President of the United States OBAMA
United States Senator California
ROMNEY
YOUR VOTE COUNTS
House of Representatives 10th District DENHAM
EMKEN
FEINSTEIN
California State Assembly -12th Dixrict MATEO
HERNANDE
Z
OLSEN
Turlock City Council - 2 Members ALVARADO
BUBLAK
JACKSON
NASCIMENTO
W.A.C.E. AWARD WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Contents
W.A.C.E. Award Winning Publication of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce
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
Tasha Van Santen Director Communications/Development Ext. 104 tasha@turlockchamber.com
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Cover Story It’s Voting Time!
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Central Valley Job Fair
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Turlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealership is Back!
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Business Empowerment Forum
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New CSU Stanislaus President Champions Community Partnerships
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City of Turlock
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California SBDC If You Want to Help a Vet, Hire a Vet
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Considering November’s Ballot Measures
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A Quiet Summer at City Hall
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Ambassadors of the Quarter
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Welcome New Members
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Mixer, Chamber and Ribbon Cutting Events
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Leadership Class of 2013
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Reflections on Wisconsin
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Dental Spa, Antoine Varani, D.D.S.
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Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Promotes Community Events
Patricia Baron Operations Ext. 103 patricia@turlockchamber.com Sharon Berry Administrative Assistant Ext. 100 sharonberry@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 « FALL 2012
Welcome
From the President/CEO
Go To The Polls and Vote This November! s an American citizen, this is a very important time in our country and our communities to select the leaders that will represent us as they make decisions that will impact our lives and livelihood. I believe it to be a privilege to be able to cast a vote and have a say in whom the people empower to be our voice as decisions are being decided for our economic stability and the
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lifestyles we live. As the stewards of a strong business climate, it is the responsibility of the Chamber of Commerce to insure that the interest of business is being represented in the political decisions of our community leaders; therefore, the Chamber has made a decision to support pro-business candidates for a better Turlock. The question is frequently asked “Why does the Chamber get into politics and do endorsements of local candidates”? The answer is actually simple; the Turlock Action for Business Political Action Committee (TAB PAC) and the Chamber Board of Directors have devoted time and effort into making the Turlock Chamber of Commerce “the voice of Turlock business.” The Chamber is dedicated to supporting business retention and growth within our city and fostering pro-business public policies which advance the economic agenda of our region. One of the major goals outlined since 2006, when the Chamber Board of Directors made a decision to be proactive legislatively and to increase the advocacy efforts on behalf of Chamber members. This mandate includes steps to strengthen business presence in local government and encourage changes in public policy that affect chamber members.
Chairman
Of The Board - Paul Porter
Everyone Has A Voice!
We are moving in the right direction e are approaching that magical time of year when signs pop up all over town in every shape, size, and color. I am not talking about the preChristmas sales that start in September; I am referring to the election. Every year voters are presented with a myriad of choices from ballot measures and propositions to local, state, and federal elected office.
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All of these things have an impact on our quality of life and also shapes how we do things in Turlock. The best thing about the election is that everyone has a voice and can be heard. To not cast your vote and then complain about the outcome is taking the easy way out. If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. It is inherent that everyone exercises their right to vote and have a say in how we shape our community and also our country. I would encourage everyone to become familiar with the candidates and issues. On the local level, there are many Meet and Greet sessions with the candidates, as well as, forums which offer a look at all the candidates and their platforms. The most important thing is to make your vote counts and be an active participant. See you at the polls…
Paul Porter Winton-Ireland Strom & Green
Our elected officials must address the concerns of local businesses. Through this effort, the Chamber can act as a consensus builder, expressing the concerns of the business community to our elected officials. The following questions must be answered: how to improve development in Turlock; how to deal with the homeless; how to assist public safety to keep Turlock a safe place to live while developing a plan to keep public employee benefit and pensions affordable; and how to afford fixing city streets? These questions need to be answered by the leaders we elect. I ask for each of you to go to the polls and vote this November for President of the United States, Congress, State Legislators and our local officials. It is up to the citizens of this country to put the right people in office.
Sharon Silva President/CEO BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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2012 Chamber Board of Directors
Sharon Silva President / CEO
Paul Porter (Chair) Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green
Mike Romeo (Chair Elect) Mike Lynch (Past Chair) Steve Gemperle (Treasurer) Mike Lynch Consulting Gemperle Enterprises Romeo Medical Clinic
Ashour Badal CSU Stanislaus
Dianna Bettencourt Oak Valley Community Bank
Dean Doerksen Central Ag Products
Yubert Envia Foster Farms
Julio Hallack DBA Concrete by Hallack
Lazar Piro Piro Trading International
Susan Quigley Rabobank
Larry Smith Smith Chevrolet Cadillac
Steve Talkington Lancaster Painting
Andrew Wigglesworth MedicAlert Foundation
2012 TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF
Sharon Silva CEO/President IOM, Institute for Organization Management, University of Arizona Bachelor Arts Organizational Communication
Tasha Van Santen Director Communications/ Development Bachelor Science Business CSU Stanislaus
Patricia Baron Operations Bachelor Science Business/Accounting MPA In Progress CSU Stanislaus
Chamber Champions Allen Mortuary • Emanuel Medical Center F&M Bank • Gemperle Enterprises JKB Energy • Lancaster Painting MedicAlert Foundation Oak Valley Community Bank Rabobank • Smith Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc. Turlock Journal Turlock Scavenger/Turlock Recycling Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency PAGE 6
Sharon Berry Administrative Assistant Bachelor Science Education Pacific University
Mike Allen Allen Mortuary
Steven Padilla Sunopta
Chris Kiriakou Cornerstone Consulting
Bill Bassitt (Ex-officio Member) Alliance
Marty Jakosa (Past Chair) Foster Farms
Kassi Fortado Membership / CVB Assistant Merced College
Desa Cammack Director Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy Graduate
Upcoming Events: Ameriprise Financial ~ September 18th Creative Alternatives ~ October 16th Costco ~ November 20th
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
´´´ IT’S VOTING TIME! ´´´
By Mike Lynch
his election gives California and Turlock voters a myriad of opportunities to impact our quality of life, both directly and indirectly. We are electing a President, a Congress, and State Legislature, City Council and approving or disapproving a myriad of propositions dealing with taxes, financing of campaigns, the death penalty, labeling of food products and auto insurance.
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BY THE WAY, IF YOU DON’T VOTE, THE BALLOT OF SOMEONE WHO DISAGREES WITH YOU ON A CANDIDATE OR ISSUE COUNTS TWICE AS MUCH. REMEMBER THAT WHEN YOU ARE CONSIDERING NOT BOTHERING TO FILL OUT THE ENTIRE BALLOT BECAUSE IT IS TOO LONG…OR NOT EVEN GOING TO THE POLLS BECAUSE THERE MAY BE LINE.
In Turlock, our ballots will include contests for: PPRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (Obama or Romney) PUnited States Senator, representing California (Emken or Feinstein) PMember, United States House of Representatives for the 10th District which includes Turlock (Denham or Hernandez) PMember, California State Assembly for the 12th District which includes Turlock (Mateo or Olsen) PTwo members of the Turlock City Council (Alvarado, Bublak, Jackson and Nascimento) PProp 30: Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act (Governor’s tax plan) PProp 31: Government Performance and Accountability Act (Government reform) PProp 32: Paycheck Protection Initiative (prohibits unions using payroll deductions funds for political purposes) PProp 33: The Automobile Insurance Discount Act PProp 34: End the Death Penalty Initiative PProp 35: Californians Against Sexual Exploitation Act (almost everybody supports this) PProp 36: Revises the 1994 Three Strikes Law (changes the law to require the life sentence only when the third strike is serious or a violent felony)
PProp 37: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified organisms (untimely, unscientific and anti-competitive restrictions on California agriculture and food processing)
PProp 38: Our Children, Our Future (Really? Would increase state income tax by billons annually with all revenue going to schools.)
PProp 39: “Close out of state corporate loopholes” PProp 40: Overturn recently adopted state senate district maps (the one that put Turlock in a district that runs from Sacramento County in the north to Death Valley in the South)
The men and women elected to office, and the propositions that are passed (or not passed) in November will impact us directly in Turlock.
REMEMBER, IF YOUR VOTE ISN’T CAST, THE VOTE OF SOMEONE WHO DISAGREES WITH YOU COUNTS DOUBLE! So, on November 6th, it’s about action, dedication, innovation and a fresh perspective (to steal the words of our city council candidates).
PLEASE VOTE. IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT! BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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Nearly Two-Thousand . . .
ATTEND CENTRAL VALLEY JOB FAIR
urlock, CA –Job seekers as far away as Chico and Fresno registered for the Central Valley Job Fair hosted by U.S. Representative Jeff Denham and facilitated by the Alliance. A few eager job seekers showed up at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds two hours early wanting to be the first to talk to the 47 participating employers.
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Registrants received an official guide to the job fair at check-in which mapped out each employer location and prospective job openings. By 1:00, several employers had run out of applications and had to replenish. "We found some good, solid, qualified candidates", one employer told the Alliance. That same sentiment echoed throughout most of the companies participating. Congressman Denham was on hand for part of the day, talking one-on-one with employers and visiting individually with job seekers. Individuals seeking work endured long lines to speak with employers, but many expressed appreciation for the opportunity to talk to companies who had real jobs, and were hiring right away! For more information, contact Alisha Cruz at cruza@stanalliance.com or call 209-567-4644.
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About The Alliance: The Stanislaus Economic Development and Workforce Alliance is one of the only organizations nationally overseeing both economic development and workforce training activities. The Alliance is a private not for profit corporation with a mission and responsibility of implementing economic development and workforce training activities for the Stanislaus County community. The Alliance is committed to creating a blueprint for success, which can make the Stanislaus the strategic business choice for existing and expanding businesses by focusing on job creation, business assistance and workforce preparation activities.
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ FALL 2012
GOOD NEWS . . . TURLOCK CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM DEALERSHIP IS BACK! he Great Recession brought down many businesses, but one of the most significant was the American auto industry. There was a federal bailout for the industry but not for some dealerships. Turlock certainly felt the repercussion by the loss of the Turlock Auto Plaza.
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July 2012,Turlock welcomed the Turlock Chrysler Jeep Ram dealership back to the community after three and one-half years. Not only is it great news for the area and nice to see the property bustling with activity, but many of these employees worked for the previous dealership. Their presence in the community has been missed and customers are anxious to check out the latest models. Inder Dosanjh, the owner of the dealership, lives in Ceres and has resided in Stanislaus County for most of his life. This dealership is the twelfth that Mr. Dosanjh owns in California and they opened their doors 90 days after the decision was made to go ahead with the new dealership. The City Manager of Turlock, Roy Wasden, assisted in streamlining the process. Dosanjh, takes pride in bringing innovation and comfort to each buyer, whether the individual is looking for a new or like-new used vehicle. Their friendly, highly trained, knowledgeable staff are fully prepared to answer any questions that the customers may have. Master mechanics are on site to service vehicles meaning individuals no longer need to travel to Merced or Modesto to have work completed on their cars. Stop by 1600 Auto Mall Drive in Turlock to check out the latest Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram models. Additional information about the latest models can be accessed at the Turlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram website, http://turlockchryslerdodgejeepram.com or by calling 209.250.8500.
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ FALL 2012
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The Turlock Chamber Hosts a Business Empowerment Forum with Congressman Denham, Senator Cannella and Assemblymember Olsen n September 26, the Turlock Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business Empowerment Forum at Latif ’s Restaurant from 8:00 to 10:00 am. The Honorable Jeff Denham, US House of Representatives, The Honorable Anthony Cannella, California Senate and The Honorable Kristin Olsen, California Assembly were the guests of honor. The event was hosted by the California Prosperity Project, partnership between CalChamber and BiPAC and Alliance for Affordable Services.
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Attending were Dan Faraci, Cathy Mesch and Chianne Hewer. Cathy is the Grass Roots Coordinator for CalChamber. Chianne is the West Region VP for BiPac based in San Francisco, which represents five western states. Mayor John Lazar was the Emcee and Joe Savarise, Senior Regional VP for BIPAC from Washington, DC was the Moderator. There were approximately 100 in attendance to hear what the Congressman, Senator and Assemblymember envision the issues facing the future of California, particular the Central Valley.
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Senator Cannella talked about the culture change that was needed in California, specifically regarding business owners, having concerns for their own survival, but also, giving back to their communities and to the state as a whole. The mutual concern of all the legislatures was the need for state legislation reform. Assemblymember Olsen is concerned about how many businesses are leaving the state to do business elsewhere, as well as the need to improve the process to make business decisions for a more transparent government. Congressman Denham shared his frustration with businesses taxes and how difficult it is for small business to expand. Other topics discussed included education, water storage, workforce development, bringing new industries to the valley and of course, roads, transportation, and state financing. The Turlock Chamber was very pleased and wants to thank the legislators for making time from their busy schedules to meet with our community members and business leaders.
Empowerment Forum
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ FALL 2012
New CSU Stanislaus President Champions Community Partnerships By David Tonelli n his first three months on the job, CSU Stanislaus Interim President Joseph F. Sheley has made good on his promise to get out into the community and region to start meeting people.
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He has met with federal and state legislators, local elected officials, school superintendents, and business and community leaders from all over the San Joaquin Valley. Two Turlock Chamber of Commerce events were on President Sheley’s schedule: a July luncheon at the Turlock Chamber of Commerce and an August reception at the Carnegie Arts Center. He spoke with chamber members on both occasions. The struggling economy has profoundly affected public higher education and the private sector alike, Sheley said, but he believes the region can thrive if all work together. “We are not an island,” Sheley said. “We are part of an important region, and we truly want to partner in moving this region forward.”
During his tour of the Valley, Sheley said many business owners have sung the praises of CSU Stanislaus graduates. Beyond their expertise in their chosen field of study, he said, CSU Stanislaus students leave college ready to hit the ground running, with an education grounded in the liberal arts and with skills like writing, thinking and communicating that help them transition quickly into the business world. But even beyond the quality of the university’s graduates, Sheley said, there is a growing need for the university to work with local governments and businesses. As evidenced by the success of CSU Stanislaus’ service learning programs — which provide work experience and networking opportunities to students through projects that address specific needs of businesses and other agencies — such partnerships can be mutually beneficial. And when the economy turns around — and universities can return to actively pursuing new students and competing for state funding — a strong relationship with the surrounding region will build the kind of collective pride and advocacy that will benefit the entire Valley. “If we do this, the region’s leaders and citizens become our active, aggressive advocates,” Sheley said. “They celebrate our successes publicly. And they pick up the phone and personally let those who decide our fate know why we matter. No more hidden gem.”
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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By Dan Madden
CITY OF
TURLOCK
ike most other water and wastewater utilities across the country, the city of Turlock is facing many challenges, including: rising costs, stagnating revenues, aging infrastructure, increasingly stringent regulatory requirements, population changes and a rapidly changing workforce. As the city grows and develops, preserving an adequate supply of highquality water for our customers remains our top priority.
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Regional Surface Water Supply Project The city of Turlock relies entirely on groundwater for its potable water supply. For the past several years, the city of Turlock, along with the cities of Modesto, Ceres and Hughson, has been negotiating with the Turlock Irrigation District to receive treated water from the Tuolumne River to supplement potable water supplies. The Regional Surface Water Supply Project would provide up to 29 million gallons per day (32,500 acre-feet per year). Turlock would receive about 55% of the new water supply.
North Valley Regional Recycled Water Project (NVRRWP) The city of Turlock currently operates a tertiary wastewater treatment facility that produces 14,562 acre-feet per year of high quality recycled water. The proposed NVRRWP would combine the tertiary effluents of the cities of Turlock and Modesto to achieve the delivery of 30,930 to 46,600 acre-feet per year of recycled water to the Westside. The water shortage in California is now at a crisis level due to the three-year drought and the pumping reductions from the San Joaquin River Delta. The first phases of the proposed project could produce and deliver the treated water to the drought-impacted west side of Stanislaus County to irrigate food crops. For more information on either of these projects, please contact Dan Madden, Municipal Services Director at the city of Turlock at (209) 668-5590, dmadden@turlock.ca.us or visit the City’s website www.CityofTurlock.org.
If you want to help a vet,
hire a vet By Al Seaton
he Alliance SBDC along with California State University Stanislaus is working to help our armed forces veterans here in the Turlock area find gainful employment or even find their passion and start their own business. CSUS is in the midst of opening their Student Veterans Center on campus which is tasked with coordinating student veterans affairs with available opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, as well as provide a central meeting and training site for CSUS students who have served in the military. This comes on the heels of two recent bills in Congress, HR 4155, and HR 4057 which direct the federal government and the states to consider certain military training when granting licensing and credentialing for veterans in certain occupations.
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Alliance SBDC Consultant Al Seaton is also working with CSUS and U.S. Congressman Jeff Denham’s office to implement and energize the Bipartisan Congressional Veterans Job Caucus whose rallying cry is “I hire veterans.” As Congressman Denham put it “If you want to help a vet, hire a vet.” Seaton said “It’s also a goal of the SBDC is to make veterans in our area aware that starting a business is a viable option for veterans and the SBDC is here to help, with one on one consulting, business plan creation and business education seminars, all provided at no charge by the Alliance SBDC. A further incentive for CSUS veterans, if an entrepreneur veteran or ‘vetrepreneur’ as it were, located in the city of Turlock in a vacant storefront, they could receive a cash incentive of $1000 from our city. For more information, call Al Seaton, Alliance SBDC at 632-2221, or stop by the Turlock Chamber of Commerce during regular business hours, at 115 S. Golden State Blvd. PAGE 12
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
Considering NOVEMBER’S BALLOT MEASURES
By Chris Kiriakou
t seems that with all the convention hoopla that November 6, 2012, Election Day, is just around the corner. Considering that “vote by mail” ballots will be sent out on October 8 through the 30th the election is just around the corner. Which brings me to the typical question how am I going to vote on all these Propositions?? There are 11 measures on the ballot this November ranging from tax increases to the death penalty. Following is a list of the measures and their short title.
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Proposition 30 - Temporary Taxes to Fund Education, Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding Proposition 31 - State Budget, State and Local Government Proposition 32 - Political Contributions by Payroll Deduction, Contributions to Candidates Proposition 33 - Auto Insurance Companies, Prices Based on Driver’s History of Insurance Coverage Proposition 34 - Death Penalty Proposition 35 - Human Trafficking, Penalties Proposition 36 - Three Strikes Law, Repeat Felony Offenders, Penalties Proposition 37 - Genetically Engineered Foods, Labeling Proposition 38 - Tax to Fund Education and Early Childhood Programs Proposition 39 - Tax Treatment for Multistate Businesses, Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Funding Proposition 40 – Redistricting, State Senate Districts Ballot Measure Description Prop. 30
Temporary Taxes to Fund Education. Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding.
Prop. 32
Prohibits Political Contributions by Payroll Deduction. Prohibitions on Contributions to Candidates.
Prop. 33
Changes Law to Allow Auto Insurance Companies to Set Prices Based on a Driver’s History of Insurance Coverage.
Prop. 37
Genetically Engineered Foods. Mandatory Labeling.
Prop. 38
Tax for Education and Early Childhood Programs.
Prop. 39
Tax Treatment for Multistate Businesses. Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Funding.
Support
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Oppose
P P P P
Over two months the Turlock Chamber of Commerce’s Government Relations Committee (aka the GRC) reviewed the ballot measures for their impact on business. Not all are as clear cut as a sales tax increase but some are. The Committee reviewed the measures on the basis of the impact on California‘s economy, the local economy and our community at large. The above table is the GRC’s recommendations on the ballot measures. As you can see there was a significant concern over the proposed increases in taxes even though there would be impacts to our local community. The concern is for business survival in an economy where discretionary income is trending down. BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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7/24/12 8/14/12
Forrest White
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
2/14/12 2/24/12 3/13/12 4/24/12 4/24/12 5/18/12 5/22/12 5/22/12 6/12/12 6/26/12
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM Housing Element Customer Service Report Redevelopment Successor Agency Building Code Standards – Board of Appeals Approval of City of Turlock as Successor Agency Award a Contract for the Rehabilitation of Golden State Blvd. and W. Main St. Appointment of Rob Jackson as Police Chief Towing Fee Schedule Vote to Support Measure T – 1/8th cent Library Tax Reduce Arts Commission Membership to 7 members Support ACA23 – Change vote to 55% for certain tax Approve $70,000 grant funding for 6 Non-Profits Approve ordinance providing recycling to businesses Adopt General Fund and Non-General Fund Budgets Development Collaborative Advisory Committee Extend Contract for Participation in the Alliance/Small Business Development Center. Sewer Bond Refunding Development Costs for Drinking Water Plant Dev.
John Lazar
MEETING 1/10/12 1/10/12 1/10/12 1/24/12 2/14/12 2/14/12
Mary Jackson
1 2 3 4 5 6
Bill DeHart
By Chris Kiriakou
Amy Bublak
A QUIET SUMMEr AT CITY HALL
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The third quarter of 2012 had a number of contract and regular operating items for the City Council but little in the way of controversy. However, the council did vote on a number of business related items that one might consider small in scope individually but added together are important to conducting business in Turlock. Council items and votes are as follows:
FOLLOWING IS A BRIEF SUMMARY OF EACH OF THE 2012 BUSINESS RELATED ITEMS. • Housing Element – Modification of the General Plan Housing Element to provide for affordable and decent housing within a community. The modified Housing Element provides for Extremely Low, Very Low and Low income households by requiring that Affordable Housing projects of 10, units or greater have 10% for Extremely Low income households, by identifying potential farm worker housing sites suitable for development, assisting non-profits in the development of those sites, and to meet the requirements for an SB2 Emergency Shelter zoning. • Customer Service Report – As part of the City’s strategic Plan to improve customer service the City hired a firm to interview customers of the Development Services Department. Although generally a good finding, the report still provided some opportunities for improvement. • Redevelopment Successor Agency – As part of the ongoing battle over dwindling property tax revenues the Governor and the legislature approved legislation to dissolve Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s). A RDA is a vehicle to fund improvements to blighted areas in a community and is funded through the increase in property taxes resulting from the redevelopment (the tax increment). Because RDA revenues are not handled through the normal state property tax allocation methods, other agencies that rely on property taxes were not getting their share of the revenues. The State Supreme Court ruled in favor of the State. By implementing a Successor Agency the City can continue the existing redevelopment projects within the City but no more. • Building Codes – Board of Appeals – Approve an update to the Building Codes including an Appeals Board in Chapter 8-1, Article 3. • Successor Agency – A continuation of the transition from Turlock RDA to a Successor Redevelopment Agency. (see #3 above) Also establish rules and regulation for the Successor Agency. The Agency will administer the existing RDA projects. • Rehab of Golden State and W. Main – Awarded a $985,484 contract to rehab the two major streets with more than half coming from the Federal Regional Surface Transportation Program. • Towing Fee Schedule – Increase Towing Fee to reflect higher costs of towing. Fees had not been adjusted since February 2009. • Measure T - Currently the Stanislaus County library is supported by a 1/8th cent tax which expires at the end of this year. This Measure would extend it for five more years. • Reduced the Arts Commission membership from 25 to 7 with 2 alternates to improve action. • Assembly Constitutional Amendment 23 would reduce the required 2/3rds affirmative vote to 55% for local transportation related taxes. PAGE 14
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
• The $70,000 Community Development Block Grant provide funding to six local non-profits that provide social services to those in need. • Approved an Ordinance that extends recycling to business refuse collection. Blue Can rental at $7.65/mo. • Approved the 2012/13 approximately $30M City budget containing a $4M deficit with the short fall coming out of City reserves. The future deficit is somewhat driven by the employee concessions due to expire in October but health care and pension cost are also drivers. Staff hopes to resolve at least part of the deficit over the coming months. Bublak was opposed to the large deficit. • Appointed and reappointed certain members of the Committee to assist in improving the City’s processes by providing feedback and assistance in serving the Turlock Development community. • Participate in the Alliance’s training programs for small business employees. Funded through an ARRA grant. • Sewer Bond refunding reduces the annual debt service by $750,000 and $4 million (NPV) over the life if the bonds through a lower interest rate. • Resolves certain issues with TID and reimburses them for past development costs in order to move the Surface Drinking Water Project forward. A quiet summer is not a bad thing in light of the past years’ concern and the coming election. The November election will certainly be an election to watch because of not only the possible change in Washington direction, regardless of the outcome, but because of California’s partially addressed financial problems. Proposition 30 is the Governor’s proposed solution involving a sales tax hike. If it fails there will certainly be financial issues to discuss not only at City Hall but throughout California.
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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Ambassadors DON MUNDELLO, JR. on Mundello, Jr. graduated from Turlock High School and has lived and worked in the Turlock area most of his life. He is a coach and board member for the Denair Youth Football Team and a member of the New Life Christian Center.
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Recently, Don married Amy and together they have four children: Dustin (17) Allison (15) Breanna (15) and Trey (10). They attend Denair School District and are active in sporting and church activities. With the downturn of the economy, the company that Don worked for needed to reduce 1/3 of their positions to remain in business. Though it meant leaving a position he enjoyed and searching for new employment, he secured a position with Aflac. His 16 years of customer service and professional sales experience provided a seamless transition into his new career as an Insurance Agent, one that brings him pride and a sense of satisfaction. Aflac is an incredible company that provides cash benefits directly to policy holders at times when they need it most; paying bills that major medical coverage doesn’t. The depth of voluntary benefits provided to clients allows them to help keep their employees protected without costing their company a dime. It’s really a nobrainer. Don looks forward to his participation as a Chamber member and the opportunity to get to know y’all!
New Members µ µ µ µ µ µ µ µ
CHERYL GERHARDT heryl Gerhardt has been serving as the Marketing Director for Paramount Court Senior Living since June 2009. She was previously at a community in Stockton for 11 years where she served as Marketing Director and Executive Director during her time there. She has been in the health industry since 1987 getting her start at Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehab after attending Andon College for their Medical Office course. Cheryl has been an member of CVMAPS Networking group in Modesto for several years and currently serves as their President. She is also Secretary for the Stanislaus County Sheriff Posse, a member of the Newman and Turlock SEAPA (Stanislaus Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance) forums, serves on the Alzheimer’s Aid Society Harvest Moon Fundraiser Committee, the Stroke Resource Inc. Caregiver Conference Committee and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Committee. She is also very happy to be a new part of the Chamber and looks forward to building relationships with the other members. In her spare time she enjoys camping, reading, laying by the pool and spending time with family and friends. She has been married to Deputy Gerhardt for almost 25 years, has 2 daughters, 1 son, a granddaughter and another due this December.
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It is such a pleasure to work with so many wonderful people and very rewarding at the end of the day to know I have helped a family, resident, or colleague resolve a problem. I pride myself on being a resource to the community at large to provide education and information so they can make the best choices possible for themselves and their loved ones.
Acosta Family Dental Blue Diamond Growers Expo Marketing & Services Hoffman Electronic Systems State Senator Anthony Cannella Stop-N-Shop Sunopta Turlock Auto Plaza
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BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
Ribbon Cuttings
DENTAL SPA, ANTOINE VARANI, DDS
STOP-N-SHOP
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
Mixers
WAHL, WILLEMSE & WILSON, LLP
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
MEDIC ALERT PAGE 17
Class of 2013 Hemanta Agarwala Alpha Inc.
Audrey Lopes-Dermond American AgCredit
Ken Freeby Allen Mortuary
Matthew Bonander Bonander Buick GMC
Jay Brem Turlock Unified School District
Trevor Irish Monte Vista Optometry
Henry Jackson Cal-Green Recycling
Toby Kitchens Lancaster Painting
Kuldip Maderr Memorial Medical
Peter Morales Emanuel Medical Center
Miguel Pacheco Turlock Police Department
Annie Ritsick UC Merced
Tasha Van Santen Turlock Chamber of Commerce
Anokeen Varani Varani DDS Dental Spa
Scott Wejmar Turlock Fire Department
Ron Wilkinson Nashihara Wilkinson Design
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Adrenna Alkhas Stanislaus County Fair
“Where leaders come together with a commitment, motivation and interest in serving the Turlock Community for 20 years.” BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
t looks like the Greek government will not go into default on nearly $1.3 trillion Euros. Oh, by the way 1 Euro = $1.3256 today so that’s really $1.72 trillion give or take a few bucks. Come on, what does a default in a country the size of Connecticut mean to me here in Turlock on the other side of the world?? Well it really could mean a lot because guess who holds some of that debt??
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A Greek Tragedy The Greek government has issued about $1.72 trillion in bailout bonds to keep the country alive, more or less. A payment on the debt is coming due March 20 and the Greeks don’t have the cash. (No wonder, in December unemployment was 21%.) The Greek government has asked the private bond holders to take a 53.5% cut in the current value or a near 70% loss in the full value of the bonds, as well as, seeking a $172 billion loan. Well here’s the connection between Turlock and Greece, guess who holds Greek bonds and related derivatives, several large US banks!! Remember those pesky derivatives from four years ago, Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS) that we’re still trying to recover from. Local Banks In June last year CNN reported that JP Morgan Chase, CitiGroup, and Bank of America held around $185 billion in Greek related derivatives. These are some of our local banks that we rely on for credit and services. But you say that’s a drop in the bucket compared to the $878 billion the US government bailout that the banks received under the Toxic Asset Relief Program (TARP). Guess what, Greece is just the leading edge of the storm with Italy, Spain, Portugal and Ireland not far behind. If Greece
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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Reflections on Wisconsin By Mike Lynch
na and I attended the vigil at the Sikh temple in Turlock on Friday evening. It was a solemn ceremony, with the participation of most of the Turlock Sikh community and of the cities’ elected leadership.
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The temple, a beautiful building located near City Hall, reflects, both inside and out, the splendor and color of the Sikh community. I thought of how lucky I was to live in a community where we are exposed to so many different cultures and peoples who all coexist peacefully, living the meaning of the words on the Seal of the United States of America, “E PLURIBUS UNUM“ or “Out of Many, One” The speakers expressed grief over the shootings in Wisconsin, and also mentioned several other incidents where Sikhs have been attacked and murdered by people who apparently thought the Sikhs were Muslims. But no one blamed Muslims for the attacks. Instead, the shooter and other haters were condemned as ignorant. The heroism and valor of the police and church members was highlighted. Most of us, or our ancestors, came here because we couldn’t make it in the land of our forefathers, or were brought here by force. Others wanted the freedom to hold their own religion, or no religion at all. Others fled persecution and genocide. Most came because it was the only way they could improve the lot of their families. They took a great risk to dare the unknown because they wanted something better. Even today, those who come here, both legally and illegally, have essentially the same
motives. This desire to do better, to be free, to practice one’s religion in peace are fundamental to our society today. It hasn’t been easy. We have struggled mightily to get it right, and rarely do so perfectly. But we do move forward. Catholics were discriminated against until sheer weight of numbers made them equals in the power structure. Mormons had to flee from state to state to find a place where they could worship in peace. Japanese Americans were dispossessed of property and interned (imprisoned) in one shameful part of our past. In our bloodiest war over 600,000 Americans died (the equivalent in today’s population to over 3 million) to remove from our land the curse of slavery. But in a few months time we will decide, as Americans, whether to retain as President of the United States a man who happens to be Black, or replace him with a man who happens to be Mormon. This is progress on a grand scale. The cliché is accurate: It could only happen in America. It makes me proud to live in a country that is composed of so many different cultures and societies. The greatness of America is that we have made our cultural differences our strength. No one has to be Catholic, Baptist, Mormon, Sikh, Muslim, atheist, or Jew to be fully vested as Americans. The only requirement is that no one can force, either directly or indirectly, his or her religious or cultural practices on another. If you agree to that constraint, you are as American as the descendants of the Mayflower, and the Native Americans who were here first. That is why Ana and I went to the vigil at the Sikh temple in our hometown. The attack in Wisconsin was an attack on our neighbors and our community also. It was an attack on us as Americans. Such attacks, where haters murder at random for reasons no rational person can understand, will likely continue. But whether they happen in Wisconsin, in Colorado, in Arizona or in Stockton, we cannot surrender to the hate and intimidation. Our police chief urged the attendees to be vigilant, that law enforcement would be there when called. But law enforcement alone will not stop these assaults. All of us must renew our commitment to be intolerant of the haters and liars that lurk in every walk of life. The hate and sickness that leads to such outrages as in Wisconsin is fueled by the hateful ignorant comments and attitudes that go unchallenged at schools, in our workplaces, on television, on the internet, in our churches, neighborhoods and families. It becomes corrosive, and results first in silence, then in fear. It culminates in terror when the haters feel empowered to act. The attack in Wisconsin was not just an attack on a Sikh temple and its congregation. It was an attack on all of us. It was aimed at killing the very essence of the United States of America. But the haters are in for a surprise. They don’t know our people or our history. They will not win.
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BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
Our staff also includes both a massage therapist and a highly sought after esthetician that are available by appointment. We use and sell Murad Skin Care products, developed by nationally acclaimed dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad. For additional information please visit us at www.varanismile.com or call 209.667.8874 to set up an appointment. he Dental Spa, located at 527 E. Olive Ave., Turlock, CA, is dedicated to taking the fear and unease out of a dental visit by providing an elegant environment that is both inviting and serene. Antoine Varani, DDS and his staff are committed to ensuring that each patient is provided with the highest quality care possible.
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A state of the art system allows patients to complete paperwork on an iPad which is automatically downloaded to the computer system and the waiting room offers a selection of beverages from a Keurig coffee station. The exam room provides each patient with an experience specialized to their personal preference. Relax to the scent of peppermint, lavender, ylang ylang, eucalyptus or cedar wood, while indulging in a gentle, warming massage and paraffin wax treatment for your hands, as your chosen music or favorite television program play. These are all provided at no additional cost with your comfort and health our TOP priority. The level of skill and care provided by the Dental Spa is very important to Dr. Varani; he is known for his gentle touch and takes pride in ensuring that each patient has a positive experience.
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ FALL 2012
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CVB Promotes . . .
Turlock Community Events American Cowboy Team Roping State Finals Sept 19‐23, All Day More Info: (559) 816‐9932 www.actra.org Party Under the Stars Sept 22, 6:30 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: (209) 632‐2221 www.TurlockChamber.com STANfest 2012 Sept 22, 10:00 AM‐2:00 PM Location: California State University Stanislaus Walk Your Paws Sept 22, 8:00 AM‐9:00 AM More Info: www.cotaforisabellac.com Los Valientes Sept 27 & 28, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: (209)667‐3166 Garden in the Barn Sept 28 & 29, 8:00 AM‐2:30 PM More Info: (209)678‐0070 Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Sept 28 – Nov 10, hours varies More Info: (209)649‐7078 www.ramfarms.com Turlock Rotary Golf Classic Sept 28, 11:00 AM‐11:00 AM Location: Turlock Golf & Country Club More Info: (209)667‐2300 www.turlock.org MedicAlert Health & Safety Fair Sept 29, 10:00 AM‐3:00 PM More Info: (209)668‐3333 www.medicalert.org/ Kenny Logins Oct 4, 7:30 PM‐8:30 PM More Info: (209)668‐1169 www.TurlockTheatre.org The Shape of Things Oct 4, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.edu WGAS Motorsports Monster Truck Races Oct 5, 6:00 PM‐11:00 PM More Info: (530)745‐0100 www.wgasmotorsports.com California Historical Radio Society Oct 6, 9:00 AM‐1:00 PM More Info: (209)605‐0290 www.cvantiqueradio.com Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist Oct 6 – Jan 13, Hours Vary More Info: (209) 632‐5761 CarnegieArts.org Warrior Baseball FanFest, Carshow, & BBQ Oct 6, 12:00 PM‐5:00 PM More Info: (209)667‐3272 www.CSUStan.com Rich Roberts – Fall Auto Swap Meet Oct 7, 6:00 AM‐4:00 PM More Info: (209) 358‐3334 www.springfallturlock.com Intuition and Holistic Expo Oct 13, 10:00 AM‐5:00 PM More Info: (209)604‐5413 www.TurlockExpo.com Community Hormone Replacement Seminar Oct 16, 6:00 PM‐8:00 PM More Info: (209)216‐3340 www.towerpharmacy.com
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Business Summit Oct 17, 8:00 AM‐4:30 PM More Info: (209)632‐2221 www.turlockchamber.com 3rd Annual Wine & Screams Oct 19, 7:00 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: wineandscreams@yahoo.com Market Place Boutique Oct 19, 10:00 AM‐3:30 PM More Info: (209)664‐9500 www.paramountcourtseniorliving.com Sacred Heart School ‘Kentucky Derby’ Dinner & Auction Oct 20, 5:00 PM‐9:00 PM More Info: (209)669‐5336 www.sacredheartturlock.com Stepping Out for Life 5K Walk/Run Oct 20, 9:00 AM‐1:00 PM More Info: (209)606 9517 www.turlockpregnancycenter.com Amy Seeley and the Moline Madman Oct 25, 8:00 AM‐9:00 AM More Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.edu Todd Agnew Oct 26, 7:00 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: (209) 634‐4935 www.montevistachapel.org Holiday Open House at Vintage Market Nov 1, 5:30 PM‐8:00 PM More Info: (209)669‐7800 www.vintagemarket210.com Mike Birbiglia ‘My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend’ Nov 1, 7:30 PM‐9:00 PM More Info: (209)668‐1169 www.TurlockTheatre.org Barry McGuire’s Trippin’ The Sixties Nov 3, 7:00 PM‐9:00 PM More Info:(209) 668‐1169 www.turlockgospelmission.org Angels! (Angels We Have Heard On High)—by Sean Abley Nov 8, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PM More Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.edu Letters to Santa Golf Tournament Nov 8, 11:00 AM‐11:30 PM More Info:(209)678‐3936 www.letterstosantacharity.com Wine Social Nov 8, 5:30 PM‐7:30 PM More Info Contact: Diane Wold: :209)480‐1743 Craft Faire Nov 9, 9:00 AM‐5:00 PM More Info: (209)667.7712 www.gslct.org 16th Annual Christmas Open House Nov 10, 6:00 PM‐9:00 PM More Info: (209) 632 ‐ 4214 www.greenerynsy.com Kettle Dash Nov 10, 7:00 AM‐8:30 AM More Info: 209‐667‐6091 x 207 www1.usw.salvationarmy.org Kettle Kickoff Luncheon Nov 10, 11:30 AM‐2:00 PM More Info: 209‐667‐6091 x 207 www1.usw.salvationarmy.org Turlock Stepping Pards 59th Anniversary Nov 11, 7:00 PM‐10:30 PM More Info:www.steppinpards.ccsda.org
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012
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