progress Modesto Chamber of Commerce
May 2010 Vol. 31 Issue 5 Modchamber.org
Getting Married is Big Business Leadership Cover Photo by Studio Warner
Work In Progress
Ribbon Cuttings Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
1
David Boring
Julie Orona
Creative Director / President
Art Director / Vice President
Harold Avila
Donna Barker
Courtney Considine
Warren Groeschel
Marketing Director
Sales Manager & Media Strategist
bite off more than you can chew. The team at Never Boring has, once again, expanded so we can better serve
Sign Manager
Office Manager
Grant Boring Film & Multimedia Director
Ashley Flesuras Marketing Representative
our clients. Pretty soon, we're going to need a bigger building. We thought it was time to take stock of our team - the new addition of our Sales Manager/Media Strategist Warren Groeschel has us playing musical desks, again. Not that we're complaining.
Betty Gay
Aya Ueno
Ken Brown
Steve Caballlero
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
The more we grow, the more we can help you. Your advertising is a big job - let our team of communications experts help you with your portion control and take a little...or a lot - off your plate.
Over 200 national & international awards.
Katie Floyd
Amanda Boyer
Kristin Bowker
Yvette Marble
Sign Specialist
Advertising Representative
Advertising Representative
Office Assistant
Co ver Sto ry
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman Kathy Halsey, AT&T
Getting Married is Big Business
6
Chairman Elect Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group
Co m m u ni ty D evel o pm en t
Immediate Past Chairman Gary McKinsey, Corporate College
Vice Chairman Finance Dennis Wann, Tim Colbert & Associates, Inc.
Vice Chairman of External Operations David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates
Vice Chairman of Internal Operations Eric Benson, JS West & Company
Directors Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum, CPA
Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions
Leadership Modesto Announcements Awards and Achievements Chamber Calendar
14 16 18 26
Neal Khatri, Best Western Khatri Properties Sharon Likely, Kaiser Permanente Bill Moreno, Fire2Wire
Eco n o m i c D evel o pm en t
Ron Owen, Bank of the West
Karna Harrigfeld Petrulakis, Herum\Crabtree Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah
Ex-Officio Bill Bassitt, The Alliance
George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College
Melissa Heath, Warden’s Office Products Center
Chamber Staff Joy Madison, President/CEO
Nita Gruendeman, Membership Sales Manager Agnes Amerine, Retention Manager
Minnie Dodge, Administrative Manager Sharon Novotny, Accountant
New Member Profiles People On the Move Work In Progress Land of Opportunity
15 12 21 25
Melanie Smith, Administrative Assistant
About Progress... Postmaster: Send address changes to: PROGRESS, P.O. Box
N etw o r ki n g A nd R e fe r r a l s
844, Modesto, CA 95353. Editorial opinions are not necessarily those
of the Board of Directors or members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Chamber members may submit news by contacting: Progress Editor, email info@modchamber.org, P.O. Box 844, Modesto, CA
95353, (209) 577-5757, fax (209) 577-2673. Inquiries about ad rates,
please contact Ashley Flesuras at (209) 526-9136. Deadline is the 10th of each month for news and advertisements for the following month’s publication (news published at the discretion of the Editor on a first come, first served, space available basis).
Publisher
Business Before and After Hours Ribbon Cuttings New Chamber Members
19 22 23
Modesto Chamber of Commerce
(209) 577-5757 • info@modchamber.org
Graphic Design Never Boring Design Associates
(209) 526-9136 • www.neverboring.com
Photography Cory Warner, Studio Warner
(209) 544-6511 • cwphotoguy@aol.com
Printer Parks Printing
(209) 576-2568 • frankp@parksprinting.com
Chamber Works For You
Distribution
What would new business be like without the Modesto Chamber of Commerce? I
Parks Printing
(209) 576-2568
launched my career as a Financial Services Professional with MassMutual Financial
Advertising Sales Kristin Bowker
Group in August 2009. My second day on the job, I attended a new member
Never Boring Design Associates
orientation at the Chamber. I was fortunate enough to sit next to the Ambassador
(209) 526-9136 • progress@neverboring.com
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Mission Statement
of the Year. She inspired me to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the
To promote the region’s economic strengths and vitality; identify and
promote services that are valuable to our members; advocate for public
policy that is advantageous to the business community; and fully participate and partner in activities to improve quality of life.
On the cover Jeff and Julia Orona
Photo by Cory Warner
Julia Mensinger
Chamber to network within the business community. As an Ambassador, I have met many local movers and shakers. It has been a good start. I actively attend Ribbon
Cutting ceremonies and Mixers. I am proud to work with MassMutual, bringing strength and expertise to the business community, with help from the Chamber. (209) 577-5100, juliabolton@finsvcs.com. CA Insurance License #0G65097
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PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673 www.modchamber.org • info@modchamber.org
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
3
L e ader s hi p
®
Chairman’s Corner
Call or visit our showroom to explore all the possibilities Classic has to offer.
Outside my office I keep a stack of voter registration forms
(209) 524-1966
so employees in my building always have easy access to
4623 McHenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95356 www.classicpartyrentals.com
register to vote or change their information. The box that holds these forms simply states the following: “Mumble. Grumble. Complain. Wallow. Hope. Despair. Worry. Kathy Halsey
Vote. Just a reminder: the one at the bottom changes things a lot faster.”
I have always believed in the power of voting. It is one opportunity we are given
to truly speak up and be heard. It you don’t believe that your vote counts, then talk to Assembly member Tom Berryhill, who lost his first attempt at the assembly by 84 votes. Or speak to the supporters of Measure S, the Stanislaus County
transportation tax, which needed 67% of the vote to pass, but after more than 155,000 votes, fell just short at 66.42%. Better yet, talk to the citizens of Waterford
who had two election ties within three years, and the winning candidates were decided by a coin toss. Elections are won and lost by slim margins all the time, so if
you think your vote doesn’t count, you’re wrong. In 1850, California was admitted to the union by a margin of just one vote.
It is our right and privilege to vote. It is one thing that puts us all on equal grounds, because it doesn’t matter how much money you make, what you do for a living,
your race, or your gender, we all get one vote. I believe we are all responsible to be active in positive change, and voting is one way to influence change.
It’s important, however, that you are an educated voter. It’s frustrating to see people standing in the polling area reading the brief description of a measure or
candidate and then forming their opinion and making their vote on that smidgen of information. Ballot measures can be very complicated and unless you understand their detail and their overall impact, you may be voting completely opposite of your opinion on the issue.
Each election the Chamber’s Government Relations Council studies, debates and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors on the ballot’s components. It’s
through this research that the Chamber becomes informed and makes decisions based on the impact to local business, which is then communicated to our membership through email and the Chamber’s website. We do this so we can
provide an opportunity for our membership to be better educated on business issues when they are voting.
Hundreds of thousand of your fellow American citizens serving in the Armed Forces have given their lives to preserve your freedom to vote. As the June 8th
election rolls around, please don’t sit around and mumble, grumble, complain and wallow, instead, vote. Vote because you want to add your voice. Vote because it is your right and privilege. Vote because you care about your community.
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
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Community Development
From
the
The Modesto Chamber has been your voice of business for
the last 98 years. As the economy shifted throughout the
decades, so has the business model on how the chamber
is contributed and donated by business. That includes lunches, curriculum and supplies.
does business. I’m often asked how we are doing. I’m often
The Chamber has morphed its Business-to-Business Trade Show as the event
The answer is what you expect. We are struggling.
marketing opportunity for member businesses. It started as an event for new
asked how chambers of commerce in general are doing. Joy Madison
CEO
grows in expectation and results. In its sixth year, the Trade Show creates a direct
members only. Existing members were vocal in their desire to showcase their
A year ago the Chamber Board redefined the way the Chamber would do business.
businesses. We’ve tried different venues and now have a volunteer event chairman,
and the economic hardships of others. The loss of membership investment in the
event for all Chamber members. Laura’s professional expertise is paying off in the
Membership in the Chamber has decreased due to the closure of some businesses
Laura Ward of Ward Promotional, helping us maximize the effectiveness of the
Modesto Chamber has stretched resources thinly. Our cash flow is significantly
vigorous interest members are showing for the Trade Show.
cannot carry out the mission of its membership unless it has cash.
Our newest events, the State of the City and State of the Region, have been
Chamber revenue comes from two main sources – membership and events. It
serve as models, the Chamber’s volunteer committee members are confident the
events didn’t make money, it used to be acceptable to the Chamber. No more.
State of the City replace the Chamber’s golf tournament. With so many other golf
of it. Sponsorships are the foundation of every event.
its member investors. State of the City and State of the Region create the opportunity
affected by past due memberships and sponsorships. Like you, the Chamber
welcomed additions by the business community. With two successful events to
used to be that membership was a bulk of the revenue and events were extra. If
events can grow to become not only valued, but expected. State of the Region and
Events are half of the Chamber’s revenue stream. Attendance at events is only part
events, the Chamber decided it needed to do something different – and respond to
Chamber events must fit into one of the five core business principals that chamber
to represent business before government.
members expect.
You might be surprised to learn that our largest fundraiser is Oktoberfest. It
1. Promote a strong local economy
event. Without volunteers it would not happen. Still, it is the most expensive event
3. Represent business before government
permits and police charges.
5. Networking and referrals.
At the direction of the Board, the Chamber developed sponsorship packages.
2. Encourage community development 4. Political advocacy
Some events stand the test of time, others shift, and some go away completely. You make that decision.
Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon both stand the test of time. The events raise money for students, not the Chamber. For more than five decades th Chamber
has understood that encouraging youth is critical to the long term success of our community and the Chamber itself. It has been proven by members of the
Chamber who are working today because of the scholarships they received. There are members of the Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon Committee that were
scholarship recipients and now organize the events. Chamber members and the
community-at-large are pleased with the purpose and outcome of our scholarship events. Each year, the volunteer committees work diligently to keep the events fresh, yet maintaining the tradition you have come to expect.
The success of Leadership Modesto, for example, absolutely depends upon
sponsorships for its existence. For ten months each year, for the last 28 years,
LEMO has provided the leadership training business demands. Tuition covers
only the bare essentials like the Asilomar retreat and bus transportation. The rest
requires our sponsors to provide product and services to underwrite much of the to present when you add in the costs of the venue, set up, entertainment, security,
Companies are using the sponsorship directory to choose and prioritize events
that would give them the most bang for their buck. The earlier the sponsorship, the quicker the Chamber can market your business.
The Chamber thanks all of its sponsors for events. We work hard to ensure the events are up to your standards. And we want the entire business community to know that you made a significant investment in the Chamber. We list our sponsors in the program, let the community know verbally, on the web, in emails and in
Progress. Sometimes we inadvertently miss a sponsor. That is devastating to us. Without sponsors we cannot produce events. If we forget, sponsors may not invest in the Chamber in the future. We made that mistake when we were thanking
sponsors for Leadership Modesto Healthcare Day. Memorial Hospital somehow got edited from the list of sponsors. We are very sorry. Memorial provided the
venue, lunch and experts that organized and delivered the curriculum for the day. I encourage you to check the Chamber calendar in Progress and online for a list
of events. Call us for a sponsorship directory. Invest in visible sponsorships that
fit your business. Come to events and maximize your membership. People do business with people they know and trust.
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Joy Madison, President and CEO
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
5
Getting Married
is
Big Business
Written by Heidi Howell Photo by Echo Media Productions
W
eddings are a $50 billion annual industry. Rain or shine, they occur in every economy and support local commerce. If you’re planning a wedding, family reunion or other event,
here are some resources you’ll want to know about. First, let’s consider venues. The Seasons Catering & Multi-Cultural Event Center on McHenry Avenue offers seven indoor and outdoor spaces for groups of 20 to 700. “A couple can be married outside, then continue the celebration inside,” says owner and CEO Youra Tarverdi.
6
Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Available are a competitively-priced grand ballroom, covered patio with stage, bar and grill, a small boutique convention center, kitchens and more – all set in a natural, relaxed atmosphere. The patio and newly remodeled building entrance provide picturesque locales. Full turnkey services include catering by Cordon Bleu graduates, plus tables, seating, decorations, candelabras, flower-filled vases and more. “Our advanced conference center hosts many multicultural events for the social service community,” Tarverdi’s goal is to make The Seasons a haven for everyone from individuals to non-profit organizations. A media component is being added this year that will allow groups to broadcast events
C ov e r S t ory
on a closed-circuit channel. To learn more, visit www.gotoseasons.com.
including bridal bouquets, corsages, reception flowers and church decorations,” he says.
Once you’ve selected a location, you’ll need equipment and accessories. General Manager Loren Marple says that with 35 U.S. locations, Classic Party Rentals is the world’s largest fullservice party rental company. “We specialize in event consultation, layout design and rental equipment for any occasion.”
FTD ranked Hart Floral in the top 150 from among 20,000 florists in the U.S. and Canada, and Hart Floral is a Modesto Bee Readers Choice “Best Florist.” Downing adds, “Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. We are committed to making it all you have dreamed of.” For details, visit www.hartfloral.com.
Classic Party Rentals on McHenry Avenue offers everything from tent tops to tabletops. “We have china, flatware, glassware, linens, catering equipment, convection ovens, stoves and refrigerators,” Marple notes. Also available are staging, dance floors, custom lighting
Focusing on handcrafted artisan truffles and special confections is Must Be Heaven Chocolat, a chocolate e-boutique and dessert caterer. “We provide you with a fine dining dessert experience in the comfort of your own home or office because we ship nationwide,” says Chelse
Photo by Hudson Photography
Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. We are committed to making it all you have dreamed of. — Chris Downing, President Hart Floral and more. You can also purchase items at the adjacent 13,000-square foot Grand Events! retail party supply store and have them delivered in conjunction with your rental order. “We will help you create your dream,” Marple says. “Some clients walk in knowing exactly what they want to accomplish and others are looking for ideas. We will guide you through the process.” For more information, go to www.classicpartyrentals.com.
Coleman, professional chocolatier and CEO. “We also offer gourmet toffee that is hand-dipped in our fine Belgian dark chocolate.” Coleman says Must Be Heaven Chocolat takes the guesswork out of selecting the perfect wedding favor. “Fine chocolate is not only loved by many, it also has many incredible health benefits. Our brief chocolate consultation allows brides and grooms to sample our superior chocolate, select their Custom Favor Box and leave the rest to us.”
Family owned and operated full-service florist Hart Floral on McHenry Avenue has served the Modesto area for more than 65 years. Available are fresh cut flowers, custom silk and dry arrangements, plants, gifts, balloons, gourmet baskets and more; all delivered locally or worldwide. “Although some of our flowers originate from as far away as Holland and Australia, we pride ourselves on locally grown flowers handpicked from the farm,” says Chris Downing, President.
The company’s chocolate tastings and wine & chocolate pairings are great additions to any bridal shower, bachelorette party, spa party or other event. Details are available at www.mustbeheavenchocolat.com.
When planning your wedding or other special occasion, enjoy a free personal consultation. “We coordinate all aspects of your wedding flowers,
“We know how important it is to stay ahead of the times with the latest in fashion and design, she says. “Our store has an extensive inventory
Try Ciccarelli Jewelers, one of many Chamber members offering fine jewelry. “We’re a familyowned jewelry store with Old World integrity, and that warm feeling of family,” says Carla Ciccarelli, co-owner with husband Greg.
Photo by Echo Media Productions
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Photo by Mystic Images
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
7
C ov e r S t ory
of fine jewelry, specializing in bridal jewelry, with hundreds of fabulous new engagement rings, featuring eight top designers. We have the newest, most stylish men’s rings in all the latest metals!” Carla Ciccarelli adds, “We are honored to be the important first step in a couple’s wedding plans. We help make choosing wedding rings a wonderful experience couples will always remember.” Services include custom jewelry design, professional appraisals, jewelry/ watch repair, pearl restringing and complimentary ring cleaning and inspection. This month, Ciccarelli Jewelers celebrates its 20th Anniversary. The Ciccarellis invite you to join the fun and festivities! Learn more at www.ciccarellijewelers.com. Look great with the right makeup and skin care products from Independent Beauty Consultant Karly Mariah Richey. “I build personal relationships with my customers,” Richey says. “They’re welcome to try the products before they buy, at their location or at my retail store on Coconut Palm Way in Modesto.” Richey also sells the Galvanic Spa System II from NuSkin, which is a face-lift treatment that prepares one for the Mary Kay experience. She also recently formed a full service team of wedding professionals to give couples time to relax together. Contact Richey for details. “I like being a personal skin specialist for my customers,” she says. “They receive individualized instruction in product usage, both before and after the sale, and my 100 percent money back guarantee.” Richey suggests that couples not wait too long before beginning the wedding planning process. “Give me a call soon so we can get started!” Visit Richey’s website at www.marykay.com/krichey11170. P
Photo by Echo Media Productions
Matrimonial facts: • Every year an average of 2.4 million weddings are performed in the U.S. • Today’s median age for first-time brides is 27 years. For grooms, it’s 29 years • $28,082 is the average amount spent on a traditional American wedding • 88 percent of Americans marry at least once in their lifetime • One-third of those getting married have been married previously
Source: About.com
The companies mentioned in the article are just a few of the Chamber Member businesses you may contact for your wedding plans. The Chamber has numerous members who provide venues, gifts and services to enhance your wedding and make it the very best you can imagine. Please check Chamber Member listings at www.modchamber.org/membersearch/ for a complete list of the many companies that can fulfill your plans.
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Photo by Echo Media Productions
representing business before government
U.S. Chamber Breakfast
venU
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce hosted Dick
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Castner, Western Regional Director for the US
Chamber of Commerce on April 14th. Joining the
Convenient location
dialogue were members of the Modesto Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Park-like setting
Board of Directors and its Governmental Relations
Indoor or outdoor
Dick Castner
Experienced staff
Council, members of the One Voice delegation that goes to Washington, DC and members of the
Turlock Chamber of Commerce and its CEO.
Professional catering
The discussion, very frank at times, centered on the current issues in Washington, DC and how they affect us at home. Whether the plans for your next event call for a small, informal gathering, an offsite business meeting, or the wedding of your dreams, the grounds and facilities of CSU Stanislaus offer everything you need to make your event memorable. Chartwells is proud to provide food service for VenU and CSU Stanislaus. Our culinary team specializes in creating enticing menus and unique presentations to complement any style from casual to elegant.
CSU Stanislaus alumni receive a 10% discount on rental fees!
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Health Care â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Signed into law, it is flawed, complicated and promises to be expensive. Expect several technical corrections bills as the law phases
in over the next ten years. Expect regulatory changes. The US Chamber held a conference call with chambers on April 21, 2010. If you would
like more information or a timeline provided by the US Chamber, please
contact the Modesto Chamber. For specific information please contact your insurance, legal, tax and actuary experts.
Banking and Finance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Expect some banking reform legislation. Education and Training â&#x20AC;&#x201C; No Child Left Behind has morphed into the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Does not need reauthorization this year, but is on the table.
Immigration Reform â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Do not expect anything this year although desperately needed.
Estate Taxes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; No current law, but will revert back to 41% - 55% tax rate on estates beginning at $1 million.
Budget and Deficit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Will consume much of the remaining time in session.
Confirmation of Supreme Court Justice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Next to the budget, this will occupy most of the remaining time in the Senate.
The audience engaged in a lengthy discussion of the federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
education policy and the US Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position. As a follow up to information we received at a briefing with the US Chamber in Washington, members of the business community expressed frustration
with the policy and its disconnect with employers. More information will be forthcoming on the proposed new bill.
Finally, the group discussed the upcoming 2010 off-year elections, targeted seats in both houses of Congress and the effect redistricting may have in 2012. There is no report of the prognostication by the audience.
10
Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
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Ec onomic Development
People On
the
Move
Children’s Hospital Central California has
announced Gordon L. Alexander, Jr., MD as its new
President/CEO. Dr. Alexander will begin his role
this summer. Alexander comes from Fairview Health Services in Minneapolis, MN where he served as the Gordon Alexander, Jr., MD
President of the University of Minnesota Children’s
Hospital and University of Minnesota Medical Center.
In his tenure, he instituted a performance management system which
resulted in strong financial performance, and a strategic planning process which improved quality and patient safety and expanded access for services to children. (559) 353-8610, www.childrenscentralcal.org.
Dr. Gaither Loewenstein has accepted an offer
by the Yosemite Community College District Board of Trustees as president of Modesto Junior College
effective July 1, 2010. Loewenstein is currently VP of Norco College in the Riverside Community College
District. He has over 16 years experience as a college Dr. Gaither Loewenstein
administrator, 11 in the California community college
system. Loewenstein also has Central Valley roots. He was the Dean of Instruction, Humphrey’s College, and worked in the planning field for San Joaquin County and the City of Escalon.
Oak Valley Community Bank (NASDAQ:
OVLY) announces the promotion of Peter Brown to Vice President Commercial Loan Officer. Brown
has been with Oak Valley for two years as an AVP Commercial Loan Officer. He is based out of the Peter Brown
Bank’s Oakdale Branch and serves the commercial
banking needs of Central Valley businesses. Brown has
over ten years of commercial banking experience. He currently resides in
Oakdale with his wife and their two children. For more information, call (866) 844-7500 or visit us online at www.ovcb.com.
Commerce Title Company of Modesto names Kim Arivett their Branch Business Development
Coordinator. Real estate industry veteran Arivett
brings her mortgage and marketing industry expertise to this new business development role. Arivett will Kim Arivett
help lead the Modesto Commerce Title branch through its high growth period and help expand its role in the
local real estate industry. Arivett will work with the team led by Erin Muir, Branch Manager and Senior Escrow Officer. Contact (209) 235-9580, 220-G Standiford Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350. Continued on page 24
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Community Development
Leadership Custom
Hardwood
Flooring
and
Modesto
More
Leadership Modesto classes learn about many aspects of the community, some dealing with serious issues such as public safety and infrastructure
and land use, but they also learn about the cultural facets of the community
which stoke the heart and soul of Modesto. Day Chair Christine Almen,
Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office, said, “Planning the day was really fun, I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about our community and share with the class.” Modesto has many different cultural offerings noted by Almen, “The most difficult part of planning the day was deciding what to focus on, there is so much!”
Hardwood flooring installation, refinish & repair. Tile, granite & laminate sales & installation. Showroom located at 823 N. Emerald Ave, Modesto, Ca. 95351 Phone (209) 571-8583
www.astepaboveflooring.com 10% Chamber Discount *max value $500.00
Financing Available
Modesto’s cultural scene is full; spending their time downtown, the class learned about the art scene at the State Theatre, Modesto’s history through
a tour of downtown visiting McHenry Mansion and Museum, and visited the new cultural hub, the Gallo Center for the Arts. Patricia Ward, Wild
Signs, noted, “The peek into Modesto’s architectural past was intriguing. I think it should be talked about more, made more relevant to local people,
to understand what history their town actually holds. I think it helps foster civic pride and a better community.”
Kate Trompetter, Center for Human Serves, enthusiastically shared in the appreciation for Modesto: “I loved this day! It was such a great celebration of some of the music, art and culture created by people within
our community. Our community should celebrate and acknowledge these things and people more often.”
Almen thanked Fuzio Universal Bistro for providing “a wonderful meal and meeting room for our lunch.” The Leadership Modesto program requires
Local Feel. Global Expertise. Small Business or Fortune 500 - we have you covered!
these are just some of them: Doug Holcomb and Greg Edwards provided
local artist CDs; Sam Pierstoph, poet, signed and donated a copy of his
book; the Modesto Nuts donated t-shirts; and Stanislaus County Economic Development provided drive tour CDs. Leadership Modesto thrives with participation from Chamber and community members.
Since 1913
Lic
sponsors like Fuzio, and contributors who give of their time and resources,
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Access to the expertise of over 135 employees Dedicated claims department advocating on your behalf
Minnie’s News Bites
© Never Boring Design Associates • neverboring.com
Unparalleled Risk Management services
Save the date, Thursday, May 13 for the Chamber’s 6th
Free legal and HR advice
annual Business-to-Business Trade Show at the SOS
Club. This high profile annual event is the place to be Marc O’Neil
to see and be seen! New and existing members will
Jeff Quinn
Minnie Dodge
exhibit their company’s products and services. The
event features hourly demonstrations, prizes, food,
beverages, and great networking. Bring your managers and your sales team
and invite your customers. Come see for yourself what your fellow members
wintonireland.com 1100 14th Street Modesto (209) 529-3480
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
have to offer! Event hours are 3pm to 7pm. See you there!
Economic Development
New Member Profiles In 1982, George Collier took and passed the certification and became
a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association. Since 1979, I have been a tennis instructor and coach in the Modesto area. I reside within the city of Riverbank but conduct tennis activities as far as San Mateo and
Foster City. During the winter, I am at the Ritz Carlton Resort, Naples, Florida. Please call me at home (209) 869-3948 or on my cell at (209) 7520492. My email address is gctennis@gmail.com.
expertise in Engineering, Business and Organizational Development. The
team consults throughout the Americas and Europe and boasts two local founding partners, Leslie Pickering and Dr Scott Ellis. We benchmark producers of goods and services and design strategies to reduce costs and improve productivity. We implement the strategies and train our customers
to continually improve without us. In short, we show businesses how to do
Mar-Lite Optical Suppliers was founded in January 2009. The principals are Ken Martin, President, and Tom Olson, Vice President. Ken and Tom were the previous owners of Martin Optical Service in Modesto.
Martin Optical Service was founded by John A. Martin, Kenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father, in 1954. Mar-Lite is a wholesale optical laboratory serving eye care professionals
throughout Northern California. We are dedicated to providing our eye care professionals with a quality product and a quick turnaround time. We can be reached at (209) 521-9308, Mon-Fri 8-5.
P2 is a Seattle-based team of improvement professionals with
the right things right. Visit us at psquaredusa.com or contact Whitney at (425) 922-6436.
Seniors Helping Seniors is a non-medical in-home care service for
seniors by seniors. Seniors want to remain living independently in their
home, but may need a little help from a friend. Seniors Helping Seniors provides that help by matching caring and compassionate seniors to those
seeking companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, shopping, transportation, yard work and handyman services. We provide services
throughout most of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. (209) 573-0291, shs@shscentralvalley.com.
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Š Never Boring Design â&#x20AC;˘ neverboring.com
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
15
Economic Development
Announcements Candlewood Suites is another new Silver
Level President’s Club Circle of Influence member.
members of the Northern California Chapter of Certified Residential Specialists
Chairman Kathy Halsey is Cathy Bludau, Jolene
Association of Realtors share information to help homeowners maximize
Accepting the President’s Club plaque from
Saldivar and Carol Ann Rangel. Candlewood Suites is a new full-service hotel in Turlock located
Candlewood Suites
Deni Royer, Realtor, CRS with Prudential California Realty, met with other
at 1000 Powers Court. If you need short- or long-
term accommodations for family or contract employees, this is the place to go. The Chamber appreciates all of its President’s Club members, and is pleased to
(CRS), to hear Bob Hart, Chairman of Green Task Force for the California
the value of their homes and save money on their energy costs. For more information on how homeowners can save money on energy costs, increase their
home value and take advantage of tax credits and rebates, contact Deni Royer at www.DeniRoyer.com.
welcome new ones.
Sarah Palin to speak at California State University,
Stanislaus’ 50th Anniversary Gala. Former candidate
Mercer Foods is also welcomed as a Silver Level
for Vice President and Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin
President’s Club Circle of Influence member. Accepting
will serve as the guest of honor at CSU Stanislaus’ 50th
the President’s Club plaque from Chairman Kathy Halsey is Pam Denney. In business for over 25 years,
Mercer Foods is a recognized leader in the freeze-drying Pam Denney
industry. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce utilizes its President’s Club member dues to better advocate for all
of its members in the business community. Call the Chamber to find out more about the additional benefits of being a President’s Club Circle of Influence member, (209) 577-5757.
Rob Ellett, a veteran Realtor with PMZ Real Estate, earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert
(CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training
in foreclosure avoidance, with a particular emphasis on short sales. At a time when millions of homeowners are Rob Ellett
struggling with the possibility of foreclosure, the skills and
education amassed by Ellett will help benefit Modesto area
residents and communities. Rob says, “I learned that a short sale is a dignified way to avoid foreclosure.” For more information, contact Rob Ellett, (209) 5484532, robellett@pmz.com, www.pmz.com/rellett.
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Anniversary Gala on Friday, June 25. Mrs. Palin recently Sarah Palin
released her bestseller autobiography “Going Rogue:
An American Life.” She is also a Fox News political
commentator. The black-tie fundraising event will begin with a reception at
6 p.m. followed by a five-course dinner and dancing. Tickets are limited, call (209) 667-3131.
Modesto City-County Airport announces Harrah’s Laughlin has
added two additional flights to the 2010 schedule. Package trips are set for Monday, August 9 returning Friday, August 13 and Tuesday, September 21 departure returning Friday, September 24. Interested parties can call Harrah’s
Air Reservations at (800) 315-9113 to book the flight package. Parties who are not members of Harrah’s Total Rewards loyalty program, the August and September leisure charter packages are available for $169 per person and include round-trip air, hotel accommodations, and an airport hotel transfer.
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Patty Lea Downtown Branch Manager Dorian Predes Premier Client Services Officer Greg Reis Customer Service Supervisor
Safe, Sound and Always Around Rabobank. For a secure future. The next time you’re at a horse show, a neighborhood fundraiser or a business luncheon, keep an eye out for a community banker from Rabobank, N.A. Our friendly team of bankers is dedicated to serving our customers and serving our community. When you see us in your neighborhood say hello. We’re safe, sound and always around.
Stop by and see us today. 1407 I Street, Modesto • 557-8888 1400 Standiford Avenue, Modesto • 576-2599 2190 W. Monte Vista Avenue, Turlock • 632-6065 1861 Bellevue Road, Atwater • 357-7438 731 E. Yosemite Avenue, Merced • 725-1375 2000 M Street, Merced • 726-3650 1451 W. Pacheco Boulevard, Suite H, Los Banos • 827-8490 1305 Main Street, Suite B, Newman • 862-0111
www.rabobankamerica.com Rabobank, N.A. • Member FDIC
Community Development
Awards
and
Achievements
Founded in 1984 by twelve Central California dairy families, Hilmar
Gary Plummer, former President and CEO of the
whey products. The business began in Hilmar, California and a second
an award from the Western Association of Chamber
Cheese Company has grown to be a global leader in processing cheese and
Modesto Chamber of Commerce recently received
manufacturing site in Dalhart, Texas opened in 2007. Still privately held,
Executives (WACE) for his 30 years of service doing
the company employs almost 1,000 people. An active educational and community partner, Hilmar Cheese Company contributes to hundreds of local events and charities and operates a Visitor Center with dairy education exhibits hosting thousands of school children each year.
Ernie Villanueva, Prudential California Realty,
Chamber work. Gary worked for our great community Gary Plummer
Chamber business.
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce
2009. On January 29, 2010, Villanueva received the
Board of Directors are pleased to announce that Linda
Chamber of Commerce and on February 5, 2010,
Ambassador for the 1st Quarter of 2010. Linda won
Member of the Year Award from the American Canyon
Curtis, Kelly Services, Inc. is the highest performing
he received the Realtor of the Year Award from the
American Canyon Association of Realtors. “It brings
me great joy to congratulate Ernie on his momentous achievement,” said Craig C. Lewis, President/CEO. “He is a valuable asset to the organization.” www.prucalifornia.com
English Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center received the
the distinction of Ambassador of the Month for both Linda Curtis
January and February. She achieved this award by
consistently working as an Ambassador at events and
interviewing Chamber members. The Chamber works with the help from
volunteers like Linda. Talk to her at the next Chamber event to see how you can get involved.
honor of Facility of the Year for 2009 from Generations Healthcare. This
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce Board
who provide outstanding care and customer satisfaction to the residents
Living Modesto for being the Ambassador of the Month
designation was the result of hard work and dedication by staff members
of Directors commend Rebekah Martin, Pacifica Senior
of our community. English Oaks provides comprehensive physical,
for March. This is Rebekah’s first win as Ambassador
occupational and speech therapy services and specializes in developing unique, individualized therapy programs for each resident. English Oaks is located at 2633 W. Rumble Road. For more information or a tour, call (209) 577-1001.
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Chamber of Commerce in Illinois. Chamber staff
congratulates Gary for this achievement and for his dedicated service to
received two high honors for his achievements in
Ernie Villanueva
for 5 1/2 years, and is now the CEO of the Springfield
Progress 4.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
of the Month, as she is relatively new to the program. Rebekah Martin
Rebekah won this honor by conducting Ambassador visits to Chamber members and volunteering at our
events. Good job Rebekah!
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N e tw o r kin g A n d R e f e rra l s
Business Before
and
After Hours
Monthly Coffee Hour
Monthly Mixer
Hosted by: Lakewood Memorial Park/Funeral Home Inc.
Hosted by: Funworks Family Fun Company Coffee Provided By:
Lakewood Memorial Park/Funeral Home Inc.
Wine Provided By:
Funworks Family Fun Company staff photos attached.
Founded on the belief of community responsibility and service, Lakewood Memorial Park was created to be a beautiful commemoration for those who served. Lakewood Memorial Park/Funeral Home Inc. 900 Santa Fe Avenue, Hughson 95326 (209) 883-0411
The Funworks mission is to provide a safe, clean, affordable, fun, family centered amusement destination. Funworks Family Fun Company 4307 Coffee Road, Modesto 95357 (209) 549-7888
& Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
19
Ec onomic Development
President’s Club Circle of Influence Diamond Level
Bank of the West Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc. Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC Doctors Medical Center-DMC Frito-Lay Company Inc. Kaiser Permanente Pacific Southwest Container Physician Referral Service-DMC Rabobank Romo & Associates Save Mart Supermarkets Walmart
Gold Level
Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Inc. Costco Wholesale Evergreen Rehabilitation Care Center Foster Farms Dairy J C Penney Company Memorial Medical Center The Modesto Bee Modesto Irrigation District Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball Post Foods, LLC RACOR, Division of Parker Hannifin Corp. Sysco Food Services Taco Bell
Silver Level
5.11 Tactical Inc. AAA AAA Locating, Inc. AT&T Acme Construction Company, Inc. Ambeck Mortgage Associates American Chevrolet American Medical Response Applegate Johnston, Inc. Aramark Uniform Services Atherton & Associates BBVA Compass BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Basic Resources, Inc. Brandman University Part of Chapman University Brown, Fink, Boyce & Astle, LLP Bunge Oils California State University, Stanislaus Candlewood Suites Central Valley Medical Group Children’s Hospital Central California Children’s Hospital & Research Center-Oakland Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Citibank Clark Pest Control Comcast ConAgra Foods Construction Management Corp. Courtyard by Marriott Covenant Village of Turlock Curtis Legal Group Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios, Pacher & Silva
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Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Days Inn Del Monte Plant #1 Delta Sierra Beverage DirectLine Technologies, Inc. DoubleTree Hotel English Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Hospital External Resources Inc. F & M Bank Galletto Ristorante Georgia-Pacific Gianelli & Associates Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc. Great Valley Center Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Grover Landscape Services, Inc. Harris Moran Seed Company I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc. ITT Technical Institute Institute of Technology International Paper Company J S West & Company Kaplan College McHenry Medical Group, Inc. Mercer Foods Mocse Credit Union Modesto Commerce Bank Modesto Toyota Mraz, Amerine & Associates Nestle USA Oak Valley Community Bank O’Brien’s Market, Inc. Oldcastle Glass Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Panelized Structures, Inc. Pepsi-Cola Bottling Group Prime Shine Express Raley’s Rizo-Lopez Foods Inc. San Joaquin Valley College Seven Up Bottling Corp. Solecon Industrial Contractors Solid Networks, Inc. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Stanislaus Food Products Co. Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Stantec Consulting, Inc. Storer Coachways Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Turlock Irrigation District US Bank Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW-Infiniti Versa Cold Logistics Services W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Wells Fargo Bank Winton, Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency Yosemite Meat Co., Inc.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Work In Progress a series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies
At O’Brien’s Market, Customers Are Number One O’Brien’s Market has been a staple in the
out there that wants it, and we’re here to provide
Modesto area since the opening of its first
it for them.”
location in 1978. Since that time, O’Brien’s has added two more stores – a Riverbank location
He also points to his store’s large selection
in 1994 and another Modesto location in 2002 –
of health food options as another way that
and become a popular choice for those looking
O’Brien’s addresses the needs of its customers.
to buy their groceries from a locally-owned
“There’s a growing segment of the public
company.
high-quality items deigned to meet the various needs of his customers. As an example, he notes that O’Brien’s uses only the freshest produce, which is bought locally whenever possible. He also cites the presence of the area’s only old-fashioned meat counter as
that’s looking to eat healthier,”
“ There’s a growing segment of the public that’s looking to eat healthier.
”
- Chuck O’Brien
he notes. In response to this growing need, O’Brien’s has
A DVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN
I WEB DESIGN
I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA
I COMMERCIAL SIGNS
created a separate section
MODESTO MEANs BUSINESS
designed to feature healthy
SAVE THE DATE
and all-natural foods, many
Business to Business Trade Show May 13, 2010 3pm - 7pm SOS Club, 819 Sunset Avenue Call Minnie at 577-5757 to reserve your booth
of which were requested by customers. All of these specialty products are offered in addition to an expansive selection of standard grocery items. So whether you’re looking for
a way that O’Brien’s provides superior quality
local produce, healthy choices, fine cheeses,
and service.
or just doing your normal weekly shopping, O’Brien’s Market has the items you need.
Progress magazine is the voice of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business publication in Stanislaus County. For more information or advertising info call (209) 526-9136
O’Brien’s is also the area’s premier provider of a wide spectrum of cheeses and wines. “The Dale Road store, in particular, has the finest cheese selection around,” he says, “There’s a clientele
neverboring.com
due to the wide selection of
• Thank you notes are just as important for businesses as they are for weddings. Make sure your clients know you appreciate their business. • With six graphic designers, Never Boring Design can create anything from logos and letterhead to wedding invites and websites. • All-inclusive is great for businesses and honeymoon travel. Never Boring Design can be your all-inclusive Graphic Design, Web Design, Marketing, Film, and Commercial Sign destination.
•
that the success of his stores is
(Courtesy of Never Boring Design Associates)
© Never Boring Design
Owner Chuck O’Brien believes
Service When You Need It
This story can also be found at www.modbee.com/workinprogress
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
21
N e tw ork i ng And Referrals
Ribbon Cuttings
Nifty After Fifty CareMore Health Plan 1234 McHenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95350 (800) 499-2793
Labor Finders 5642 Pirrone Road Salida, CA 95368 (209) 551-6201
DeHart Technical School 311 Bitritto Way Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 523-4578
22
Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Maxx One Security 121 E. Orangeburg Avenue Ste. 7 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 480-2100
Vintage Faire Nursing & Rehabilitation Services
Lakewood Memorial Park/Funeral Home Inc. 900 Sante Fe Avenue Hughson, CA 95326 (209) 883-0411
Orient House Restaurant
3620 B. Dale Road Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 521-2094
609 Tully Road Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 577-2099
The Pampered Chef
Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Modesto, CA (209) 996-8764
1234 -D McHenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 544-1108
N e tw o r kin g A n d R e f e rra l s
New Chamber Members Affordable Transport 24/7 Michael Shaw 1449 E. F Street, Suite 101E – PMB 154 Oakdale, CA 95361 (209) 606-5607 ph mike2sts@gmail.com www.affordabletransport247.com Transportation
Bella Tours Limousine Service John Shores 5007 McHenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 495-0550 ph (209) 544-9290 fax info@bellatourslimo.com www.bellatourslimo.com Limousine Service
Black Bear Diner – Modesto Tim Thurman 2200 Plaza Parkway Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 529-1440 ph (209) 529-1774 fax modesto@blackbeardiner.com www.blackbeardiner.com Restaurant
CHG
Brad Hawn 1030 11th Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 996-6340 ph brad.hawn@chgstructural.com www.chgstructural.com Engineers-Structural
C’est Joli
Nancy Hawn 1031 11th Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 324-7111 ph nanceelou@hotmail.com Womens Clothing & Accessories
Evergreen Professional Hypnotherapy James Rightmire 1111 J Street, Suite G101 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 622-3837 ph (707) 428-2556 fax jamesrightmire@charter.net www.egreen.net Hypnotherapy
Dr. Irit Goldman
Irit Goldman 1604 Ford Avenue, Suite 1 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 605-9626 ph (209) 577-3412 fax dr.goldmanirit@gmail.com www.marriageandfamilytherapymodesto.com Marriage, Family, Individual Counseling
Modesto Itex Kim & Chuck Bethel 451 Meadow Creek Patterson, CA 95363 (209) 247-2225 ph (209) 892-3738 fax chuck.itex@gmail.com www.itex.com Barter Exchange
Oodles Frozen Yogurt, Inc.
Ron Dickerson 3430 Tully Road #42 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 324-2077 rdickerson07@rocketmail.com www.oodlesyogurt.com www.oodlesfrozenyogurt.com Yogurt
P2 (P Squared LLC) Scott Ellis 1100 SW 29th Street Renton, WA 98057 (425) 985-8508 ph (425) 873-5453 fax scottellis@psquaredusa.com www.psquaredusa.com Business Consultants
Seniors Helping Seniors
Jim Toal 1713 Seven Falls Drive Modesto, CA 95355 (209) 573-0291 ph (209) 572-3544 fax shs@shscentralvalley.com www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/centralvalley Home Health Services
Walpole & Co., LLP Layla Edmonds P.O. Box 51 Ceres, CA 95307 (805) 569-9487 ph (805) 569-9542 fax layla@walpolecpa.com www.walpoleits.com Accounting Software
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
23
Ec onomic Development
People On
the
Move
Continued from page 12
Ash Gokli, M.D., was named Chief Medical Officer
for Sutter Health’s Central Valley Region. In this role, he will collaborate with physicians and facility
leadership to improve all aspects of care delivery by enhancing quality and patient safety. Additionally, Ash Gokli, M.D
he will lead efforts to improve, develop and enhance
existing clinical programs throughout the region.
“By focusing on quality, patient safety, service excellence and clinical programs, we will become the provider of choice for the communities we
serve.” said Gokli. For information, contact Catherine Larsen, 525-3106 or larsenc2@sutterhealth.org.
The COMPASS® is your guide to better health. Come in for a ZYTO COMPASS® assessment.
Premier Valley Bank welcomes Geri Lewis
to our team. She is a great addition to the working environment we have established throughout the years. Geri has worked in the banking industry for 20+
years. She is an active mother of two, and an influential Geri Lewis
individual in our local community. Geri comes to Premier Valley Bank from the Modesto Chamber of
Commerce. We would like to welcome her with open arms and applaud her
accomplishments and involvement in our community. 300 Banner Court #2, (209) 523-4811.
Rosie Avina joins Merced-based BrightDart bringing
with her over 20 years of experience. As Sales & Marketing Consulta nt, Ms. Avina will focus on bringing
in new business, managing client relationships and promoting the company’s unique array of marketing Rosie Avina
services. Ms. Avina’s career includes time spent with
local as well as national media organizations. Founded
in 2006, as a Veteran and Woman Owned business, BrightDart has earned its reputation in the marketplace by providing cutting edge marketing, printing and design services, including personalized direct mail services.
Struck Employee Benefits announces the addition of Melodie Pereira as head of Client Services
and Human Resources. Melodie brings a broad range of skills and experiences, having spent over seven years with HR departments in a diversity of settings, Melodie Pereira
and joins the firm at a particularly strategic time as Struck launches new areas of client support. Melodie
has a gift for translating client questions into action plans that underscore
the firm’s commitment to personalized service. Contact Melodie at (209) 524-2893 or www.struckbenefits.com.
24
Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
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Prime Shine Express presents:
LAND OF OPPORTUNITY ...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement
Robert Marks, President Rogers Jewelry Co. In 1937 a young jewelry salesman, Harry Marks, and his partner, Dr. Robert Moon, a practicing optometrist, founded Rogers Jewelry Company in Modesto. It was the midst of the Great Depression, but opportunities were to be Robert Marks found no matter the state of the economy. The company quickly expanded throughout the Central Valley and to Reno, NV. For Harry, 1937 was a year to name things “Roger” since both his store and his son were so christened. Roger Marks fittingly chose a career at Rogers and is currently its CEO. With Robert Marks as the company president, the family business is in its third generation and each has found new opportunities to fulfill the company mission to “help its clients celebrate their stories of love, and success, and commitment through the joyful marking of milestones that are best expressed by the giving and wearing of beautiful jewelry.” What changes has the company experienced since it was first established? Over the years we have transitioned from downtowns to malls to freestanding superstores. These changes involved more than just location, but demanded new inventory, advertising, personnel and service strategies. With four times the square footage of a typical mall store, our superstores enable us to offer our clients greater selection, greater convenience, and a much more comfortable environment. Our new stores have amenities such as private viewing rooms, computer design centers, stores within a store (featuring the top brands in the industry), and in-store jewelry manufacturing facilities. In addition, they have comfortable lounge areas, satellite television, fireplaces, childrens play areas and complimentary beverages. Due to the available space, we are able to stock a much larger selection of jewelry than we could in a typical mall store. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now? When I was in high school and college, I worked part time in our store. There I discovered what a pleasant profession the jewelry business could be. For the most part, we are in the business of helping people satisfy their needs or desires at happy times in their lives: they are getting married, they are having a birthday, they are celebrating a promotion, or they simply want to express to someone else, in a tangible, maybe even extravagant way that they are loved. At other times it is a business of rescuing poor, bewildered guys from the dog houses they have thoughtlessly found themselves domiciled. What a great job!
But, I’ve always had a natural proclivity toward math and science. There are not many opportunities for such aptitudes to find expression in a jewelry store, so I went off to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo and earned a degree majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in computer science. Upon my graduation in 1979, I was pleasantly surprised to find an opportunity that merged my past experience in the jewelry industry with my new found college degree. At that time, jewelry specific software packages were not commercially available, so I landed a job as a software program/designer for Rogers Jewelry Company. In a coincidence worthy of a Dickens novel, this happened to be the very same Rogers Jewelry Company that was founded in my very own hometown and run by my very own father. What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life and how have you achieved that? I’ve been through a few recessions, the current being the most severe. One might suspect that jewelry sales, as “luxury” purchases, would wane in such times. However, in good times and bad, people still fall in love, get married, and have reasons to celebrate. The size of their celebration may be diminished by their financial circumstances, but their desire to celebrate is not, and there is a unique, personal item of jewelry available in anyone’s price range. While many of our competitors have been contracting, we’ve seen this as an opportunity to enhance and reconfigure our inventory to fit the changing needs of our clients. Our strong position in the jewelry industry has enabled us to take advantage of the opportunities present in today’s economy. Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs? I have been a member of Modesto Rotary since 1999. “MoRo” is a superb service organization made all the better this year by the great leadership of its current president, Larry Dempsey. I’ve been involved in a variety of church groups, but my primary role in the community is as arm-candy for my wife, School Board Trustee Cindy Marks, as she attends the social functions of the many organizations in which she serves. What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? When you are in a management position, don’t be afraid to hire people that are highly skilled, intelligent, and maybe even a bit of a handful. This may seem obvious, but I’ve known managers who were too intimidated to have someone more talented than themselves working for them. Rather than safeguarding their own careers, they were guaranteeing the mediocrity of their results.
Prime Shine Express is proud to present The Land of Opportunity. Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Express is proud to recognize the entrepreneur’s ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
25
N e tw o r ki n g A nd R e fe rra l s
Chamber Calendar M a y 2010 13
Coffee Hour: Samaritan Village Location: 7700 Fox Road, Hughson Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am
13
Business-to-Business Trade Show Location: SOS Club, 819 Sunset Avenue Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm Contact (209) 577-5757 for sponsorship opportunities
20
Land Use & Transportation Location: Chamber Conference Room Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am
20
Mixer: Modesto Elks Lodge #1282 Location: 645 Charity Way Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
21
Government Relations Council Location: Chamber Conference Room Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
J u n e 2010 Taking Care of Good Employers
10
Coffee Hour: Stanislaus County Free Library Location: 1500 I Street Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am
17
Land Use & Transportation Location: Chamber Conference Room Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am
17
Mixer: Galletto Ristorante Location: 1101 J Street Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
18
Government Relations Council Location: Chamber Conference Room Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Just Ask.
www.capax.com Group Health
s
Workers Comp
s
1-800-94-CAPAX
s
Home Owners
s
Auto
s
Business Insurance
Giddings, Corby, Hynes
26
Progress 5.2010 Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Lic. # 0144783
Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress 5.2010
27
FUNNY, IT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE A DOCTOR’S OFFICE.
ANNOUNCING A NEW WAY TO CONNECT WITH YOUR DOCTOR. Many of your records such
as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive. To learn more, go to kp.org/centralvalley.
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