECURITY PUBLIC STORAGE – WOODLAND MODESTO SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB AGSAFE ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR BATTERIES PLUS BULBS UNIVERSAL SERVICE RECYCLING TRIPLE R CLASSIC CATERING CO., DBA TAILGATERS BELFOR PROPERTY RESTORATION THE PARK AT MODESTO THE COOPER COMPANY AMTRAK SAN JOAQUIN (SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY) MORGAN STANLEY - GABRIEL VASQUEZ, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

AMERICAN RECYCLING, LLC ALLIED CONCRETE & SUPPLY CO., INC.

30 + years GALLAGHER GATEWOOD, A PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANCY CORPORATION HENNINGS BROS. DRILLING CO., INC. IT SOLUTIONS|CURRIE STANISLAUS COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION J.M. EQUIPMENT CO., INC.

15 + years UMASS GLOBAL BORTON PETRINI, LLP STANISLAUS COUNTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICE TURLOCK IRRIGATION DISTRICT CHILDREN'S CRISIS CENTER HERUM\CRABTREE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, MERCED TRI COUNTIES BANK NIRVANA DRUG & ALCOHOL INSTITUTE STRUCK INSURANCE SERVICES INC.

1 + years ACCESS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT STANISLAUS SENIOR FOUNDATION WHEELS FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC DBA LOANMART RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT MODESTO NORTH MCHENRY MANSION FOUNDATION MODESTO MACHINE WORKS ROGER SHANKS CONSULTING ENTEKRA LLC PIZZERIA HALT FRESHPOINT BLUE DIAMOND GROWERS PINNACLE HEALTH CENTER ALPINE PROTECTIVE SOLUTIONS GRAFFITI USA CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM

DECEMBER 2021

RELATIONSHIPS

50 + years

21

RELATIONSHIPS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

22

ELITE

Care One Home Health and Hospice, Inc.

Mister Car Wash - Hatch Road

Seven-Up Bottling Co. of Modesto/Varni

E & J Gallo Winery

Central Valley Automotive

Mister Car Wash - Main

Brothers Corporation

Kaiser Permanente

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

Mister Car Wash - McHenry (3520)

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Central Valley Nissan

Mister Car Wash - McHenry (448)

KEYSTONE

Stanislaus Food Products Co.

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Mister Car Wash - Oakdale Road

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Mister Car Wash - Prescott Road

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

Clark Pest Control,Enthusiast

Mocse Credit Union - Coffee Road

International Company

COIT Services Inc.

Mocse Credit Union - J Street

Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC

Collins Electrical

Modesto Toyota

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Comcast

Nine3One

The Century

Frito-Lay Co., Inc.

Del Monte Plant #1

NT Nail Spa

The Farmacy

Pacific Southwest Container, Inc.

English Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation

Oak Valley Community Bank - I Street

The Modesto Bee

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Hospital

Oak Valley Community Bank - McHenry

TSM Insurance & Financial Services

Walmart

Exceed GPR & Locating, LLC

Oak Valley Community Bank - Oakdale

Turlock Irrigation District

F&M Bank - Carpenter Road

O'Brien's Market - Dale Road

Union Bank

VISIONARY

F&M Bank - Dale Road

O'Brien's Market - Oakdale

US Bank - McHenry

Crystal Creamery

F&M Bank - McHenry

O'Brien's Market - Riverbank

Doubletree by Hilton Modesto

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Opportunity Stanislaus

EMOE, Division of Parker Hannifin Corp.

Food Maxx

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Fiscalini Cheese Company

FreshPoint

Panelized Structures Inc.

IHeart Media

Galletto Ristorante

Pepsi Bottling Group

Modesto Irrigation District

Gianelli Nielsen

PMZ Real Estate

Valley Children's Healthcare - Madera

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Gilton Solid Waste Mgmt, Inc.

Residence Inn by Marriott Modesto North

Valley Children's Healthcare - McHenry

Sutter Health Valley Area

Golden Valley Health Centers - 6th St.

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Valley First Credit Union

Sysco Central California Inc.

Golden Valley Health Centers - Florida

Rose Bouquet

Valley First Credit Union - Dale Road

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Stifel Investment Services Storer Coachways Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

US Bank - Modesto Main US Bank - Tully Road US Bank - Turlock Valley BMW

Avenue

San Joaquin Valley College

Valley First Credit Union - J Street

ENTHUSIAST

Golden Valley Health Centers - Las Vegas St.

Save Mart Supermarkets - Claribel Road

Valley First Credit Union -Administrative Offices

Alpine Protective Solutions

Golden Valley Health Centers - Scenic

Save Mart Supermarkets - Corp Office

Valley Lexus

American Chevrolet

Golden Valley Health Centers - Tully

Save Mart Supermarkets - F Street

American Medical Response

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Save Mart Supermarkets - Goodwin Drive

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Grover Landscape Services, Inc."

Save Mart Supermarkets - Oakdale Road

Audi Modesto

Infiniti of Modesto

(2601)

Bank of Stockton - Dale Road

International Paper Co.

Save Mart Supermarkets - Oakdale Road

Bank of Stockton - Modesto Main Branch

JS West & Companies

9801)

Agency - Modesto

Blue Diamond Growers - Salida

Lewis Capital Advisors

Save Mart Supermarkets - Pelandale Road

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance

Blue Diamond Growers - Turlock

Maxx Value Foods

Save Mart Supermarkets - Standiford Ave

Agency - Turlock

California State University, Stanislaus

Mister Car Wash - Dale Road

Save Mart Supermarkets - Whtimore Ave

Yosemite Foods Inc.

Vintage Faire Mall/Macerich Company Warden's Office Products Center Wells Fargo Bank Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance

CONTACT THE CHAMBER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PRESIDENT'S CLUB LEVEL BENEFITS

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

DECEMBER 2021

23

RELATIONSHIPS EDUCATION

NEW MEMBERS Lift-A-Hand Care Agency

By Rachell LeViege

Rachell LeViege has been a local resident of the Stanislaus County since 2002. Rachell has over 20 plus years in the home care industry. Her mission is to enrich lives and assist the residents of California with compassion, respect, dignity, and sincerity.

During Covid-19 Rachell began to follow her passion and open Lift-A-Hand Home Care Agency.

Lift-A-Hand Home Care Agency provides non-medical in-home care for young or old, our care professionals are always ready to render top-notch services for you.

With the aim of enhancing your quality of life and maximizing your independence at home, we’ll make sure to ask your input, as well as your family members and health care providers.

We observe and practice the values of love, independence, family-like and eamwork. With LiftA-Hand, you can receive all that with the upmost sincerity and respect.

Enlist our services today, and we’ll welcome you with open arms and happy hearts.

GSDSolutions Finding skilled tech support with a personal touch is not only uncommon but can also seem impossible.

That is why what GSDSolutions offers is so unique.

They combine integrity with a wide knowledge base and years of experience to provide secure tech solutions without compromising the interpersonal component.

In a world increasingly driven by algorithms, artificial intelligence, and outsourcing, having sound and secure tech options with real people on a local level has never been more refreshing. GSDSolutions is quickly becoming one of the Central Valley’s leaders in technology solutions and support because of prioritizing client needs while offering competent solutions.

RELATIONSHIPS

GSDSolutions offers a diverse menu of services including, but not limited to: Managed IT Services, Data Security Services, and Virtual Event Management. As the Covid-19 pandemic subsides, they are also expanding to offer safe and effective in-person Event Management Support.

24

Their Managed IT Services division focuses on plans that customize client-needs, enabling them to provide support from real people that understand real problems.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

The tech company was founded in 2015 and cofounders Scott Davison and Danny Cota rebranded creating “GSDSolutions” in 2018.

They were nominated for Best of 209 Computer Support in 2021.

The tech company has diverse interests in working with a variety of industries, including agriculture, non-profits, hospitality, school districts, private equity, and venture capital.

Explore their website at GSDSolutions.io to read more about their offerings and tech tips offered on their regularly updated blog.

Contact GSDSolutions via email getstuffdone@GSDSolutions.io or call (650)282-7695 to talk with a live body offering real and secure solutions.

EDUCATION DECEMBER 2021

25

Fundraising Campaign Provides Opportunities to Name Spaces, Commemorative Donor Wall A committed group of Stanislaus State alumni, community leaders and supporters have come together to launch a fundraising campaign in support of one of the University’s most prominent and vital hubs of learning: the newly renovated J. Burton Vasché Library.

Turlock residents John and Jeani Ferrari and Stan State alumna Marlene Stante (’72) are co-chairing the fundraising initiative, which is aptly called “The Next Chapter.”

The fundraising campaign, which officially launched on National Philanthropy Day and continues through May 1, 2022.

Along with the Ferraris and Stante, The Next Chapter committee includes 10 others who will work alongside Vice President of University Advancement Michele Lahti and University Library Dean Ron Rodriguez.

The community-based initiative will offer participants a chance to raise money for the University Library through space naming opportunities and a commemorative wall campaign.

EDUCATION

“Our enthusiasm for community-based fundraising coupled with our love of libraries called us to lead this campaign for the University,” the Ferraris said in a joint statement. “On behalf of our dedicated committee, we invite you to learn more about how the University’s newly renovated Library is changing the student experience and preparing graduates and scholars for the future.”

26

Through the campaign, donors can secure an opportunity to name one of 35 spaces within the Library. The named spaces, which include study rooms, computer commons, collaborative spaces, a community event hall and more, range from $10,000 to $150,000. University Advancement is offering donors an option to develop a pledge schedule that will allow them to pay the gift over five or 10 years — depending on the amount — instead of as a lump sum.

In addition to the named spaces, the campaign also includes a commemorative donor wall that offers permanent naming recognition for all gifts of $100 and above.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Gifts directed toward The Next Chapter Library Campaign Fund for Sustainability and Innovation will be used to support and sustain technology, innovation and formative guest experiences at the University Library both now and in the future.

“Stanislaus State is truly excited and grateful for the work our dedicated alumni, community leaders and University friends are doing in support of the Library,” said President Ellen Junn. “Along with our students, the University Library is the heart of our institution. Support for the Library will help it continue to thrive as a vibrant hub of learning, discovery and innovation.”

During the past three months, the Library and University Advancement have worked alongside The Next Chapter committee members to develop a capital campaign designed to raise support for sustaining and technologically strengthening the Library.

“As an alumna of Stanislaus State and now as a director on the Foundation Board, I am honored and excited to co-chair The Next Chapter,” said alumna Stante. “This fundraising campaign demonstrates a commitment to sustaining an innovative Library for current and future students at Stan State.”

For questions regarding The Next Chapter campaign, please contact University Advancement at 209-6673131 or email giving@csustan.edu.

State Funding to Support UC Merced Medical Education Building

By Jim Chiavelli / UC MERCED UC Merced will be getting state funding to support the building of the university’s new medical education building.

“It’s a milestone day. When good people come together, we get things done,” Costa said.

The Health, Behavioral Sciences and Medical Education Building will support a B.S.-to-M.D. joint degree program with UCSF-Fresno, starting in 2023, along with public health and psychological sciences faculty and students.

The funding mechanism will see the state government back a bond sale by the University of California. Annual bond payments have been built into the long-term state budget by the Department of Finance. This funding will be above and above state funding for the University of California system.

Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz, introducing the governor, said the financial support would be significant not simply to UC Merced but the San Joaquin Valley.

“Medical education has been part of the plan for UC Merced since before we opened our doors to undergraduates in 2005,” said Muñoz. “This was driven in large part by the critical lack of health care professionals in the Central Valley, a problem that has only gotten worse.

“The historical significance of this future facility to our campus and our region cannot be overstated,” he said.

If you’re not buying crop insurance, you don’t know Jack Farmers and ranchers can now purchase crop insurance for protect themselves against the loss of crops due to natural disasters or the loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural commodities.

Purchasing crop insurance will reduce your exposure to a variety of risks and bring you piece of mind. If you want to learn more about the programs that are available and how you can benefit, you need to know Jack.

MEET JACK Jack Roudebush is a leading crop insurance expert. His combination of industry knowledge and insurance company insight makes him uniquely qualified to help you navigate the intricacies of these programs. Call Jack today to learn how you can minumize your risk and protect your bottom line.

Assemblyman Adam Gray, who worked with the Newsom administration to secure the funding, said it took a collaborative effort bring this together.

“It is not only about investing in the building. It’s about investing in our community,” he said. “All of us working together made this happen.”

Elected officials who also took part in today’s event included State Sen. Anna Caballero and U.S. Congressman Jim Costa.

“There’s never been a more precise time of the need for resources in the Valley than in a middle of a pandemic. Thank you to the state for its contribution,” Caballero said.

Direct: 209.550.3710 • Mobile: 209.483.0650 jroudebush@capax.com Lic#0B67204

Business Insurance | Group Health | Workers Comp | Home and Auto

capax.com

EDUCATION

“We hope that students stay in the Valley and serve the people who made their education possible. To develop the talent, it takes time. But this is the beginning,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said during a visit to the campus.

1.800.94CAPAX • 209.526.3110 Giddings, Corby, Hynes Lic# 0144783

DECEMBER 2021

27

McHenry Mansion New Docent Orientation The McHenry Mansion will hold a new docent orientation and training at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 20, 2022 in the McHenry Mansion basement at 906 15th St., Modesto.

This historic 1883 house is located has been open to the public as a tourist destination since 1983. Family-friendly tours of the Mansion are offered free of charge.

Starting Jan. 26 new docent training classes are scheduled every Wed. from 9:30-11:30am for eight weeks.

Both a class materials fee of $35 and McHenry Foundation membership which starts at $45 are required.

Class highlights: · Train in local history and culture · Support a local landmark - the "Jewel" of Modesto · Educate visitors from around the globe on local history · Attend social events · Annual trip to historical homes · Flexible hours - docents choose when to work · Use your skills to enhance the Mansion experience For more information contact Brenna at 209-535-5642; via email brajewich@yahoo.com; the McHenry Mansion Gift Shop at 209-549-0426; visit mchenrymansion.org; or mail your interest to the McHenry Mansion Gift Shop, attn. Brenna, 924 15th St. Modesto, CA 95354.

is now

SERVICE

2 0 9 M U LT I M E D I A . C O M

28

Your local news source.

Now locally-owned.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Valley Recovery Resources: Providing a Supportive Environment

By Carrie Cardoza Bordona / Cardoza & Associates, Inc. Valley Recovery Resources, Redwood Family Center is a nonprofit organization that operates a licensed, 12-bed substance use disorder treatment and detox facility, long-term clean and sober housing for approximately 100 women and their children through its two Modestobased Redwood Family Centers, and two Graduate Homes, which house up to 12 families.

For nearly 20 years, Redwood Family Center has served as a critical resource where Stanislaus County homeless women seeking substance abuse treatment, and their children, have the opportunity and services required for a sustainable recovery and productive future.

The Redwood Family Center provides a critical component to the recovery process — a safe, supportive, and clean and sober living environment where women and women with children continue working on their respective recovery goals for the time it takes to achieve them. Program graduates have the option to transition into one of Redwood Family Center’s residential graduate homes while working to obtain independent housing, employment, or further their education.

Redwood Family Center partners with other Stanislaus County government, private and nonprofit organizations, and the faith-based community to ensure residents receive the appropriate substance abuse, mental health, social services, domestic violence services, parenting services, and case management services. For more information, call our office at (209) 550-7352 or visit www.valleyrecoveryresources.com.

Your Favorite Magazine now...

ER/JAN

UARY

2019

- ISSU

E 30 -

NY Fas E BRUNhion MID CH TO

NIGH T CERES CENT ENNIA Celebr L

ation

FEBRUA

RY/MA

L

RCH 201

MACodi’s own K

ZIE FREEEND

9 - ISSU

$4.95US

Cover

-84P.i

ndd

PIFF

E 31 -

$4.95

Miss C aliforn ia

per year

THE M AG DRAG ON IC

1

Sno y Stopw s $4.95US

11/26/

2018

Cover P h C oto

9:30:2

1 AM

WIN ontest NER TOAS to th T e

Cover

-84P.i

ndd

1

18

Just $

$4.95

IRISH 1/21/2

019 12:15:

52 PM

visit 209magazine.com and click the

SUBSCRIBE to have 209 Magazine delivered to your door!

WE’ VE GOT THE 209 COVERED.

SERVICE

DECEMB

DECEMBER 2021

29

SERVICE 30

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

SERVICE

TAKE A LOOK BACK WITH US AT 2021

DECEMBER 2021

31

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER. At Kaiser Permanente, we don’t see health as an industry. We see it as a cause. And one that we very much believe in. During this extraordinary time we are especially thankful to the heroism of our frontline workers. And, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to all of our outstanding care teams and individuals who deliver on the Kaiser Permanente mission each day to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We are here to help you thrive. Learn more at kp.org.

32