PHOTO BY CHRIS LASCANO
Contents
Page 7 Page Page Page Page
TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business News 115 S Golden State Blvd Turlock, CA 95380 209-632-2221 Fax 209-632-5289 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm Sharon Silva President/CEO sharonsilva@turlockchamber.com Amanda Baptista Operations Manager Ext. 104 amanda@turlockchamber.com
8 9 11 12
Page 13 Page 14 Page Page Page Page Page Page
15 16 16 17 18 18
Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22
Cover Stories – Turlock Film Commission Carnegie Arts Center We Are All Marketers… Believe it or Not! About The Turlock Community Theatre City of Turlock Redevelopment Agency Update Downtown Turlock Welcomes Dust Bowl Brewing Co Tracking the City Council Votes Ansel Adams and Bob Kolbrener – Photography in Yosemite Pension Reform Ambassador Highlight Welcome New Members Ribbon Cuttings Turlock Scavenger Medic Alert Foundation: Thank you to our Community Partners Turlock Chamber of Commerce Chamber Champions Thorsen’s Still going Strong in 100th Year Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Leadership Turlock Class of 2012
Sharon Berry Administrative Assistant Ext. 100 Sharonberry@turlockchamber.com Tasha Van Santen Communications Ext. 103 tasha@turlockchamber.com Kassi Fortado Membership/CVB Assistant Ext. 101 kassi@turlockchamber.com
TURLOCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU Desa Cammack Director 115 S. Golden State Blvd. 209-632-2221 Ext. 106 desa@visitturlock.com PAGE 4
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
Chairman Welcome From the President/CEO Of The Board - Mike Lynch The Arts in Many Forms in Turlock
T
he world of arts is good for cultural value for any city, but is also an economic engine for all communities where it exists. Many different groups of people in Turlock have strived over the years to bring different levels of the arts to the community, but there has been a challenge in having housing that would allow the production of even children’s plays and recitals much less any other forms of entertainment. This year, Turlock has been seeing dreams come true. In September, after much hard work and dedication by the Carnegie Arts Foundation, the rebirth of the beautiful Carnegie building along with a new Art Center opened their doors on September 10 . This new center will allow not only printed art to be showcased, but also be a place that will be used for multiple purposes. Turlock now has a facility that will accommodate a very long time need for our community. Another wonderful economic opportunity for Turlock has been established through the effort of Mike Everett, owner of The Creation Lab. Mike recognized that Turlock, being located in the center of California, would be a perfect location for doing film productions. Mike brought the idea to start a Film Commission to the Chamber and the City of Turlock. He saw many opportunities to build a Film Commission as a one-stop resource for production companies that film in a 60 mile radius of Turlock. He knows that production companies need a wide range of crew and vendor services and this would have a positive economic impact on the community. In July and August the first production happened and Film Turlock was created. It is in full swing, under the umbrella of the Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitor Bureau. Turlock Community Theater houses up to 1000 seats for all different types of stage entertainment which range from dance recitals to top name entertainment of singers, comedians and stage plays. These are three wonderful venues that will not only have an economic impact on our community, but will assist in making Turlock a center of entertainment. Turlock is very fortunate to have citizens who have a love for the arts and work hard to bring it to our community for everyone young and old to have an opportunity to enjoy.
Business musings
T
he stock market is acting like a yoyo…with huge dips and jumps almost daily. Analysts give a thousand reasons why, but most end up with worries over Greece and Europe. Isn’t Europe too far away to bother us? Nope, there are trillions of dollars invested in European bank and financial institutions by American banks, hedge funds and mutual funds. Collapse there will hugely complicate problems here. The Super Congress report and its recommendations are due soon. This is the group of select Senators and House members who have to identify trillions of dollars of cuts or revenue increases as part of the debt ceiling deal. If they can come to no agreement, then more Washington economic chaos is likely. California state budget cuts are likely to grow. All evidence indicates that the revenue projections utilized in the recently adopted state budget are unlikely to be met, triggering a round of automatic cuts to make up the difference. K-12 and higher education will be directly and significantly impacted. There is even talk of sizable reductions in teaching days. Turlock is among those cities joining a lawsuit against the state to reclaim its right to utilize redevelopment agency funds. Aside from the issue itself, (in which the city is correct), how do you feel about one branch of our government suing the other? What happened to working things out without having to go to court? —Campaign time is here. Many cities and districts are facing elections this November. A word of caution to all: Take with a very strong grain of salt those candidates who promise to lower taxes or rates, improve services and increase staff and programs, without any revenue increases, all at the same time. As the great science fiction author Robert Heilein wrote in The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress ( and which was also used by economist Milton Friedman), “There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch.”
Mike Lynch 2011 Chair, Turlock Chamber of Commerce
Sharon Silva, President/CEO BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 5
2011 Chamber Board of Directors
Sharon Silva President / CEO
Mike Lynch (Chair) Mike Lynch Consulting
Julio Hallack Marty Jakosa (Past Chair) DBA Concrete by Hallack Foster Farms
Susan Quigley Rabobank
Mike Allen Allen Mortuary
Dean Doerksen Central Ag Products
Andrew Wigglesworth MedicAlert Foundation
Chris Kiriakou Cornerstone Consulting
Milt Richards CSU Stanislaus
Chamber Champions Allen Mortuary Emanuel Medical Center F&M Bank Foster Farms Gemperle Enterprises JKB Energy Lancaster Painting MedicAlert Foundation Rabobank Smith Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc. Turlock Journal Turlock Scavenger/Turlock Recycling Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency PAGE 6
Paul Porter (Chair-Elect) Steve Boyd Winton-Ireland, Turlock Irrigation District Strom & Green
Steve Gemperle Gemperle Enterprises
Larry Smith (Treasurer) Smith Chevrolet Cadillac
Mike Romeo Romeo Medical Clinic
Yubert Envia Foster Farms
Bill Bassitt (Ex-officio Member) Alliance
Lazar Piro Piro Trading International
Steve Talkington Lancaster Painting
Upcoming Events:
December Mixer Turlock Chamber of Commerce
............. Costco Mixer November 15th
Best of Turlock January 20, 2012
.............
.............
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ NOVEMBER 2011
“I
came up here, we had a number of locations we needed for the shoot, we found all of them, they all looked great, we didn’t have to cut back on anything, we didn’t have to settle for anything, it all looked great. And this was the most pleasant surprise of the entire shoot…” Rich Correll The Turlock Film Commission is officially launched with its first Board Meeting on September 28, 2011. It was first brought to the attention of Sharon Silva by Michael Everett about 2 years ago. Through meetings and hard work, the vision is now a reality. The mission of the Turlock Film Commission will be to aid film makers and help optimize the amount of production required to produce a film in Turlock and the surrounding areas that will enhance the local economy through increased employment and tax revenues. The concept of forming the commission is targeted not only at enhancing the local economy but is also intended to promote new economic growth in the area by appealing to a variety of new businesses. Currently the Commission’s board is compiled of community leaders who are actively seeking members. The purpose is to have a broad membership database to target the needs of a mixture of different producers. “The main goal of the Turlock Film Commission is to make the producer’s life easy,” Mike Everett, director of the Turlock Film Commission, said. “If you do that, then they will come back and they will spread the word to others to film in Turlock.”
Sharon Silva President/CEO Turlock Chamber Mike Everett Owner The Creation Lab
Ultimately, the Film Commission would like to produce an annual publication featuring vendors, pictures and information to spread the word down south. In addition, the commission’s goal is to produce premiers featuring local talent with a red carpet show that would publicize the film, community, and eventually work its way into producing a film festival. Another goal of the commission will be to hold educational meetings to inform the community of the film commission’s role, how members can join and the potential impact that can benefit the community.
PHOTO BY CHRIS LASCANO
By Roxana Samano
Recently, two music videos were filmed in Turlock, directed and produced by Rich Correll, the creator of Hannah Montana, That’s So Raven, and many other shows, generating around $40,000 in revenue to the local economy and used over 100 local extras and several local vendors in the process. “A lot of the people who volunteered to come in, and this is in very important positions, wardrobe, hair, props, set dressings, all kinds of stuff... We found the people who volunteered to come in and do this stuff were not only great people because their attitude was great, but they were really good, really really good at what they were doing,” Rich Correll said. “We’d love to use them again….I would definitely recommend Turlock to other producers.” For more information about the Turlock Film Commission contact Michael Everett at mike@thecreationlab.com.
FILM COMMISSION ADVISORY BOARD Dr. Sonny DeMarto Delyn Meyers John Lazar Superintendent Alliance Work Net Mayor Turlock Unified School District Forrest White City of Turlock Phaedra Norton Vito Chiesa Turlock City Council County Supervisor City Attorney City of Turlock
DeeDee D’Adamo Senior Policy Advisor Cardoza Brian Sinclair Instructor MJC
Carnegie Arts Center
S
ince 1916, the beautiful Carnegie Library has proudly stood on North Broadway, serving first as one of 1,600 libraries built by Andrew Carnegie nationwide and later as a community arts center. A devastating fire forced its closure in November 2005, however, supporters rallied to rebuild the Carnegie, guided by a new vision of serving as a regional center for the visual arts. Built by the City of Turlock, the state-of-the-art Carnegie Arts Center opened at four times its original size on September 10, 2011. A climate-controlled gallery makes it possible to present museum-quality exhibitions such as the inaugural exhibition, Ansel Adams CALIFORNIA, a first-ever look at the California works of the internationally known photographer. The exhibit was highly praised and well attended, drawing visitors from throughout California. As a community arts center, the Carnegie is also grounded in the local community where works by area artists are exhibited continuously. Regional artists in the later stages of their careers are honored with a retrospective exhibition, offering the community a chance to honor a life’s work. Local and state-wide juried exhibitions provide a glimpse at BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
CHRIS & SHERRI BRUSSEAU SDB PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY CHRIS LASCANO
Turlock Film Commission
new works being created, while art by school children is frequently seen. In addition to the gallery, the Carnegie boasts a fully equipped, spacious Loft for theatre, performing arts and multi-media presentations as well as classrooms and a variety of lecture and event spaces. As a result, it is able to offer a wide variety of programs and art classes— including dance, theater, painting, drawing, and photography—with more than 25% of its offerings designed for children. Continued on page 8
PAGE 7
We Are All Marketers…
Believe It Or Not!
Y
es, we are all marketers. The things we write, say or do have a bigger impact than we know. A big part of the sale of any product, service or even a city is the marketing behind it. Years ago, it was word of mouth, newspaper, radio or television commercials. Now it’s also Twitter, Facebook, Yahoo, Google, and a litany of other online, cyber-space venues. Venues that can make or break a sale. So the question is: how do we best market our product? At the Alliance, we are charged with marketing Stanislaus County. Companies looking to expand in California or the Central Valley, or existing local businesses needing help, are our target market. Our dilemma sometimes comes down to how to market the county and its cities most effectively. We know the vast appeal this area has to offer, but it is making it known to the outside world that Turlock, or the other eight cities within the county are a great place to call home. What venue will have the most impact? What fact about our county or city will elicit the most interest? Where will the limited dollars available have the biggest impact?
Carnegie Arts Center -
So remember, when you are going about your normal day, you may encounter someone here on a fact finding mission, judging Turlock against other cities in California or other states. They may ask you “How do you like living here”? Your answer (in your capacity as our greatest resource) may be the reason they decide to stay! Delyn Meyers Senior Manager of Economic Development (And a Turlock resident)
Continued from page 7
There are many ways to become involved in the new Carnegie: see the exhibits, participate in programs, become a member or volunteer. Additional options include renting the facility, sponsoring exhibits and programs, or joining as a Founder to enhance the endowment. All are appreciated.
PAGE 8
Prospective businesses talk to local businesses. They also talk to people they meet while here looking; the hotel clerk, the waiter, some guy at the gas station or random people they encounter while visiting, and everything they hear forms a picture of the area they are considering ...the possible future home of their company. Within the City of Turlock (and the county in general), our greatest marketing resource is our citizens. Business owners, employees, students, long-time residents, new residents; every single one of us is a living, breathing advertisement and marketer for our area.
The Carnegie Arts Center will always be a place to come together to enjoy art, share experiences with family and friends, find creative stimulation, and learn more about art. Exciting exhibits and varied programs help to guarantee that there will always be something new to see and experience there.
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
About The Turlock Community Theatre
T
he Turlock Community Theatre is a central feature of the main grand old building of Turlock High School. Built in 1925, it is one of the most important historical resources of the region and is included in the National Register of Historic Buildings. Tragedy struck in 1979 when the Theatre was severely damaged by a fire and remained a dormant, unusable space in the middle of a functioning high school for years. The cost of restoration prohibited use of the Theatre until a community based organization formed to begin the process of fundraising and restoration. Today the Theatre is once again a cultural center for the residents of Stanislaus County and the surrounding Valley region. Since its restoration the 1000 seat Theatre has done well to fulfill its mission of bringing culture and arts to the heart of the San Joaquin Valley by presenting an exciting season of national touring artists each year as well as providing a professional venue for use by local performing arts groups, dance studios and numerous community organizations.
2011-12 Season Penn & Teller Friday, September 23, 2011 Lindsey Buckingham Tuesday, October 18, 2011 Jackson Browne: Solo Acoustic Friday, November 11, 2011 Wynonna Saturday, November 12, 2011 The Manhattan Transfer Christmas Wednesday, December 21, 2011 Damn Yankees: The Home-Run Broadway Musical Thursday, February 16, 2012 In The Mood: A 1940’s Musical Review Thursday, March 8, 2012 Michael Cavanaugh: The Songs of Billy Joel, Elton John & More Friday, March 23, 2012
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 9
All funeral and cemetery arrangements are cared for in one convenient location. STATE OF THE ART FUNERAL HOME TRADITIONAL CHAPEL WITH 400 SEAT CAPACITY LUSH & SCENIC GROUNDS IN HOUSE FLOWER SHOP
FD 1843 COA 114
Phone: (209) 632-9111 • www.turlockmemorialpark.com 425 North Soderquist Road • P.O. Box 1666 • Turlock, California 95381 PAGE 10
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Update
The City of Turlock has appealed the DOF estimate and will find out by October 15th if the appeal is granted. Once the actual amount of payment due is determined the Turlock Redevelopment Agency can assess the benefit of keeping the Agency or winding down the Agency as prescribed by law. The California Redevelopment Association (CRA) and the League of California Cities have filed suit on behalf of the close to 400 redevelopment agencies in the State of California. In their petition the CRA and League contend that the legislation passed is unconstitutional because it violates Proposition 22 which was passed by the voters in November, 2010. The effect of the legislation is to achieve an unconstitutional result – use of redevelopment agencies’ funds to benefit the State and other units of government by way of an unconstitutional means – the
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
threat of dissolution of redevelopment agencies. On August 11, 2011 the California Supreme Court announced it would hear California Redevelopment Association v. Matosantos challenging the constitutionality of AB 1X 26 and AB 1X 27. The Court set an expedited briefing schedule in order to make a decision before January 15, 2012, when the first payments are due. It is expected that oral arguments will be held in late 2011. The Court also issued a partial stay; however, all redevelopment agencies are prohibited from entering into any contracts or initiating any new actions.
PAGE 11
PHOTOS BY TASHA VAN SANTEN
T
he Governor’s proposed budget adopted by the Legislature in June and signed by the Governor on June 29th provided for the elimination of redevelopment agencies in California unless the redevelopment agencies pay a “voluntary fee” to the local Auditor-Controller. Based on a formula designed to generate $ 1.7 billion statewide, the Department of Finance (DOF) has calculated the payment required of the Turlock Redevelopment Agency to be $ 3,187,304. Staff has calculated the amount to be considerably less based on more recent funding information and taking into account the principal and interest payment required due to the recent issuance of bonds for construction of the Public Safety Facility. Staff estimates that using the State formula Turlock’s share of the payment would be $1,599,681.
Downtown Turlock Welcomes . . .
D
ust Bowl Brewing Company’s Tap Room officially opened its doors on the corner of Main and Broadway on August 1 to a crowd of thirsty customers. Owners Brett Tate and Brett Honoré are glad their intuition was right: Turlock and surrounding communities need more places to go for good beer and food in a cool atmosphere. The Tap Room draws locals as well as out-of-towners who follow the microbrew industry. “There’s a movement out there toward beer tasting much like the emergence of wine tasting in the 90s,” shared Tate. “Our Tap Room serves as somewhat of a “beer lab” so we can test market our different styles to determine the
PAGE 12
best beers to launch at the retail level. Not only does the Tap Room give our company better brand exposure, I believe it adds economic vitality to downtown Turlock as well as community pride.” The Tap Room serves around 12 of its own beers, which vary depending on what brewmaster Don Oliver has handcrafted at the industrialwestside Turlock brewery. Guest taps, specialty bottled beers, ciders, wine and sodas round out the beverages. The food menu is affordable and offers a nice range of classic pub fare including fried okra, sweet potato fries, sliders, fish-n-chips, sandwiches and salads. The Tap Room offers indoor and patio dining complemented by rustic yet chic furnishings and oversized Dust Bowl era images. You can get a growler (64 oz. bottle) to-go and bring it back for refills. Gift cards are available. The Tap Room plans to offer beer tasting and pairing events in the future. Hours: Mon-Thurs, 4pm-10pm, Fri-Sat, 11am-11pm and Sun 10am-8pm. For more information, call the Tap Room at 209-250-2042 or visit www.dustbowlbrewing.com.
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
City Council Votes Look Forward By Chris Kiriakou
D
Mary Jackson
John Lazar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
1/11/11 1/25/11 2/2/11 2/8/11 3/22/11 3/29/11 5/24/11 6/14/11 7/12/11 7/12/11 7/12/11 8/9/11 8/9/11 9/27/11
Address Big Box stores in Gen. Plan Update Oppose eliminating RDAs and Enterprise Zones Approve Bond Issue for $29M Public Safety Facility Accept DHS Grant for $523,692 for 3 P S Employees Approve Turlock Partnership Incentives Program Direction of Gen. Plan, continue with Preferred Plan Denial of neighbor’s appeal of Mi Pueblo Market. Approve the 2011/12 FY Budget Implement SB2 Zone Change for homeless shelters Approval city labor agreements for FY 2011/12 Approve $150 k for Business Incentive Program Appeal of Redevelop. Agency “Voluntary Chg” calc. Oppose proposed CA Senate redistricting boundaries Participate in Stanislaus Regional Water Authority
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y N N Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
N Y Y N Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
15
9/27/11
Relax Turlock Fire Code to be consistent with Calif. road access requirements
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
MEETING COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Forrest White
Bill DeHart
considered by the Council and votes by member.deficit spending along with significant expense contingencies. Amy Bublak
uring the third quarter of 2011 the Turlock City Council focused on a number of forward thinking business issues. Progress was made in the areas of addressing the needs of the homeless and needy, business incentives, redistricting, redevelopment, drinking water supply and relief from over reaching City codes. Following is the 2011 recap, through September, of the major business issues
1.
Direction to staff to review the Discount Super Store Ordinance limiting size and include it in the General Plan update. 2. The Governor has proposed eliminating funding to Redevelopment Agencies and Enterprise Zones. This has been a source of funding for business and improvement in Turlock as a whole. 3. The Public Safety Facility involves the construction of a new police station and support facilities to an area near the Carnegie Art Center on N. Broadway. 4. Accept a Department of Homeland Security grant to hire and fund three firefighters for a three year period including restrictions on reducing the existing level of public safety employees. 5. Approve an incentive program for new startup business in Turlock. 6. Consider a change of land use priorities in the General Plan Update including infill, the SE area of Turlock and an area in the NW. A change in the Preferred Land Use Plan would have cost $40,000 and eliminate a full consideration of the options prior to the environmental impact report being prepared. 7. Denial of an appeal by neighbors objecting to the renovation of 104,000 Sq. Ft. of retail space to accommodate a full service 36,000 Sq. Ft. Mexican grocery store at W. Main and Soderquist. 8. Approval of the 2011/12 Budget with a $3.9M deficit, decreasing revenues and increasing costs, and several levels of uncertainty. 9. SB2 requires Cities to implement a zone in which a homeless shelter can be sited through an administrative process, subject to requirements, rather than the Conditional Use Permit. 10. Renegotiated labor agreements resulting in employees contributing 9% to their pension, reduced costs to City and reduced withdrawal from City reserves to $1.9 million. 11. Approved a $150,000 budget for the business incentive program where the City will provide an incentive up to $1,000 for new businesses to be established in vacant buildings. Continued on page 19
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 13
Ansel Adams and Bob Kolbrener- Photographing in Yosemite
O
n Sunday, November 20, First Street Gallery, in collaboration with The Carnegie Arts Center, will present “Ansel Adams and Bob Kolbrener Photographing in Yosemite.” The event begins at 2 p.m. with a lecture by photographer Bob Kolbrener and featuring a short film by Virginia Adams. After Bob’s presentation there will be a show of Kolbrener photographs and a reception at First Street Gallery, 226 North First Street (walking distance from the Carnegie). This event is free and open to the public! Bob has been a guest speaker for the Yosemite Association, and is very informative and entertaining. This is an event you won’t want to miss.
The next spring I was again in Yosemite. This time, however, I was a student at the Ansel Adams Spring Workshop. During the next eight years I attended Ansel’s workshops in Yosemite as well as in his Carmel Home. In 1977 I was invited to be an instructor, along with Yousuf Karsh, at Ansel’s Yosemite workshop. More than thirty years ago I made the commitment to continue in the tradition of “straight” photography; I have never wavered from this, and the Yosemite experience continues to be the cornerstone for all of my western excursions.” Bob Kolbrenner
PAGE 14
PHOTO BY BOB KOLBRENER
“My pursuit of fine art photography took a major leap forward when, in 1968, having been an amateur photographer for five years; I innocently wandered into Best Studio, now the Ansel Adams Gallery of Yosemite National Park. Before me in all of their glory were six Ansel Adams photographs of epic size and imagery! Burning incense and classical music set the tone for an experience that I can easily recall today with exactitude.
BOB KOLBRENER AND ANSEL ADAMS
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PENSION REFORM: LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES LEGAL ANALYSIS By Stephen R. Qualls
W
e’ve all heard about the pension problems that are facing local government. The League of California Cities Board of Directors adopted a strategic goal for 2011 related to Sustainable and Secure Public Pension Systems. To further this goal, the board further directed staff to do a detailed legal analysis to examine the ability of public agencies to make changes to the pension benefits of both current and future employees. The legal analysis concludes that: • A public employee’s pension constitutes an element of compensation; • A vested contractual right to a pension benefit accrues upon acceptance of employment; and • Eliminating this pension right will impair an employer’s contractual obligation to the employee. The analysis further concludes that a vested pension benefit may be modified in three circumstances: • When both parties agree to the modification; • When prior to the time of retirement, the employer makes a reasonable modification to maintain the integrity of the pension system; and • When the terms of the pension plan or “contract” provide that modifications may be made. The League’s Pension Reform Legal Analysis can be accessed at the League’s Pension Reform Center: http://www.cacities.org/index.jsp?zone=locc&previewStory=28435
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 15
AMBASSADORS Stephanie Talkington
S
tephanie was born and raised in Turlock, a high school graduate of Turlock Christian. She has been working in the family business since she was a junior in high school, helping run Mainly Bagels and doing payroll for Lancaster Painting. Stephanie moved to San Diego her sophomore year of college and received her AA in Business Administration from Southwestern Community College. Two years ago she moved back to Turlock and started working as the Office Manager of Lancaster Painting. Since moving back to Turlock she has become involved in the Chamber by becoming an Ambassador and by being part of Leadership Turlock class of 2012. She is a single mother of a 3 year old daughter and plans on getting more involved in the community as time allows.
New Members All Star Trophies and Signs 1672 Carnegie St Turlock, CA 209-668-1865 Alpha Poultry & Livestock Equipment, Inc. 1350 W Main St Turlock, CA (209) 632-8831 Curbside Driving School 5830 Swanson Rd Denair, CA (209) 485-3699 Envy Fine Clothing 227 E Main St Turlock, CA (209) 632-2752 Exit Realty Consultants 600 E Main St Turlock, CA (209) 678-5747 King’s Way 581 N Tully Rd Turlock, CA (209) 667-7736
PAGE 16
PMZ – Agent Jaime SilvaEsteves 1500 Fulkerth Rd Turlock, CA (209) 585-5635 R.E. Construction (209) 595-7467 Springleaf Financial Services 729 N Golden State Blvd Turlock, CA (209) 669-6853
Troy Old
T
roy Old is the Business Development Representative for Teichert Construction. Teichert is a General Engineering Contractor, specializing in grading and paving for roads and highways. As their BD Rep, Troy is responsible for maintaining client relations, both public and private. Prior to joining Teichert, Troy spent 23 years working for Groeniger & Company. Groeniger is a wholesale waterworks distributor, selling underground pipe, valves and fittings. Between the two companies, he has nearly 30 years of experience in the construction industry. Troy and Teresa will celebrate 20 years of marriage next May. Following Troy’s parents, who moved here in the 1990’s, Troy and family have lived in Turlock since 2000. They are proud to call Turlock their home. Troy and Teresa are the proud parents of three boys; Bailey (13) is in 8th grade at Dutcher, Connor (11) is in 6th grade at Julien and Grant (7) is a 2nd grader at Walnut. “It’s a little crazy with kids at 3 different schools, but with the help of friends, grandparents and an organized wife, they all get to where they are supposed to be”, Troy commented. All 3 boys play soccer for TYSA and the older two play golf. Younger brother Grant occasionally hits the driving range. Troy enjoys playing golf as well and was recently told by his wife that “you need to play more golf.” Troy noted, “I am sure I took that comment out of context, but I don’t want to let her down.” Troy and his boys have a traditional week long camping and trout fishing trip to Bridgeport every June. In July, the family spends a week in Lake Tahoe. Most of the week is spent sitting on the beach. Troy is a 2009 graduate of the Leadership Turlock. He has also been known to attend a mixer or two. “I guess after being a fixture at several mixers, I was asked to become a Chamber Ambassador”, Troy observed. “I look forward to seeing you at one of the many mixers and/or fun events put on by the Chamber.”
Stanislaus County Affordable Housing Corp 511 Downey Ave Modesto, CA (209) 574-1155 Turlock Residential 1101 E Tuolumne Rd Turlock, CA (209) 667-8409 United Cerebral Palsy 959 E Monte Vista Ave Turlock, CA (209) 577-2122
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
RIBBON CUTTINGS
School g in iv r D e id Curbs
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 17
Turlock Scavenger
by Roxana Samano
F
or over 75 years, the Marchant family has owned and operated the many facets that are the Turlock Scavenger Company.
PHOTO BY TASHA VAN SANTEN
PHOTO BY TASHA VAN SANTEN
The Turlock Scavenger Company started picking up waste in 1935 and recycling in the early 50’s which was followed by the construction of the first transfer station in 1967. In 1992 the residential three cart automation pickup began and continues to be used today. Currently the family operation is compiled of three separate entities and corporations that have created a niche by picking up, recycling and transporting commodities. Each of the three entities specializes in a particular area that helps the company to remain a pioneer in the industry. Turlock Scavenger Company picks up waste and comingled recyclable materials. Turlock Recycling Company operates a buyback center to purchase commodities which sorts and bails the commodities into separate and distinct items to be sold. The Turlock Transfer Company processes the waste and delivers the loads to the landfill operated by Stanislaus County and the Waste to Energy Plant. The future remains bright for the family owned and operated company as the business continues to modernize itself with the most recent update expected for completion mid-October. Today the company is run by Alan Marchant, President, Greg Marchant, Vice-President, and Lee Marchant, Secretary/ Treasurer.
MEDICALERT FOUNDATION: THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS!
M
edicAlert Foundation wishes to thank our community partners for supporting our Health and Safety Fair this past month. With the assistance and backing of over 40 partners ranging from Foster Farms and Winton-Ireland Strom and Green to Emanuel Medical Center and Lancaster Painting, MedicAlert was able to provide over two-thousand families with free health screenings, car seat checks, safety demonstrations, kid-friendly activities, and lunch. As we celebrate MedicAlert’s 55th anniversary, we sought out ways to educate the public and give back to our local community. We were grateful and frankly amazed by the outpouring of support we received from local organizations for this event.
“MedicAlert Foundation’s mission is to protect and save lives by serving people in a time of need.” – Dr. Marion Collins, 1956 For 55 years, Turlock has served as the home for MedicAlert’s international cause to protect and save lives. What started as a small volunteer-based organization from Dr. Marion Collins’ family living room, now serves more than 4 million members worldwide, and we believe that MedicAlert’s growth in no small part is attributable to the community in which it was founded. Turlock has been a wonderful home. Organizing last month’s event was one of our many efforts over the past year to simply say “thank you.” In looking towards the future, MedicAlert will be searching for other outreach and educational opportunities that support our local families, and we are always searching out opportunities to partner with local businesses and community organizations to further the health and wellbeing of our community. Once again, thank you Turlock for your support of MedicAlert’s mission over the past 55 years. Andrew B. Wigglesworth President & CEO, MedicAlert Foundation PAGE 18
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
Turlock Chamber of Commerce Chamber
T
he Chamber of Commerce presents the Champion program which is designed for the Turlock Chamber’s top companies. The goal is to assist our major supporters in their budgeting process and to allow them to identify in advance which programs meet the individual goals for sponsorship opportunities. Chamber Champions make it possible for the Turlock Chamber to maintain its position as the independent voice of the business community. In addition, the Turlock Chamber will only solicit your participation one time during the year. The requirements for Chamber Champion status is a minimum of $800 Distinguished Supporter Investment, a minimum of $4,000 in any combination of sponsorship levels and combined total of at least $4,800. Each company recognized as a Chamber Champion will receive special recognition throughout the year. They will consist of recognition at the Best of Turlock Awards Dinner, a special
Champions
advertisement recognizing Champions in the Business News publication, a plaque displayed in the Turlock Chamber of Commerce office listing all Chamber Champions, recognition in all Chamber event programs and recognition in all Chamber publications. The program spotlights companies dedicated to the growth of the Chamber and the economic health of our community. Chamber Champions are among the most influential companies and organizations in the Greater Turlock Area and have positioned themselves to help maintain a healthy active Chamber so we may compete and be heard at the federal, state and local political levels. In return, Chamber Champion members receive the highest visibility at Chamber events and through various forms of Chamber correspondence. For more information on becoming a Chamber Champion, please contact the Chamber at (209) 6322221.
Chamber Champions Sponsorship Opportunities • Distinguished Supporter Investment • Best of Turlock Awards Dinner • Business Leadership Summit • Ag Scholarship Luncheon • Turlock Chamber Golf Tournament • Annual Membership Luncheon • Party Under the Stars • CEO’s Roundtable • New Member Orientation Breakfast • Leadership Turlock • Legislative Affairs • Advertising Opportunity
City Council Votes Look Forward Continued from page 13 12. Appeal State calculation of “Voluntary Charge” of $3.2 million related to the possible continuation of the Turlock Redevelopment Agency as a result of ABX1 26 and ABX1 27. 13. Oppose the Citizen’s Redistricting Commission State Senate Boundaries that include Turlock in the foothill District 8 rather than San Joaquin Valley District 12. 14. Participate in a Joint Powers Agency with Modesto and Ceres to provided drinking water using surface water from the Tuolumne River. 15. Relax Turlock Fire Code requirements to match state requirements regarding access roads as recommended by the local Development Collaborative Advisory Committee. The City Council addressed several business related issues during the third quarter with overall positive results in the areas of budget, business stimulus and streamlining of City code requirements. The last quarter of 2011 will be one focused on future planning for the Turlock City Council. We can expect discussions on the agenda ranging from how to proceed, or not, with the Turlock Redevelopment Agency, continued General Plan Updated discussions, and an internal Strategic Plan document for the City organization addressing goals for services and operations.
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 19
STILL GOING STRONG IN 100TH YEAR By Roxana Samano
blessed with many outstanding employees who have taken care of the company for 100 years. These people are the true face of Thorsen’s as they have maintained our name and taken care of our loyal customers. It is their technical expertise, their ongoing relationships with customers and the overall customer satisfaction goal we all have that keeps Thorsen’s going strong.” Thorsen’s offers a wide variety of services which include, plumbing, solar, HVAC, duct / dryer vent cleaning, fire sprinklers, home insulation, appliance repair, custom sheet metal work and a parts counter.
1958 Golden Jubilee Celebration
M
any businesses today face the daunting reality of possible foreclosure and are met with the reality of walking away from a dream. Thorsen’s Inc. is one of the elite few businesses in the area to keep their vision alive for 100 years and is the oldest continuously owned and operated business in Turlock. The dream began on November 11, 1911 (11-11-11) by Andy Thorsen when he started his plumbing business as a one-man shop in a shed attached to his first home in Turlock. Andy is credited as being the first plumber in this area to bring inside plumbing to new homes and the first business in Turlock to utilize a horseless carriage for his business. Throughout the early years, Andy Thorsen met many hard times including the great depression, WWII, the death of his beloved wife Bertha and the daily challenges of growing the business he started. Through all of this, the company prospered and was eventually passed to his two sons.
“We are competitive with our pricing, but we do need to be profitable to remain in business. If customers have any problems with our workmanship, we come out at no charge to make it right. We stand behind our work and the products we provide to our customers,” Pitau said. Although Thorsen’s has not been untouched by the recession, it has discovered ways to succeed and meet the needs of loyal customers by diversifying and setting the business apart from others. Currently, the company holds nine contractor licenses with the State of California. They offer commercial and residential design build along with plumbing and HVAC service with 24/7 emergency service. Today, the company is owned by Craig Pitau, Dr. Donald Thorsen, Carl Thorsen and Judy Thorsen Enchelmayer. For more information about Thorsen’s Inc. visit www.thorsensinc.com or call (209) 632-3194.
Andy Thorsen’s sons, Rodney and Andy Jr. were partners in the business and in 1965 Rodney took over as President and sole owner. The dream expanded during this time period and the name changed to “Thorsen’s Plumbing & Air Conditioning Inc.” In 1977, Rodney further expanded the dream by purchasing 20 acres and moving his company to a new 19,500 sq. ft. building at 2310 North Walnut Road. Rodney managed his business until 1984 when his youngest son Norman took the reins. In 1988, Norman was involved in a serious automobile accident that left him quadriplegic. Norman was able to work with Rodney on a limited basis managing the business for the next 14 years. In 2002 Craig Pitau was asked to join Thorsen’s and was given the opportunity to become a partner. According to Pitau, the company’s success for so many years has been attributed to past and present employees. “We have been PAGE 20
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
CVB Offers Community Events Financial Support
T
he Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) offers sponsorship dollars to community events through the Community Activity Funding application. Each year we review requests and based on the economic impact of an event on Turlock’s economy or its ability to boost the quality of life in Turlock funds will be granted; contingent on available funds for sponsorship that year.
The CVB offers funding for community activities that strengthen the positive economic impact of the visitor industry on our community. The intent of this funding is to support local events by helping them grow and promote Turlock. The CVB Advisory Committee will review and approve all applications for funding. In general, the committee prefers to support projects geared towards increasing the length of our visitors’ stay and the degree to which our visitors are immersed in our local business community during their stay. The Advisory Committee will accept proposals from both nonprofit and for-profit entities. How to apply for funds in 2012: • Each funding request should be received by the last Friday of December 2011 in order to be reviewed at the January 2012 Advisory Committee’s regular meeting. All funds will be allocated for the entire year at that meeting. •
Applicant must submit one (1) neatly typed or printed copy of the funding application to the Convention & Visitors Bureau Director taking into account the Advisory Committee’s deadlines.
•
The economic impact section of the application must be completely filled out and a copy of the current event budget must be included with all applications.
•
A mandatory Event Summary Report is required and due 60 days after the completion of the event.
•
CVB Banner(s) can be displayed at your project or event. Printed materials and public notices displaying contributors, sponsors, or donations must acknowledge the support of the Turlock Convention & Visitors Bureau, i.e. “This project made possible in part by the financial support of the Turlock Convention & Visitors Bureau.” Display of the CVB’s logo on promotional materials, and event website is also appreciated.
The Application is available for download on VisitTurlock.org website’s Event Submission tab or you can contact the CVB director at (209) 632-2221. CVB Staff is available Monday through Friday 10AM – 4PM to assist you in completing your application. The CVB reserves the right to contribute funds at the discretion of the Advisory Committee.
Events Sponsored in 2011 • • • • • • • •
4th of July Fireworks Assyrian Central Valley Centennial CA State Team Roping Finals Carnegie Arts Fundraiser - Gallo Arts Center Costco 5k Fun Run/Walk CSUS Athletics & Special Events Independence Day Parade Kool Kars for Charity
• Stanislaus County Fair • Stanislaus County Fair Centennial Celebration • Turlock Christmas Parade • Turlock Community Theatre 2011/2012 Season • Turlock Lake Road Race
Officially it’s Fall! Which means Turlock is coming brimming with great community events!
T
he CVB promotes Turlock and community events are a big benefit to Turlock living. We’re a great community that celebrates our small town roots. From Downtown Trick or Treating to Church Harvest Festivals Turlock is brimming with great events over the next three months.
The CVB doesn’t just use our community calendar, facebook, and twitter accounts to promote events. We post events on a kiosk at the Vintage Fair Mall, send our events to Stanislaus Magazine and many other publications that request Turlock’s events. We also post the larger events on the VisitCalifornia.com website; which has a chance of being picked up by VIA magazine for additional free promotion. Not to mention our e-blasts to over 4,000 subscribers. All that coverage is a free service of the CVB. The only drawback is the only way we can promote an event is if you tell us what’s happening. If your company, church, theater production company, organization, club, or nonprofit is hosting an event in Turlock, open to the public, share your information with the CVB and we’ll help you spread the word. A free service that can work for you and help you sell tickets and/or boost attendance. Email desa@visitturlock.org or call (209) 632-2221 to share your event details.
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 21
Alison Allen Allen Mortuary
Amy Curd Turlock School District
Ann Osugi Bloodsource
Betty Julian McCormick Barstow
Charlotte Carlberg Tri Counties Bank
Debbi Agresti PMZ Real Estate
Dianne Bettencourt Oak Valley Community Bank
Lina Ericsen Yosemite Farm Credit
Lindsey Lundquist Emanuel Medical Center
Loren Hayes Winton-Ireland Strom & Green
Lucy Virgen Bank of the West
Stephanie Talkington Lancaster Painting
Welcome CLASS OF
Timothy Maggiore Turlock Irrigation District
PAGE 22
Scott Esco Ameriprise Financial
Amanda Baptista Turlock Chamber of Commerce
Eric Jergenson Jaureguy’s Paint & Decorating
2012
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
BUSINESS NEWS « NOVEMBER 2011
PAGE 23