209 Business Journal - May 2022

k e e p i n g

BUSINESS JOURNAL

b u s i n e s s e s

VOLUME 7 ■ ISSUE 5

c o n n e c t e d ™

MAY 2022

SAYING ‘I DO’

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Palo Santo Cafe .....................

2

J&J Ramos Farms ..................

3

Luscious Lockz .......................

4

River Island Dining ..................

5

Olive Oil Winners ....................

5

Courthouse Construction .......

6

Opinion ...................................

7

Agrivoltaics .............................

8

Liberty Square ........................

9

Accolades................................

11 Bogdan Condor Photography

Wedding guests celebrate Rachel and Nick’s nuptials at their ceremony held at the Galas Barn in Oakdale. Due to COVID concerns, many couples are choosing an outdoor venue for the celebrations.

Wedding bells are ringing once again

BY KRISTINA HACKER 209 Business Journal

E

rika Moreno and Robert Saldana of Livingston are one of the approximately 2.6 million couples planning to get married in 2022 — the most weddings in one year in

recent history.

The Knot, a wedding planning and resources authority, recently released a study that revealed couples who postponed their weddings due to COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021 have made 2022 a booming year for nuptials as pandemic

restrictions have lifted.

According to the study, 98 percent of those set to wed in 2022 are confident their wedding will take place as scheduled. While the reality of Omicron is top of mind, couples feel confident that they can move forward with

their wedding plans and 81% will implement at least one health or safety measure on their wedding day. Providing hand sanitizer is the most common (53%), followed by requiring staff to wear masks SEE WED, PAGE 9

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

2

MAY 2022

IN PROFILE

New café offers unique dining option for Riverbank

BY VIRGINIA STILL

209 Business Journal

Palo Santo Café has been open in Riverbank for the past couple of months, offering a variety of coffee, teas, homemade baked goods, custom gelato, and now breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

They are open six days a week and are closed on Tuesdays.

Café owners Christian and Nayeli Vázquez had been planning to open the café for a year but due to COVID there were several delays. The soft opening on Super Bowl Sunday in February was a great first day for them; Nayeli said that they had a huge turnout with a constant line out the door and even ran out of a few things. The café is at 6333 Oakdale Road, Suite I and can be reached by calling 209-5027213.

“When my husband Christian and I decided to open this café we wanted to do it for our community,” said Nayeli. “We just knew that our community was lacking a place like this. We wanted a place to bring the community back together, a place to come and chat, have a date, or be out with your kids.”

Nayeli has lived in Riverbank her entire life and has been in the family restaurant business since she was 10. Christian has lived in Riverbank for the past 12 years and was doing deliveries for his mom’s bakery in Mexico City when he was 14.

“We got married and started working for my parents and it was time for us to go on our own,” explained Nayeli about starting the café. “So we had this fantastic experience in Mexico and we wanted to bring something a little bit different so why not marry them, the coffee, pastry, gelato, with the Mexican culture.”

Not only can the Mexican culture be seen in the café through the décor and ambiance but also in their offerings like the coffee from Oaxaca, Mexico and now their food.

“I feel like educating the com-

VIRGINIA STILL/209 Business Journal

TOP TO BOTTOM Palo Santo Café serves an in-house made gelato in a variety of flavors. Palo Santo Café owners Christian and Nayeli Vázquez are very passionate about serving the community top notch drinks and delicious food. Since they opened in February, Palo Santo Café in Riverbank has had several customers from all over the Central Valley area.

munity about what it really means to order a macchiato or a cappuccino, and introduce them and let them know what it is really about,” added Nayeli. “We put our heart and soul into this, it is our baby.”

Previously the café was a mail depot that did not have a kitchen so they had a general contractor and did a lot of the renovations themselves. When the shopping center opened in 1996 and her parents moved in next door with Taqueria Los Compadres the café at that time was a yogurt shop. Nayeli recalled going to the yogurt shop when she was a kid which gave her the inspiration for the café.

They did their research and took their courses for baristas and gelato. Her mother-in-law and sister-in-law from Mexico City make homemade pastries daily with gluten free, vegan, and Keto friendly options.

They started out with the Espresso Bar, gelato, and pastries with the intent on serving guests a full menu. Now they have breakfast, lunch and dinner options like Ultimate Guacamole Toast, Signature Salads, sopas, pozole, and Chicken Tinga.

The menu has traditional California cuisine with a Mexican twist, Nayeli noted. For example they have a Palo Santo Cilantro Lime salad that has mixed greens, roasted corn, cherry tomato, pepita seeds, pepper Jack cheese, tortilla strips that is drizzled with their creamy cilantro lime vinaigrette but then they have a Strawberry Fields salad with mixed greens, bleu cheese crumbles, fresh strawberries, walnuts, topped with a strawberry vinaigrette.

Another option is the Ultimate Guacamole Toast which is a customer favorite that has sourdough toast topped with guacamole, queso Cotija, an over easy egg and pico de gallo or the Everything Seasoned Avocado Toast that has avocado spread with cream cheese, cherry tomato, everything seasoning, arugu-

la, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic.

The soups on the menu include the Sopa de Fideo, Sopa Azteca, and Crema de Poblano.

The banana berry crepes have been a top seller as well as their ceviche.

“Everything is made in house and that is why we took our time to introduce it and not just throw something out there on a plate,” explained Nayeli. “We decided that we are going to do this and we wanted to learn it the right way. We are a different concept.”

They have an assortment of gelato flavors and Nayeli shared that it is not ice cream. It is Italian ice cream that has 50 percent less fat and is more airy. It is made in small batches in house and is not delivered to them.

They have specific cups for the different types of coffee that is ordered, like the Espresso drinks that come in two little cups with one ounce each that are supposed to be drank one right after the other according to Nayeli.

She said, “Espresso is made to be enjoyed right when it comes out so you can get the best of the flavor and the crema.”

The Cubano is a top seller at the café along with the Strawberry iced latte made with a special strawberry mix, milk, topped with whip cream, strawberry syrup and sliced strawberries.

They offer milk alternatives and sugar free flavors. For the non-coffee drinkers they do have a variety of Rishi organic teas like English Breakfast black tea, Dandelion Detox-Pu’ER tea and Botanicals, Lavender Mint Botanical blend, and Matcha Super Green Green tea.

“The number one thing for me is having the right team,” stated Nayeli. “My husband is at the bar taking care of all the drinks, then my mother-in-law, sister-inlaw, comadre, my parents and my sister are my backbone. That support is key.”

3

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

MAY 2022

IN PROFILE

Family-owned fruit barn expands to offer more than just fresh produce

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA

J&J Ramos Farms

209 Business Journal

J&J Farms was founded 25 years ago

by Joe and Josie Cipponeri. After the business was handed off to Alex Ramos and his family, they have slowly been expanding their store and selection of products, making it a staple for fresh produce and baked goods in Hughson and the surrounding 209 region.

Ramos explained that the business has come a long way since starting out as just a fruit stand at a corner in Hughson.

“It started as a little shack on the roadside and we’ve just kept adding and adding stuff,” Ramos said.

One of the biggest aspects of the business’ expansion has been the warehouse, which is where main operations take place. Within the open-air warehouse are a variety of goods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, pies and more. Ramos explained how each of the products within his store is grown, picked, packaged and distributed by his family.

Location: 2507 Geer Rd., Hughson Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Contact information: (209) 883-4680 or jjramosfarms97@gmail.com

“We’ve farmed all around this area,” Ramos explained. “We don’t just buy stuff from other places. We’re the actual farmers. We want to make sure that this is the most fresh and homegrown products that people in our area can get.”

In recent months, J&J Farms began introducing baked goods. The family initially started with just pies, but Ramos felt as if there was a unique opportunity in front of them at their location on Geer Road.

“We only sold pies to start out with but SEE FRUIT, PAGE 10

CHRISTOPHER CORREA/209 Business Journal

Owner Alex Ramos poses in front of the new J&J Ramos Farms warehouse.

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209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

4

MAY 2022

IN PROFILE

Home bakery expands in unique Turlock collaboration

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA 209 Business Journal

Michelle Bates has always had a passion for baking, and what was once a hobby has quickly turned into a successful business.

Bates’ journey began nearly seven years ago when she was asked to make cupcakes for her nephew’s first birthday. People loved her cupcakes so much, they floated the idea to Bates that she should start her own baking business.

“Everybody there was like ‘Oh my gosh, you need to start doing this. These are so good,’” she said. “Then I started getting random requests and so I just started dabbling a little bit throughout the years. I had taken a few orders here and a few orders there.”

While people were raving over

Photo contributed

Michelle Bates, owner of Gigi’s Kitchen, poses with her nieces, nephews and granddaughter at her new location within Lisa’s Cookie Jar in downtown Turlock.

Bates’ creations, she explained how her journey consisted of lots of trial and error.

“I’ve thrown lots of batches of cupcakes away,” she admitted. “I have researched different recipes and decided that I needed to make things my own so I would add or subtract until I got it to where I wanted it to be.”

Bates also works as a real estate agent, so her time was also limited to experiment and operate her small business. This remained true up until the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When COVID hit, my 12-year-old daughter was no longer allowed to go with me to come show properties, so I thought I would just focus on my baking,” Bates explained.

With this magnified focus, Bates did porch deliveries and scheduled pickups from her

home. Last January, she decided to make her business official and became cottage licensed and insured.

Aside from cakes and cupcakes, Bates has baked muffins, parfaits, cookies, brownies and has even offered dessert bars for weddings and other special events, all from her home kitchen.

While Bates’ business has grown significantly since she launched, she acknowledged that running a popular business from her house was not an easy task. Luckily, she has found the perfect business partner in downtown Turlock to further expand her business ventures.

This May, Bates will officially move part of her business inside Lisa’s Cookie Jar on 115 S. Broadway.

SEE BAKERY, PAGE 10

PROTECT OUR DONATIONS!! Luscious Lockz celebrates Ceres location

BY JEFF BENZIGER

209 Business Journal

ONLY LEAVE DONATED ITEMS when the ROLL UP DOOR IS OPEN and an official GOODWILL TEAM MEMBER is PRESENT

NEVER LEAVE DONATIONS when the ROLL UP DOOR IS CLOSED and site is Vince Rembulat/209 Business Journal UNATTENDED

The new Strand Ace Hardware Store in Manteca is located in the old Orchard Supply Hardware building on Louise Avenue near North Main Street.

Thank You!

For store donation hours go to Goodwill-sjv.org

The Ceres Chamber of Commerce celebrated the relocation of Luscious Lockz hair salon and boutique from Turlock to Ceres during a recent ribbon cutting event.

Owners Laura Garcia and her fiancé Odisho “Odi” Pavir made the move in February 2021 on the heels of the reopening of most segments of society following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been really, really good and most of my clients have been faithful since during the pandemic so thanks to them I was able to get the salon,” said Garcia. She was nervous about opening a year ago, unsure if there would be enough clients to keep the salon open. Garcia bought the former Pretty Girls Rock salon site and introduced Luscious Lokz to Ceres.

“Every single one of clients followed me and all of them supported me.”

Gathering at the business at 2415 Lawrence Street were Chamber, city and other government officials. Mayor Javier Lopez presented a certificate to Garcia, jesting “I would ask for a haircut but I don’t have any hair. Maybe my eyebrows.”

JEFF BENZIGER/209 Business Journal

Ceres Mayor Javier Lopez (right) extends a welcome to Luscious Lockz owners Laura Garcia and Odisho “Odi” Pavir as stylists Shyla Ford, Melissa Ambriz and Veronica Garcia listen on. At left is Brandy Meyer, a Ceres Chamber of Commerce representative.

The salon specializes in haircuts, hair coloring and extensions and has three hair stylists in Shyla Ford, Melissa Ambriz and Veronica Garcia. Hours vary because the salon operates as appointments only but typically the salon is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays.

The business may be reached at (209) 338-7712.

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

5

MAY 2022

NEWS

Winners announced in Valley olive oil competition STAFF REPORTS

209 Business Journal

After an extensive judging of quality California-produced olive oils, The Big Fresno Fair has selected the winners of the Seventh Annual San Joaquin Valley Olive Oil Competition (SJVOOC). This competition, open to all olive oil producers in California with products made from their 2021 olive harvest, received a total of 69 entries from 25 olive oil producers from throughout the State.

Entries were received in two categories, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and Flavored Olive Oil, with 10 classes in total.

Gold and Silver Medals were awarded, as well as an overall “Best of Show” and “Best of the Valley” selected from all of the highest scoring gold medal entries in both categories. In total there were 50 EVOO and 19 Flavored Olive Oil entries that were entered for judging.

Following is a list of winners

of the Seventh Annual San Joaquin Valley Olive Oil Competition: BEST OF SHOW Tres Osos Taggiasca (Carmel Valley) - EVOO Coldani Olive Ranch’s Calivirgin Habanero (Lodi) – Flavored Olive Oil BEST OF THE VALLEY Coldani Olive Ranch’s Calivirgin Habanero (Lodi) Extra Virgin Olive Oils GOLD MEDAL WINNERS Spanish Blends: Fresno State Miller’s Blend (Fresno), Rancho Azul y Oro Olive Farm Estate Blend (San Miguel), Olivaia’s OLA Block X Blend (Lindsay), Cobram Estate Classic (Woodland) Spanish Singles: Olivaia’s OLA Estate Sevillano (Lindsay), Mountain Springs Olive Ranch Arbequina (Paso Robles), The Olive Press Picual (Sonoma), Organic Roots Arbosana (Max-

well), Rio Bravo Ranch Picual (Bakersfield), Coppetti Olive Oil Manzanilla (Oakdale) Italian Blends: Winter Creek Ruscello D’Inverno (Valley Springs), Tres Osos Robust (Carmel Valley), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Paradiso (San Miguel), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Magnifico (San Miguel), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Fantastico (San Miguel), Toothacre Ranch Old World Style EVOO (Ramona), Colomba Bianca (Clements) Italian Singles: Tres Osos Taggiasca (Carmel Valley), Winter Creek Frantoio (Valley Springs), Coldani Olive Ranch Lodi Olive Oil Frantoio EVOO (Lodi), Cobram Estate Robust (Woodland) Other Blends: Cobram Estate Select (Woodland), Olivaia’s OLA Block X Heirloom (Lindsay), Rio Bravo Ranch Miller’s Reserve Blend (Bakersfield), Mangini Ranch Calaveras Reserve (Wallace)

Photo contributed

The Gold Medal winners selected in the 2022 San Joaquin Valley Olive Oil competition.

SILVER MEDAL WINNERS Spanish Blends: California Olive Ranch Miller’s Blend (Chico), Corto Olive Co. Truly (Stockton) Spanish Singles: Organic Roots Olive Oil Organic Arbequina (Maxwell), California Olive Ranch Arbequina (Chico),

ENZO Olive Oil Company Bold (Clovis), ENZO Olive Oil Company Medium (Clovis), Cobram Estate Mild (Woodland), Olive Crush Farms Arbequina (Valley Springs), Mangini Ranch Mission (Wallace) Italian Blends: Partridge FamSEE OIL, PAGE 10

River Islands seeks niche regional dining and shopping options

BY DENNIS WYATT

209 Business Journal

In the coming years the go to place for leisurely dining and specialty shopping in the nearly 900,000 consumer strong Tracy, Manteca, Stockton, and Modesto region may be Lathrop.

It is because River Islands at Lathrop is combining its unique location, solidly middle-class demographics of households plunking down $567,990 to $1,250,900 to buy new homes, and a meticulous planned community to create a village center weaved seamlessly into casual recreation to create a destination dining and shopping venue.

There are three village centers planned within the 15,001-home planned community on top of — but out of sight of — the heaviest traveled Northern San Joaquin Valley junction — Interstate 205, Interstate 5, and the 120 Bypass.

One of those three village cen-

ters will surround a man-made lake with promenade-style access to more than 14 miles of an uninterrupted greenbelt that will encircle the island including unparalleled views of the San Joaquin River and Old River at its front door. The village center is adjacent to a completed and lighted 500-seat Islanders baseball field, a soccer complex and a football stadium designed for high school games and community events that will be breaking ground soon.

A second area is being designed as a transit village along the Valley Link tracks with connecting rail service to the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station. Commuter service is targeted to start in 2029.

The third village will be next door to a 900-home Del Webb at River Islands community as well as the 1,800-student River Island High on the southern side of the island.

All three village areas are on the perimeter of the 4,800-acre planned community. They are being designed with walkability in mind.

But more important for retailers and dining concerns is the intention to have a built-in population intertwined with the villages with each location having more than 1,600 apartment units.

That provides a 24/7 village where concerns can build their business literally with foot traffic just down the street, the overall buying power of ultimate 15,001 households in the community, and the ability to draw regional diners and shoppers.

River Islands at President Susan Dell’Osso noted Cambay Group has hired a full-time expert to pursue potential retail and dining enterprises. But perhaps more important they are already being contacted by regional celebra-

209 Business Journal file photo

The Boathouse Restaurant at River Islands.

tory restaurants seeking to expand. They are drawn by the success of the Boat House restaurant and the concentrated demographics of River Islands where the bulk of new homes are selling in the mid-$800,000s to mid-$900,000 range.

Due to the popular demand of dining at the Boat House and accessing the adjoining recreational amenities, River Islands is in the process of putting in place a pedestrian bridge to span the man-made lake the resSEE BOATHOUSE, PAGE 10

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

6

MAY 2022

NEWS

Construction in full swing for new county courthouse in downtown Modesto

BY JEFF BENZIGER

209 Business Journal

It won’t be finished until the fall of 2024 but construction is in full swing on the new 309,000-square-foot, $340.5 million courthouse in downtown Modesto that will serve all of Stanislaus County.

Less than two miles from Ceres’ northern city limits, tThe eight-story project is going up in the city block bounded by G and H streets between Ninth and Tenth streets. The site was formerly occupied by multiple uses that included Turner Hardware and the Greyhound bus station.

It block is catty corner from the Modesto Police Department headquarters.

The new 27 courtroom structure will replace the outdated and cramped facility built in the 1960s several blocks away.

Planning for the project began years ago with the 3.5-acre site selected in May, 2013. In November 2014, the State Public Works Board approved acquisition of the site and escrow closed on December 23, 2014. Funding wasn’t approved until last October.

The site also includes a portion of the block bounded by H and I Streets and 9th and 10th Streets

for parking.

Stanislaus County Superior Court Presiding Judge Robert Westbrook said he is “excited that Stanislaus County will finally have a courthouse worthy of the court’s mission. The new building will reflect the dignity and seriousness of our task —to administer justice for all who enter its doors.”

The California Judicial Council, the policymaking body for the state courts, declared the county’s current court facilities as “overcrowded, lack security features to current standards, and hinder the court’s efficiency by dispersing services over many locations.”

The new courthouse will allow the county to place all court operations under one roof. Currently the court services are farmed out to five separate facilities, including the Small Claims Court at 300 Starr Avenue in Turlock, and Traffic Court at the former roller rink on Floyd Avenue east of Oakdale Road in Modesto. Juvenile Court is now held at the Juvenile Hall facility on Blue Gum Avenue in Modesto. Consolidating these facilities will enable the court to increase efficiency by retiring leases and centralizing operations, said Westbrook.

The project will feature improve security through enhanced entrance screening, separate hallways for the public, staff, and in-custody defendants, and properly-sized holding areas for in-custody defendants.

The project includes space for two future new judgeships and will enable the court to provide basic services not possible due to space restrictions. They include a self-help center, an appropriately sized public lobby and service counters, a properly sized and equipped jury assembly room and jury deliberation rooms, and rooms for family court mediation and attorney/client interviews, as well as a children’s waiting room.

Stanislaus County and Modesto city officials are interested in the redevelopment of the old courthouse, which is owned by the county and state, and are kicking around ideas that include a mixed-use of housing and offices and stores.

Since the state judicial branch took over California courthouses in 2002, the construction program has completed 31 new courthouse projects so far and another eight projects are in various stages. New courthouses have been constructed in Mer-

JEFF BENZIGER/209 Business Journal

Construction of the new county courthouse is occurring between Ninth Street and Tenth Street, and G and H streets in Modesto.

ced, Sonora, Madera, Porterville, Stockton, French Camp, Los Banos, Hollister, Mammoth Lakes, San Andreas, Chico, Yreka, San Jose, Pittsburg, Yuba City, Red Bluff, Hanford, Susanville, Long Beach and Banning.

The state will also need to decide what to do with the Ceres courthouse. The county was forced in 2008 to turn over the Ceres court building at 2744 Second Street, to the state of California Judicial Council Administrative Office of the Courts. The deal called for the county to pay the state $16,421 annually for

Apartment complex, AM/PM OK’d at Service and Morgan in Ceres Expect building within four to five months

BY JEFF BENZIGER

209 Business Journal

A proposal to build a 58unit apartment complex and a 4,000-square-foot AM/PM Arco convenience store with gas station at the northwest corner of Morgan and Service Road was approved by the Ceres Planning Commission on May 2.

The Raja Chandi Group, Inc., is proposing to build the project.

The commission voted 4-0 to approve the Vesting Tentative Parcel Map, Site Plan Approval

and a Conditional Use Permit to give the project a green light.

Commissioner Johnson was absent.

Planners approved splitting a 4.85-acre site into four different parcels; three will be used for the apartment complex and one for the store.

The proposal was originally approved with more apartments and an 8,000-square-foot retail building but the project was not realized. A representative of the project said the new owners pur-

chased it in the middle of the pandemic and faced challenges trying to snag a tenant for the 8,000-square-foot retail space.

A Site Plan Approval allows for the architectural review, use, and placement of the 58-unit apartment complex that will consist of two- to three-bedroom units situated in 18 twostory buildings containing two to four units each. The complex proposes an attached one-car garage for each unit and one 640-square-foot office building.

The city has a formula to require two parking spaces for

each two-bedroom unit and 2.5 spaces per each three-bedroom unit. That means the developer must provide 127 parking spaces to serve the tenants and the guests. Additionally, the management will be required to have tenants sign a rental agreement that forbids them to use the garage for anything but the parking of a vehicle.

The Conditional Use Permit allowed the city to review the architecture being proposed and the placement of the 4,000 square foot convenience store building with a gas station.

maintenance and continue being responsible for earthquake liability for 35 years.

At the time, then Supervisor Jim DeMartini called the forced deal a “lousy deal,” adding “the state just rips off cities and counties every time they can.”

Ceres city officials were hoping to buy the 2,700-square-foot building on a 7,500 square foot lot, which could have been converted to city offices. But the Trial Court Facilities Act of 2002 forbids counties from deeding buildings over to other government agencies.

The site has a General Plan designation of “HDR, High Density Residential” for four acres (on the north and west halves) and a designation of “CC, Community Commercial” for the remaining 0.85 acres (on the southeast portion) of the site.

The number of 58 dwelling units is lower than the 80 to 120 units that the zoning would allow. The smaller units will range from 1,292 square feet to 1,438 square feet of living space; while the three-bedroom units will be 1,584 to 1,662 square feet.

The apartments would primarily be accessed from TranSEE COMPLEX, PAGE 9

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

7

MAY 2022

OPINION

No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.

Vol. 7 No. 5 ■ May 2022 PUBLISHER Hank Vander Veen

­—Charles Dickens

EDITOR Sabra Stafford

NEWSROOM

Christopher Correa Kristina Hacker Teresa Hammond Pawan Naidu Virginia Still Kim Van Meter Dennis Wyatt

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sharon Hoffman

SALES & MARKETING Chris Castro Beth Flanagan Karen Olsen Corey Rogers Melody Wann Charles Webber

DIGITAL

Frankie Tovar Rich Matheson

To advertise in 209 Business Journal, call Manteca ■ 209.249.3500 Oakdale ■ 209.847.3021 Turlock ■ 209.634.9141 Newman ■ 209.862.2222 209 Business Journal is published monthly 122 S. Third Ave • Oakdale, CA 95361 Information: sstafford@209magazine.com 209businessjournal.com The Oakdale Leader USPS No 178-680 Is published weekly by 209 Multimedia, 122 S. Third Ave. Oakdale, Ca 95361 ©Copyright 2022. 209 Business Journal All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of 209 Business Journal is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed in 209 Business Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of 209 Business Journal management or owner.

209 Business Journal assumes no responsibility and makes no recommendation for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred.

Preparing for your first ‘real’ investor “We set up a limited liability company last year for a tech business. There are three of us — one of us acts as ‘managing member’ and the other two vote only on important decisions. We have never had a written agreement for our business.

A wealthy individual has indicated an interest in investing in us, and our accountant is telling us we need to ‘clean up our act’ and adopt a more formal agreement before we let this person invest in our business. Do we really have to, and if so, what exactly must we do to ‘clean up our act’?”

Yes, you have to. Investors are not looking to join families or communes. They are looking to get a return on their investment over time, and they want to know exactly where they stand. You will need to hire an attorney and put together a formal Operating Agreement (similar to a partnership agreement) for your LLC. Here are some of the provisions I would put into that agreement: A Board of Managers When investors come on board, it’s time to separate the “worker bees” from the “money bees” in the organization. Your agreement should

CLIFF ENNICO CREATORS SYNDICATE

establish a board of managers (similar to the board of directors for a corporation) and give the board nearly dictatorial powers to run the business.

The members (owners, like shareholders in a corporation) should do as little as possible.

Your managing member can be the sole manager for starters, but it might be better to have all three of you as managers. The reality here is that the three of you are running the business as partners, and you want to preserve that.

You always want to have an odd number of board members so there are no tie votes that have to be broken and could lead to deadlock.

Three Classes of Equity Right now, you have only one class of LLC membership interest. That will have to change before you bring an investor on board.

Your LLC should have at least three classes of equity: a class of voting preferred equity, a class of voting common equity and a class of nonvot-

ing common equity (known as “profits interests”).

If your company liquidates, dissolves or goes out of business at some point, the holders of preferred equity get their money back before anyone else does. This is the class of equity your investor probably will want. DO NOT specify the terms of preferred equity in the agreement; leave that to be negotiated between your investor and the board of managers.

The three of you would hold voting common equity (like common stock in a corporation). If your company goes out of business, the three of you would split whatever is left over after the preferred equity investors get what’s coming to them.

The nonvoting common equity is for “worker bees” you bring on board in the future.

Once you have an investor in your company, the company has a value, so anybody you give equity to in the future must either a) contribute cash for their equity or b) pay taxes on the value of the equity at the time they receive it. For example, if your investor puts $100,000 into your company, and the next day you hire a programmer and give her 2% of the company as a “sweat

equity” incentive, she will have a $2,000 tax liability at the end of the year.

“Profits Interest” Language To avoid this result, the nonvoting common equity must be treated as a “profits interest” for tax purposes.

This means the holder pays taxes only on any increase in the company’s value from the date he or she acquires it, not his or her entire percentage interest in the company.

Make sure your lawyer puts language in the agreement saying that all nonvoting common equity will be treated as “profits interests.”

“Tag Along” and “Drag Along” Rights If your investor owns less than 50% of the company, you will need these provisions in your agreement. A “Tag Along” clause says that if the majority owners of the company (you) decide to sell their equity at some point, they must give the minority owners (your investor) the chance to sell their equity at the same price. A “Drag Along” clause is similar, except that the minority owners MUST sell their equity at the same price.

A “Preemptive Rights” Clause (Maybe) SEE CLIFF, PAGE 9

209 BUSINESS JOURNAL

8

MAY 2022

NEWS

Frustration continues over empty Kmart building

BY KIM VAN METER

209 Business Journal

Ideas abound for the empty Kmart building on Oakdale’s east end but an integral piece of the puzzle remains out of reach — the City of Oakdale doesn’t own the building, a fact that repeatedly gets lost in the ongoing discussion of what to do with the space.

Currently, the space is owned by Benderson Development, LLC out of Florida, and they’ve expressed zero interest in turning the space into a roller rink, bowling alley, kids rec center, or various food courts, as suggested by community members on social media.

While hopes were high

that Target might occupy the space, talks ultimately died two years ago when Target representatives officially declined to take a chance on Oakdale despite ardent attempts to lure the retailer to the Cowboy Capital.

“Despite our best efforts Target representatives reminded us that they already have a store located eight miles away from the center of Oakdale and that they were not interested in locating into Oakdale at that time,” City Manager Bryan Whitemyer explained.

Following Target’s decision, city leaders attempted to reach Walmart representatives but were never granted a meeting.

While some community members grumbled about Kmart while it was in operation, now that the empty space has become a bigger problem for the community, some have admitted they miss having the onestop shopping opportunity they once took for granted.

“It was nice to be able to run in and get whatever you needed, like underwear or socks, something simple, and household goods at the same time,” said one community member. “I miss having it around.”

And the city leaders agree — finding another use for the large commercial property is a priority.

“The City of Oakdale would love to have another

large tenant in that building serving the good people of Oakdale,” Whitemyer said in an official statement. “We would love to see the parking lot full with our residents and travelers shopping at that store.”

However, as dedicated and open to a new business opportunity the city is, contrary to popular belief, they can’t make the property owners enter into a business relationship against their will.

Whitemyer assured, “The City of Oakdale will continue to work with commercial real estate brokers, Opportunity Stanislaus and others in an effort to bring new businesses to our community.”

Kim Van Meter/209 Business Journal

Still vacant, the former Kmart building on Oakdale’s east end continues to be the subject of discussion and frustration, as no new tenant has yet moved in to the facility.

Agrivoltaics shines new light on land usage

BY SABRA STAFFORD 209 Business Journal

There’s a new field of funding opportunities opening up to farmers and it’s for something that area farmers have plenty of - sunshine.

Agrivoltaics is the practice of planting crops and solar panels in the same fields with the combination benefiting the crops and generating energy. Rather than being close to the ground, the solar panels are raised to a height that allows for farm equipment to pass through underneath. The plants are protected from the the height of the midday sun and dehydration, while the microclimate created by the crops helps the solar plans operate at a higher rate of efficiency.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Futures Study predicts that as much as 40 percent of the nation’s electrical supply will come from solar by the next decade. But to meet that need,

it would mean wide swaths of land would need to be used. Agrivoltaics allows for the farming and solar supply to work on the same land.

The field of agrivoltaics is expanding and a new pilot project is being tested in the region. The Turlock Irrigation District will start installing solar panels over a portion of its existing canals this fall.

In collaboration with the Department of Water Resources, Solar AquaGrid and the University of California, Merced, TID will take part in Project Nexus — the first-ever solar panel over canal development in the United States. The project will assess reduction of water evaporation resulting from midday shade and wind mitigation; improvements to water quality through reduced vegetative growth; reduction in canal maintenance through reduced vegetative growth; and generation of renewable electricity.

The inspiration for the project came from a UC Merced study published last March, which illustrated that covering all of the approximately 4,000 miles of California canals could show a savings of 63 billion gallons of water annually, comparable to the amount needed to irrigate 50,000 acres of farmland or meet the residential water needs of more than 2 million people. According to the study, the 13 gigawatts of solar power the solar panels would generate each year would equal about one sixth of the state’s current installed capacity.

“The Solar AquaGrid model provides a combined, integrated response to addressing our water-energy nexus,” UC Merced Professor Roger Bales said. “It helps address California’s underlying vulnerabilities while meeting both state and federal level commitments to produce renewable energy, preserve natural lands, lower greenhouse gas

emissions and mitigate climate change.”

The $20 million project is funded by the State of California and groundbreaking will take place this fall, with the project’s completion expected in 2024 at multiple locations throughout the TID service territory. The project will utilize already-existing infrastructure, and energy storage will be installed to study how storage facilities can support the local electric grid when solar generation is suboptimal due to cloud cover.

There are a total of three project sites planned along various sections of TID’s canal system, and in total, 8,500 feet of solar panels will be installed.

The three sections are areas of various orientations and canal widths, ranging from 20 feet wide to 100 feet wide.

TID has retained Bay Area development firm Solar AquaGrid as project developers and program managers for

TID and Project Nexus. The two agencies have been collaborating since the project’s inception. Solar AquaGrid originated the project after commissioning the UC Merced study in 2015 and has facilitated collaboration among the various parties to bring Project Nexus to fruition.

“Research and common sense tell us that in an age of intensifying drought, it’s time to put a lid on evaporation,” said Jordan Harris, CEO of Solar AquaGrid. “We are excited to partner with Turlock Irrigation District, DWR and UC Merced to develop this firstin-the-nation pilot project and bring needed innovation to the Central Valley. Our initial study revealed mounting solar panels over open canals can result in significant water, energy, and cost savings when compared to ground-mounted solar systems, including added efficiency resulting from an exponential shading/cooling effect. Now is the chance to put that learning to the test.”

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Visionary Home Builders celebrate Liberty Square opening STAFF REPORTS

209 Business Journal

Visionary Home Builders of California, Inc., Stockton’s nonprofit housing specialist held the grand opening of Liberty Square – VHB’s first multi-housing community for Veterans.

With an ambiance of patriotic colored balloons, flowers and table décor, the celebration was held onsite on March 31.

The grand opening was attended by more than 250 guests, local and state dignitaries, as well as community leaders. The program included a flag raising ceremony by the Weston Ranch High School JROTC, with special recognition given to all Vet-

erans in attendance.

State Senator Susan Talamantes-Eggman and Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln made comments, along with the many partners involved in the revitalization of Liberty Square.

The highlight of the event were the comments made by Shane Bailey, a veteran resident who shared the joy of having the opportunity to live in a safe, and beautiful facility as Liberty Square.

Liberty Square is located at 807 N. San Joaquin Street in Stockton.

Liberty Square was a vacant commercial building in downtown Stockton that has been

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FROM PAGE 1 (40%). Sixteen percent of couples will require testing or for guests to be vaccinated (30%). The average guest size in 2022 is projected to return to pre-pandemic numbers at 129 (131 guests in 2019).

“COVID had major impacts on our plans and had us push out the date two times over the span of two and half years,” said Moreno. “We even looked into elopements and destination weddings, but we knew having the large wedding we have always wanted would be worth it in the end.”

Moreno said she and Saldana were engaged in June 2019 and had originally planned for a November 2020 wedding.

COMPLEX

FROM PAGE 6

quil Lane and Morgan Road while one on Service Road will be reserved as emergency vehicle access only. Because of city planning staff concerns about traffic flow in and out of the site, all turning movements from the entrances at Service Road and Morgan Road would be limited to “rightin” and “right-out” only, accomplished with the construction of concrete me-

transformed into 74 affordable rental housing units. Now 100% occupied, it provides housing for low-income families, with a focus on Veteran residents, earning between 30% and 60% of Area Median Income.

The project is a three-story, mixed-use development with combinations of studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units, as well as 3,000 square feet of social service office space. Additionally, the property includes amenities such as solar energy, energy-efficient appliances, a computer lab/community center, a daycare, teen center for residents, and a central laundry facility available on all three

Due to COVID, the couple moved their wedding date to February 2021.

“Around late summer/early fall we knew that the February date would not work out, as COVID was at its peak and did not look like it would be getting better any time soon. So, we locked our plans of having our wedding in October of 2022 and preferred to have an outdoor venue so our guests would feel more comfortable rather than being enclosed indoors,” said Moreno.

Moreno and Saldana’s story is common for local couples, said Turlockbased wedding planner Lori Cole.

“We have numerous waves of weddings — those that got cancelled in 2021 moved to 2022, others never set a date because of what was going on until now and recently engaged couples from the holiday season,” said Cole. dians on Morgan and Service roads.

The AM/PM will include diesel as well as regular gas. It will also include two electric vehicle charging stations.

Acting Public Works Director Sam Royal questioned if the proposed trash enclosures will be adequate to serve the residents in the apartments. But he was told that city of Ceres Public Works Administrative Analyst Toni Cordell felt what is proposed is adequate.

The proponents are hopeful to be under construction in four to five months.

floors.

The development is close to local transit and other social services making it well suited to support Veteran residents.

“Liberty Square has brought life to a long-vacant commercial building while improving the infrastructure within this Midtown Stockton neighborhood,” said Carol Ornelas, CEO of Visionary Home Builders of California, Inc. “Liberty Square is already connecting our Veteran and other residents to nearby parks and services, to public transit, as well as walking and biking amenities.”

Founded in 1983, Visionary Home Builders of California,

Because of the increased number of couples planning for a 2022 wedding, Cole said venues have been booked out for months, leaving those trying to put together an event within six to 12 months scrambling to find a venue, caterer and other wedding services.

“We’ve been encouraging clients to go into next year and save yourself some stress. It might also be financially beneficial to wait until next year to see prices go down,” said Cole.

Cole said that supply-chain issues and staffing shortages has hit the wedding industry just as hard as other parts of the economy.

“Couples are having trouble finding all the vendors that they need for popular months — October, September, November. Out of our vendor pool, we have several people who are no longer in busi-

CLIFF

FROM PAGE 7 If after bringing your investor on board you decide to issue equity to another investor (or launch a venture capital round, if you are really successful), a “preemptive right” allows your investor to buy additional equity in your company

Inc. is a nonprofit housing development company and housing counseling agency based in Stockton. It has built and rehabilitated more than 1,400 units of rental housing and more than 900 residential homes for first time homebuyers within San Joaquin, Sacramento, Stanislaus and Merced counties. VHB has brought more than $700 million dollars in grants and private dollars to develop affordable housing in the Valley. In addition, VHB is a HUD approved Housing Counseling Agency.

For more information, please call 209-466-6811 or visit the website at www.visionaryhomebuilders.org.

ness. Our main rental company, due to staffing issues, is no longer delivering to our prime venue areas,” said Cole.

She said that some popular wedding flowers are now double the price per stem, wedding gowns are taking longer to be created and shipped and caterers are turning down larger events due to serving staff shortages, a problem that Moreno and Saldana have also encountered.

“Our headcount is 275 plus and because this is a high number, we have had some catering services decline due to being short staffed. Luckily, we found a Mexican food caterer out of Delhi who will be serving us buffet style,” said Moreno.

Cole said flexibility is the key for couples keeping their cool while trying to plan a wedding right now.

at the same price you offer subsequent investors in an amount sufficient to maintain his or her percentage ownership in the company.

Putting this clause in the agreement will make your investor happy, but subsequent investors may not like it. I would leave it out unless your investor makes it a “deal point” in the negotiations.

keeping businesses connected™

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NEWS

OIL

FROM PAGE 5 ily Olive Co. North Points (Paso Robles), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Eleganza Elite (San Miguel), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Tuscaneiki (San Miguel) Italian Singles: Rio Bravo Ranch Coratina (Bakersfield) Other Blends: OH Olive Oil (Bakersfield) Other Singles: Rosenthal Olive Ranch Koroneiki (Madera), Organic Roots Koroneiki (Maxwell), ENZO Olive Oil Company Delicate (Clovis) Flavored Olive Oils GOLD MEDAL WINNERS Citrus: Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Lavish Lime (Lodi), ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Clementine Crush (Clovis) Herbal: Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Bountiful Basil (Lodi), Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Rustic Rosemary (Lodi), Sciabica’s California Olive Oil Basil (Modesto) Pepper: Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Habanero (Lodi), Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Hot Virgin Jalapeno (Lodi), The Olive Press Jalapeno (Sonoma), Sciabica’s California Olive Oil Jalapeno (Modesto) SILVER MEDAL WINNERS Citrus: Coldani Olive Ranch’s Calivirgin Lusty Lemon (Lodi), Sciabica’s California Olive Oil Lemon (Modesto), ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Lemon Crush (Clovis) Herbal: ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Basil Crush (Clovis) Pepper: ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Fresno Chili Crush (Clovis), Coldani Olive Ranch Calivirgin Jalapeno Garlic (Lodi) Other: Coldani Olive Ranch Guilty Garlic (Lodi), Rancho Azul y Oro Olive Farm Smoked (San Miguel) “We could not be more pleased with the number of entries submitted by these amazing California olive oil producers – making this year’s entries tied for the most entries received since 2017,” said Stacy Rianda, Deputy Manager II at The Big Fresno Fair. “This year the com-

petition saw new submissions by students at Fresno State and then our first San Diego County entry, Toothacre Ranch – with both producers winning Gold. It’s a rewarding feeling to be able to showcase these new and returning Californiaproduced olive oils through this competition highlighting the incredible olive oil made right here in the State of California.”

Gold Medal and Best of Show winners will have the opportunity to have a booth in the Agriculture Building on one day during a weekend at the 2022 Big Fresno Fair or have a booth at the Fair’s Beer and Wine Festival on Saturday, Oct. 8.

At either location, they will have the opportunity to display and sell their award-winning product. Additionally, educational information will be set up so that Fairgoers can learn more about the art of making olive oil, its health benefits, recipes and more.

Gold Medals were awarded to an olive oil that demonstrated its type and/or varietal character, balance, structure and complexities to the highest standards. Gold Medals were awarded to those oils receiving scores between 86 - 100 points.

Silver Medals were awarded to an olive oil reflecting the correct distribution of balance and character of its type or variety; an oil deemed to be well crafted and of excellent quality. Silver Medals were awarded to those oils receiving scores between 76 - 85 points.

Best of Show: Awarded to an olive oil recognized to possess special characteristics of the highest quality overall. Best of the Valley: Awarded to the oil that scored the highest with the ranch or office located in the San Joaquin Valley. Medals were awarded for both EVOO and flavored oils.

(Kern, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera, Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties eligible) The Big Fresno Fair, founded in 1884, is the fourth largest fair in the state of California and represents the 21st District Agricultural Association. More than 600,000 people from throughout the State visit The Big Fresno Fair each year making it the largest annual event in the Central Valley. The 2022 Big Fresno Fair will run Oct. 5-16.

FRUIT

FROM PAGE 3 we’ve started doing turnovers, cookies and other smaller pastries like cinnamon rolls and morning buns,” he said. “We felt as if people travelling through this area or casually walking buy could grab something smaller instead of a whole pie, which is why we also added coffee and fresh drinks like orange juice.”

He added that nearly every single recipe for their baked goods come straight from the mind of original owner Josie Cipponeri, and that those recipes are shared with a select few members

of the current J&J team.

Ramos believes that the public has an appreciation for products that are fresh and locally grown, and it is evident in their recent success.

“Right now, cherries are selling and the new additions to the bakery have become really popular. In the summer, its peaches, peaches and more peaches, so we’re looking forward to that,” Ramos joked.

Ramos explained that the success was a key part in the decision to build the new warehouse. He described the process of building the warehouse as long and laborious, but it was something he and his family were ac-

BAKERY

customed to by growing up in agriculture and working in orchards and fields.

“It was tough. We were out here every day, even in the middle of summer when it was burning hot, but I love the way it all came together.

We wanted to make this a clean and convenient space for people to grab fresh produce at any time,” he said.

J&J Farms sell most of their produce based on the season. Ramos explained that easiest way to keep track of what is in season and what is available at the warehouse is to follow the business on Instagram at @JJRamosFarms and on Facebook at @JJProduceAnd Bakery.

BOATHOUSE

FROM PAGE 4

FROM PAGE 5

“I’ll be baking at Lisa’s on a regular basis there while still continuing my home-based cottage operation as well,” Bates explained. “I feel blessed that she has allowed me to bake alongside her and see first-hand what having a small bakery downtown would feel like, as well as experience the business side of a commercial bakery.”

Bates explained that the new operations within Lisa’s Cookie Jar will allow customers to order her creations inperson. Nevertheless, ordering by phone, email or social media will continue to be an option for customers.

“I just feel like this business has blessed me,” Bates said. “It’s been a lot of fun blessing others with their treats. It’s been very, very fulfilling.”

taurant sits on.

It will access an area in the future employment center where overflow parking will be put in place.

“The pressure of trying to locate a supermarket has been take off with Sprouts breaking ground,” Dell’Osso said of the trendy market that is opening just north of the planned community on River islands Parkway in the target shopping center along Interstate 5.

There are plans to eventually site a market in the southern village with offerings similar to a Sprouts.

The planned commu-

nity is purposely eschewing seeking the big players in retail and dining.

There are already plenty of options among genres ranging from big to small box retailers as well as chains with smaller footprints in nearby Tracy and Manteca. At the same time Lathrop is seeing growing success in landing such concerns.

The community design as well as the location is not really conducive to such large scale commercial endeavors that draw from a larger region.

And perhaps most important, River Islands is pursuing commercial areas that blend into its overall theme of creating walkable neighborhoods with a strong sense of community.

keeping businesses connected™ 209BUSINESSJOURNAL.COM

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PROMOTIONS, APPOINTMENTS, HONORS, ETC. Bill Hoobler and Mike Machado Appointed to California Farmland Trust’s Board of Directors

California Farmland Trust has added Bill Hoobler and Mike Machado as new board members.

Hoobler and Machado have been active supporters of CFT for several years and bring a wealth of institutional knowledge and deep-rooted passion to the organization.

“Bill and Mike both offer a talented skillset and valuable expertise to the board, and their combined Bill Hoobler knowledge in policy and finance will be tremendous additions to our organization,” said Charlotte Mitchell, executive director at California Farmland Mike Machado Trust. “We are thrilled to have such accomplished individuals join the board and look forward to working towards continued success, in service to our critical mission.”

Since 2018, Hoobler has served as a CFT committee member and dedicated his professional life to the agriculture industry. He worked in the Farm Credit system for over 39 years, specializing in lending and crop insurance, before retiring in 2016 and starting his own crop insurance agency in Patterson.

“Being involved with CFT since 2018 has been rewarding,” Hoobler said. “California farmland needs to be protected and CFT is just one way to assure that farmland will remain farmland, forever.”

Machado, a Linden native, grew up on his family’s over-100-year-old farming operation and returned to the family business after serving in Vietnam. Machado also served 14 years to the California

State Legislature, where he focused on water, banking, insurance, and budget accountability. In 2015, Machado and his family placed an agricultural conservation easement on their family farm, and later in 2021, Machado protected an additional two parcels.

“Without agriculture, we don’t eat,” Machado said. “Without farmland, we don’t have agriculture. That is why the work of California Farmland Trust is so important.”

Hoobler and Machado join the existing 11 members of CFT’s board of directors and will both serve on the Budget, Finance, and Risk Management committee.

Adventist Health Sonora selects new Chief Medical Officer

Adventist Health Sonora has selected Dr. Stephanie Stuart as the new Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Stuart started her new role on May 1.

Dr. Stuart is a boardcertified emergency medicine physician and has been with the Adventist Health Sonora Emergency Department since Stephanie Stuart 2011. She has a background of leadership including the position of Chief of Staff for the Adventist Health Sonora Medical Executive Committee from 2020 through 2021. Dr. Stuart has also worked as President/CEO of Sierra Emergency Medical Group, a physician group that employs 21 physicians and providers.

Dr. Stuart completed her residency at Baylor Scott and White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas. She earned her medical degrees from John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. She was born in Sonora.

Port of Stockton Employee of the Year

Everardo Mendoza was named the Port of Stockton’s Employee of the Year for 2021.

Mendoza has been employed by the

Port for 20 years. He was hired in August 2001 as a Lift Driver in the Warehouse Operations department and was promoted to Warehouse Foreman in 2003 until he transferred to the Maintenance Department in 2016 as a General Laborer.

Everardo has demonstrated outstanding job perfor mance, has gone above and beyond expectations, and has shown Everado Mendoza great initiative with a “cando” and positive attitude. He takes pride in the projects he is involved in, can be counted on to do quality work, and fills in for others when needed.

Modesto man appointed to State Independent Living Council

Dwight H. Bateman, 61, of Modesto, has been appointed to the State Independent Living Council.

Bateman held several positions at the Department of Rehabilitation from 2009 to 2020, including Grant Administrator, Volunteer Appeals Board Member and Volunteer Disaster Services, Functional Assessment Service Team Member. He held several positions at the State Independent Living Center from 1995 to 2007, including Executive Director, Service Provider and Board Member.

Bateman is a member of the National Council for Independent Living and Stanislaus County of In-Home Supportive Services Advisory Committee. He is chair of the Rehabilitation Appeals Board.

Lockeford man appointed to fair board

Bates Troy Bowers Jr., 71, of Lockeford, has been appointed to the 2nd District Agricultural Association (San Joaquin County Fair Board).

Bowers was Chief Executive Officer at the Amador County Fair from 2007 to 2019. He was Deputy Manager II at the San Joaquin County Fair from 1992 to 2005. Bowers held several positions

at the Department of Transportation, District 10 from 2005 to 2007, including Program Analyst and Public Information Officer.

Bowers served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1973. Bowers is a member of the Plymouth Foothills Rotary Club.

Turlock woman re-appointed to water control board

Dorene D’Adamo of Turlock has been re-appointed to another four year term on the State Water Resources Control Board.

D’Adamo was first appointed to the board in 2013. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the re-appointment recently. It is contingent upon State Senate confirmation.

Shanae Kerr appointed to BAC Community Bank executive team

Shanae Kerr has been appointed to the executive team of locally-owned BAC Community Bank as Executive Vice President, Chief Risk Officer.

“Over the past 20 years, Shanae has been instrumental in advancing the Bank’s reputation of safety Shanae Kerr and stability.

She is relied upon by the Board’s Audit Committee to ensure that regulatory compliance and risk mitigation are effectively managed,” said Dana Bockstahler, Chief Executive Officer. “The promotion is well deserved and we are excited she is joining the executive team.”

Kerr started her banking career as a credit analyst after receiving her Bachelor’s degree from California State University Hayward with a focus on Finance and Economics. Over the years, she has enhanced her skills and abilities through various forms of continued education and on-the-job experience. Most recently she earned a graduate certificate from the Pacific Coast Banking School.

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It takes a powerful forklift to raise the air quality.

WELCOME TO THE PORT OF TOMORROW. We all breathe the same air. So, the Port of Stockton is doing everything in its power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants. Our fleet of zero-emission forklifts, energy-efficient railcar mover, and 30 electric charging stations are already having a noticeable impact. The Port helps ship operators maintain air quality compliance, as well, with visible emissions monitoring. And we will continue to search for new ways to keep our air clean for the generations who follow.

AIR WILDLIFE SOIL + SEDIMENTS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUSTAINABILITY

Chair Anthony Barkett, Vice-Chair Michael Patrick Duffy Commissioners R. Jay Allen, David B. Atwater, Gary Christopherson, Stephen Griffen, William Trezza Port Director Kirk DeJesus

For more information: Call 855-881-8816 portofstockton.com/port-of-tomorrow