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For all that is Central Valley. For all that is you.
For all that is Silicon Valley. For all that is you.
AA Message From The President & CEO
By Trish Christensen ElEction
s we welcome October and the election season, we focus our attention on local campaigns. Our Government Relations Council has extended its invitation for candidates and incumbents to participate in our written interview process. Participation is optional, but for those who choose to engage, we’ve included one common question and response in this edition. For the complete set of questions and responses from each candidate, organized by race, please visit our website. Due to space limitations, we are unable to include all responses in the magazine. Please note that we publish each response exactly as submitted, both in print and online.
I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight the Modesto Chamber's strong partnerships with elected officials, from Congress to our City Council. These relationships are vital in advocating for our business community, fostering a collaborative environment where, despite occasional varying perspectives, we consistently meet in the middle and work together to make our community the best it can be.
We are equally proud of our alliances with the California Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which amplify our efforts on state and national levels to ensure policies that support local economic growth.
Our partnerships also extend to local school boards, educational institutions, water boards, and utility and
SEaSon 2024
transportation partners. These collaborations are crucial in preparing future leaders and ensuring our infrastructure supports a thriving business environment.
These connections reflect our ongoing commitment to fostering a prosperous community in Modesto and beyond.
I’d like to wrap up by inviting you to engage with us at some exciting upcoming events. On October 30th, we’ll be hosting our inaugural Stanislaus Economic Summit, a breakfast event featuring guest speaker Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. On November 19th, join us for our 2nd annual Regional Multi-Chamber Mixer, co-hosted by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and Kaiser Permanente. This event will be held at Del Rio Country Club, includes a non-perishable food drive, and is free and open to all. Finally, on November 20th, we will host our 3rd Inspire Youth Inspire Dreams Career Exploration Expo for 8th graders. We encourage businesses from every sector— industry, entrepreneurial, and beyond—to participate. For more details on all of these events, please visit our website.
Thank you for your continued support.
With warm regards, Trish
Each member of the Chamber is important, no matter the size of business. We desire for local businesses and organizations to succeed and thrive. To reach this goal we provide exposure, opportunities to engage with Regional Electeds and community partners, as well as networking with businesses and organizations across industries. We work to better our community by providing up-to-date education and training, certifying qualifying businesses as Green, and providing advocacy on City, State, and Federal levels. The Chamber is a family of dedicated professionals striving to make a difference in their business and way of life. Whatever your business needs are, we invite you to join us.
To execute our adopted mission we have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”
C - Community
At its heart, the Modesto Chamber is a community of like-minded business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live, work and play. With over 100 years of history and experience in the Greater Modesto Area, we understand what it means to be a business owner and customer in our community, with featured events such as local and regional forums, Ag Aware, Harvest Luncheon, and Family Day. Chamber members get the opportunity to actively engage in and influence the community they live and work in.
A - Advocacy
The Modesto Chamber supports local businesses and is an active advocate for the common interest of its members. The Chamber has an Economic Development Committee and a Government Relations Council. These advocacy committees are dedicated and proactive in representing our members and community. They work to address business initiatives and relieve the regulatory burdens businesses face may face. The Chamber is also honored to certify local businesses and organizations through our California Green Business Network Stanislaus Program. Through this we create more conscientious and sustainable ways of life while lowering the cost of doing business for our community and future generations.
R - Relationships
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce specializes in building relationships and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies. With over a dozen Committees, Programs, and Events in which our members can participate, the Chamber offers ample opportunity to meet and connect with other business owners in our community. As a relational organization, the Chamber works with its members to ensure the opportunity to connect and grow in every niche and industry to help build and cultivate long-lasting relationships among business owners and community partners alike.
E - Education
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce values education and offers members the opportunity to stay on the leading edge with new and emerging information and training that will set your business apart from the rest. In partnership with Modesto Junior College, the Chamber is pleased to offer an assortment of trainings applicable to any business or industry for credited completion through our Chamber University platform. Our Chamber also works with members to provide a platform to speak to their own industry expertise and invite other members to learn from those leading our local industries.
S - Service
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce offers its members a wide range of opportunities to promote and engage their business across industry and community lines. The Chamber Weekly E-Blast, Website, and our Progress Magazine provide opportunities to advertise and promote your business, keep up to date with articles about local businesses in our community, and stay in the loop about up-and-coming Chamber and community events. Our Chamber also offers indemand materials, such as Member contact list, Federal and State compliance posters, export document services, and so much more. Chamber members can also personalize their business profile within our website and have access to our Member-Only Information Center, where members can connect with other members, boost their social media presence, promote job postings, public events, and member-to-member discounts.
MISSIOn StatEMEnt
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.
ExEcUtIVE cOMMIttEE
Chairperson – Kirstie Boyett Zacharias, American Leadership Forum- Great Valley Chapter
Immediate Past Chairman – Michael Gaffney, Pacific Gas & Electric
Vice Chairman, Internal Operations – Pat Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum, CPA
Vice Chairman, External Operations – John Villines
bOard OF dIrEctOrS
Garrett Ardis - Huff Construction Company Inc.
Brad Blakely - Edward Jones
Kirstie Boyett Zacharias - American Leadership Forum- Great Valley Chapter
Aphriekah DuHaney West - Kaiser Permanente
Michael Gaffney-PG&E
Pat Gillum - Pat Gillum Cpa's
Victor Gomez Terres - Blue Diamond Growers
David Halvorson Jr. - Resurrection Brands
Amy Jefferies - Gianelli Nielsen
Courtney Lagorio - F&M Bank
Brian McDermott - NTT
Michael Moradian Jr. - Peace of Mind Pest Control & Home Inspections
Allan Morris - Bank of Stockton
Peggy O'Donnell - Mid Valley Promotions
Edgar Perez - American AgCredit
Stephen Qualls - Central Valley Division of the League of California Cities
Jonathan Raymond - BBSI
Bill Robinson - Prinicpal Financial
Kari Santos - IJ Larsen Pumps
Christine Schweininger - Valley Builders Exchange, Inc.
Dejeune Shelton - Modesto Junior College
Community Education
John Villines - Modesto Gospel Mission
Kelly Tallant-Martin - Vintage Fair Mall
Laura Ward - Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions
President & CEO
Trish Christensen Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org
Central valley business Expo Modesto Centre Plaza 1000 L St, Modesto, CA 95354
rise and Shine with CEO’s 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
*Register on website
Grand Opening – Grand Opening Famous Dave's 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM 3401 Dale Rd, Suite 483, Modesto
Government relations Council meeting 1114 J Street, Modesto
*In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website
regional mixer hosted by Kaiser 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Inspire Youth Inspire Dreams Expo 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Ambassador & Welcome Team
*In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M. 1114 J Street, Modesto
*See website for more detail.
Find Zoom Registry links and more at www.modchamber.org
Please note that calendar events and details are subject to change.
Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Saturday, Oct. 26th, 2024
Presented by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce
WHAT
IS TOUCH-A-TRUCK MODESTO?
TOUCH-A-TRUCK is a hands-on event for families in the community to explore and learn about the trucks, equipment, and businesses that help keep Modesto running and growing. The event will feature a variety of vehicles, vendors, and entertainment to provide an engaging and fun experience for all.
WHY TOUCH-A-TRUCK IN MODESTO?
The purpose of the event is to create a fun day for kids and families that inspire the youth in the community towards various career opportunities that exist in our community.
WHEN AND WHERE?
Saturday, October 26th, 2024 MJC Ag Pavilion
WHO IS PARTICIPATING?
• The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is the presenting organization.
• Title Sponsorship, Big Rig, Heavy Duty, and Feature Sponsorships are available!
• Trucks, Tractors, and Equipment on display will come from organizations such as: City of Modesto Utility Services, Modesto Police, Modesto Fire Department, Modesto EMS, Construction, Paving, Buses, Goods/Materials Transport, Ag/Landscape Tractors, Electrical, Dealerships, and other cool trucks.
WHAT
DO THE FUNDS GO TOWARDS?
Proceeds from the event will fund scholarships through the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation. We would like to work with the sponsoring organizations to identify areas of study that would maximize the benefit to our partners and the community.
EQUIPMENT LOANS
annOUncEMEntS
Thank you to our sponsor:
OCTOBER 18, 2024 11:30AM - 1:00PM
PRESENTATION SPEAKER:
Kevin Wise, Fire Chief, Modesto Fire Department
TOPIC:
An update on the Modesto Fire Department
October 2, 2024 11:30AM - 1:00PM
SPEAKER: Toby Wells, Director, Engineering Services Department, City Engineer, City of Modesto
TOPIC:
Standiford/Beckwith Interchange & More: Major Public Works Projects
Local Knowledge + National Resources
The Best of Both W rlds
Our partnership with HUB International has made it possible to offer our clients more than ever before. The combination of our local knowledge and expertise along with the resources of one of the nation’s premier insurance companies allows us to bring you creative and cost-effective solutions that can make a world of difference to you and your business. Call us today and find out what we can do for you.
English Oaks convalescent & rehabilitation hospital: Offering Unique Post-acute Services to central Valley residents
By Deanna Hill, Administrator of English Oaks Convalescent & Rehabilitation Hospital, a Generations Healthcare facility
As the administrator of English Oaks Convalescent & Rehabilitation Hospital, I have come to believe our organization’s mission wholeheartedly: “Caring for the sick, the elderly, and the infirm is a special and sacred stewardship.” That’s why we are pleased to be able to offer some unique services to the residents of the Central Valley. Here are just three:
1. English Oaks is the only facility in the Central Valley that the American Heart Association has awarded a Skilled Nursing Facility Heart Failure certification. This means that our patients can trust that we will provide world-class heart failure treatment strategies as we work toward healing together.
“This certification benefits the patient and the facility by standardizing care coordination practices between discharge and the skilled nursing facility,” said Ileana L. Piña, MD, MPH, a heart failure/ transplant cardiologist who helped develop the criteria for the certification. “When there is clear communication between every phase of care, patients have the best opportunity for positive outcomes.”
Additionally, we are trained in the Zoll LifeVest, a wearable cardioverter defibrillator that provides protection and peace of mind for patients with heart failure and other serious health conditions.
2. We specialize in helping our patients restore function by meeting their specific needs. Our specialized services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and wound care. When a new patient is admitted into our facility, we coordinate with them, their family, and our care team to set goals and plan which of our services and therapies will best help meet those goals.
These services are vital because “Older adults often experience functional decline following acute medical care,” according to a 2019 paper in the Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research. “Postacute care aims to promote the functional recovery of older adults, prevent unnecessary hospital readmission, and avoid premature admission to a long-term care facility.”
3. At English Oaks, we are contracted with a number of managed care plans serving the Central Valley, including Medicare, Kaiser, Anthem Blue Cross, CareMore, and Sutter Health. We are happy to be able to provide services to a wide range of patients in our area because of these relationships.
It is an honor to help our residents become stronger each day. If you have any questions about our facility, visit us at lifegen.net/location/englishoaks-convalescent-and-rehabilitation-hospital.
English Oaks is part of Generations Healthcare, a network of 30 skilled nursing facilities serving California and Nevada residents for the past 24 years.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce
CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
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digital Marketing's Impact on Elections ~ harnessing Online Strategies for Your campaign
Written by Kathryn Kim Ramos, Sisbro Innovation Website and Digital Marketing Consultant
In today's digital age, digital marketing has a more significant influence on elections than ever. Political campaigns have evolved beyond traditional methods, embracing online platforms to reach a wider audience, engage with voters, and effectively promote their messages. If you're organizing an election or running for office, leveraging digital marketing can be a game-changer. Conversely, lacking a digital presence may result in missed opportunities and diminished local support.
The Power of Digital marketing in Elections
Digital marketing offers numerous advantages for electoral campaigns:
broader reach: Online platforms allow candidates to connect with a vast audience beyond geographical limitations. Social media, email campaigns, and targeted ads enable you to reach voters who might not be accessible through traditional channels.
Cost-Effective Engagement: Digital campaigns can be more affordable than traditional media like TV or print ads. This is particularly beneficial for smaller campaigns with limited budgets.
Targeted Advertising: Platforms like Facebook and Google Ads allow precise targeting based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. This ensures your message reaches the right people at the right time.
real-Time Feedback and Interaction: Social media facilitates direct communication with voters. You can receive immediate feedback, address concerns, and build relationships with constituents.
Data Analytics: Digital tools provide insights into voter engagement, helping you refine your strategies. You can track which messages resonate most and adjust your approach accordingly.
Implementing Digital marketing for Your Election
To effectively use digital marketing in your campaign, consider the following strategies:
Develop a Strong Online Presence: Create a professional website that outlines your platform, background, and contact information. Ensure it's mobile-friendly and easy to navigate.
Leverage Social Media: Establish profiles on platforms where your target audience is most active. Post updates regularly, engage with followers, and convey messages using multimedia content like videos and infographics.
Email marketing: Build an email list to inform supporters about campaign news, events, and volunteer opportunities. Personalize your communications to increase engagement.
Content marketing: Write blog posts, opinion pieces, and articles highlighting your stance on important issues.
By sharing valuable content, you become a thought leader and build trust with voters.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize your website and content with relevant keywords so that voters can easily find you when searching online.
Online Advertising: Invest in targeted online ads to amplify your reach. Pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns can be tailored to specific demographics and are measurable, allowing you to see a clear return on investment.
The risk of Ignoring Digital Presence
Without a digital presence, your campaign may:
miss Out on voter Segments: Many voters rely on the Internet for information. Not being online means you're invisible to them.
Lose Competitive Edge: Opponents with a solid digital strategy can dominate the online conversation, swaying undecided voters.
Lack of Engagement Opportunities: Digital platforms offer unique ways to interact with voters. Missing out means fewer chances to build relationships and address concerns.
the Modesto chamber of commerce asked those seeking to represent the area at the federal, state, and city levels and irrigation district how do they evaluate the impact to business when making voting decisions.
candidate responses
John Duarte – republican Party – Incumbent: 2024
United States House of representatives, California District 13: “As a small business owner, I joined the Main Street Caucus in Congress to push for policies that cut regulations and provide tax incentives to support small businesses. It’s getting harder to run a business; my voting decisions are based on helping future generations have the same opportunities to start a business and live the American dream.”
Adam Gray – Democratic Party – Candidate: 2024
United States House of representatives, California District 13: “The US Chamber of Commerce has repeatedly ranked California as the #1 “Judicial Hellhole” in the nation because California business owners are constantly harassed by frivolous Prop 65, ADA, and PAGA lawsuits among others. California has also received an F grade for our overall business friendliness, ease of starting a business, business regulations, labor regulations, taxes, licensing forms, and environmental regulations. California business owners already face an uphill battle as they try to compete without the benefit of a level playing field.
I always consider California’s current business climate when evaluating new pieces of legislation. Most importantly, I listen to what local business owners are telling me about how new laws and regulations will impact their ability to run their businesses.
For example, AB 5 has decimated independent contractor jobs including exacerbating the supply chain crisis by disrupting employment in the trucking industry. The bill was rife with political favoritism and ignored the wishes of employers and employees alike. I was the only Democrat in the State Legislature to oppose the bill, and the problems it has caused since it was passed have only strengthened my resolve against the bill. I also stood up for Valley businesses by opposing SGMA,
card-check, and restrictions on domestic energy production.
I teamed up with Republicans and Democrats from the Valley when local business owners reported a spike in frivolous ADA lawsuits. We wrote bills to shield small businesses from extortion and provide an opportunity to cure any valid violations before being subjected to litigation.
I also passed new laws to crack down on workers' compensation fraud and expanded business tax credits to reward business owners who create more jobs in California.”
mike barkley – Democratic Party – Candidate: 2024
United States House of representatives, California District 5: - No response
Tom mcClintock – republican Party – Incumbent: 2024
United States House of representatives, California District 5: “I believe in free markets, free trade, and capitalism. Any measure that brings us closer to this ideal I support; and any measure that moves us further away I oppose. I believe the entire history of human civilization can be summed up in four words: “Freedom Works” and “Socialism Sucks.””
Juan Alanis – republican Party – Incumbent: 2024
California State Assembly District 22: “Local small businesses are the backbone of the California economy, and I have a solid record of voting to protect them from higher taxes and increased regulations. I seek advice from local businesses as well as information from entities who represent the business community in Sacramento.”
John Duarte
Adam Gray
mike barkley
Tom mcClintock
Juan Alanis
candidate responses
Jessica Self – Democratic Party – Candidate: 2024 California State Assembly District 22: - No response
Joel Campos – Candidate: modesto City Council District 1: “When making voting decisions, I would evaluate whether my vote streamlines business opportunities within the City for the private sector, and/or offers more work opportunities to publicly employed labor, without burdening the constrained city budget.”
attractive for business is a priority. Addressing the unsheltered issue effectively would do wonders.”
Austin Grant – Candidate: modesto City Council District 6: “Evaluating the impact of policies on businesses is essential, but it requires a balanced approach. Business growth is important for job creation and economic stability, but it must align with values like social justice, sustainability, and workers' rights.
rosa Escutia-braaton – Incumbent: modesto City Council District 1: “Whenever I am voting on an issue, I think about the potential ramifications for all of my constituents. During my time in office, I have consistently sought feedback from constituents, community leaders, and local business leaders. A thriving business sector is fundamental to having a vibrant city. Our business sector forms a portion of our tax base, is the source of employment for our residents, and an important part of our city’s identity. If reelected, I will continue to have an open door policy and hope to continue collaborating with local business representatives to improve the economic outlook for the City of Modesto.”
When making voting decisions, I consider how policies will promote a fair and equitable business environment. I support businesses that prioritize the well-being of their employees, contribute positively to the community, and adopt environmentally responsible practices. Policies that raise the minimum wage, and improve worker protections.
Small and local businesses are also vital to consider. They are the backbone of our communities and often face greater challenges compared to large corporations. I support policies that provide them with resources to innovate, compete, and grow sustainably.
Ultimately, business success should not come at the expense of marginalized communities or our environment. My decisions aim to create a thriving economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthiest. This perspective ensures businesses can succeed while advancing a fairer and more inclusive society.”
John Gunderson –Candidate: modesto City Council District 1: “I am concerned about anything that increases costs for businesses. Necessary to analyze the parameters of the agenda item and understand how it will affect business. I would listen to the business community’s concerns and have them explain their point of view. I am sensitive to the cost of doing business in California and understand the problem in the macro sense. Anything I can do to make Modesto
David Wright – Incumbent: modesto City Council District 6: “Being a business owner and having many business owners as customers I am always looking at how my voting on different items will impact our business community.
Adding my insight to council members on the impact of voting as a business owner has made a difference
Joel Campos
rosa Escutia-braaton
David Wright
John Gunderson
Austin Grant
candidate responses
in past voting on motions that might have hurt our business community. I will continue to make in the future to vote on items that will help our business community.”
Nick blom – modesto Irrigation District Division 5 – Incumbent: - No response.
Chris Ott – modesto Irrigation District Division 5 – Candidate : “All businesses are impacted by electrical costs. MID has 13,061 commercial accounts and 143 industrial accounts. Those accounts represent businesses both large and small that are impacted by MID rates. On the water side, we all know that agriculture is a major economic engine in our region and that there are many businesses that form part of our agricultural economy. For us, water availability is key to having a thriving economy. By protecting our water, we are also protecting local businesses that depend on it.”
Chris Ott
Leadership Modesto class of 2024: Paving the Way for a thriving community
The Leadership Modesto Class of 2024 is made up of over 20 professionals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal: to deepen their understanding of what makes the Modesto community thrive and to contribute toward its continued success. Through a series of immersive experiences, these participants are gaining unique insights into the city’s development, infrastructure, and future vision. The recent "Development & Infrastructure Day" highlighted the powerful role that collaboration and innovative thinking play in shaping Modesto’s future.
Development Day: Exploring What makes modesto move
The "Development & Infrastructure Day" took the class on a journey through Modesto’s key service providers and infrastructure hubs. The group had the privilege of visiting the Modesto Irrigation District (MID), the City of Modesto’s service facility, and exploring the cities intricacies of traffic infrastructure. These visits were eye-opening, giving participants a chance to understand how these systems keep the city running smoothly. They even had the exciting opportunity to create and pitch their own "Modesto 2050" plan, an exercise in envisioning the city's future.
modesto Irrigation District: Powering the Community
MID’s General Manager Jimi Netniss provided the class with a fascinating overview of MID’s rich history and its vital role in providing irrigation since 1903 and electric services since 1923 to the community. MID has been instrumental in supporting Modesto’s growth and remains a key player in ensuring the city's sustainability and affordability. As a not-for-profit organization, Netniss assured the group that MID’s
revenue is being paid back to customers in the form of lower rates rather than to shareholders like many other utilities.
City of modesto Utilities: Water, Sewer, and Storm Systems in Action
Will Wong, Director of Utilities for the City of Modesto, walked the group through the essential services that keep the city functioning. From the water supply to sewer systems and storm drainage, Wong's presentation revealed the complexities of managing these systems and ensuring they meet the needs of Modesto’s growing population. The highlight of this discussion was his information on the cutting-edge process Modesto used to water from the sewer into something completely safe use to water crops.
Public Works and Forestry: maintaining a modern modesto
Public Works Director Bill Sandu shed light on the challenges Modesto faces with aging urban forestry and how Measure M has provided much-needed funding to improve maintenance efforts. Sandu emphasized how the extra resources have enabled public works to modernize and maintain key parts of the city, contributing to Modesto’s well-being and appearance.
Navigating modesto’s Traffic: A Look into the Future
Traffic is an issue close to every Modestan’s heart, but relief is in sight. Traffic experts Mark Murphy and Max
Leadership Modesto class of 2024: Paving the Way for a thriving community
▶ cOntInUEd FrOM PagE 28
Navarro provided a fascinating look into the cuttingedge technology being implemented to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. The advancements they are spearheading promise a more efficient and safer driving experience for Modesto’s future.
City of modesto 2050 vision: Shaping the Future Together
The day wrapped up with a discussion of the City of Modesto's 2050 Vision. This long-term plan aims to tackle the challenges of growth while maintaining the city's unique character. Participants gained valuable insights into the difficulty of creating such an ambitious vision and learned how residents can actively participate in shaping Modesto’s future. Those interested in contributing can get involved by visiting the Modesto 2050 Vision at gp2050.modestogov. com.
The Leadership Modesto Class of 2024 is more inspired than ever to continue learning and contributing to the
community they call home. Through partnerships, shared knowledge, and community engagement, they are learning to play a role in shaping a brighter future for Modesto.
EXPLORATION FOR 8TH GRADERS PRESENTED BY THE MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE
November 20th 2024 9:00AM - 3:00PM
This event brings together over 3,000 students from across Stanislaus County with local businesses, offering an invaluable opportunity to inspire and guide our future workforce as they prepare for high school, college, and beyond.
Seminar on Online Business
CONNECTING OUR FUTURE COMMUNITY’S WORKFORCE WITH TODAY’S BUSINESSES
Some businesses are content to have no other online presence than a Facebook page, and never think of how that looks to customers. While Facebook is a wonderful complement to a company website, it is by no means a realistic replacement. And not everybody has a Facebook account anymore. Let us help you build your new website. Visit us at 209multimedia.com/webdesign to get started.
