Progress Magazine - September 2024

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Choose a health care partner that’s better for your business today, and tomorrow.

Choose a health care partner that’s better for your business today, and tomorrow.

Proud sponsor of the Silicon Valley Business Journal Latinx Business Leadership Awards

Remote, hybrid, in-person. Today’s workforce needs care that effortlessly meets them where they are. More than ever, workforce health is a business strategy. Choose a leader who can help you navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Learn more at kp.org/choosebetter

Remote, hybrid, in-person. Today’s workforce needs care that effortlessly meets them where they are. More than ever, workforce health is a business strategy. Choose a leader who can help you navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Learn more at kp.org/choosebetter

For all that is Central Valley. For all that is you.

For all that is Silicon Valley. For all that is you.

A Message From The President & CEO

RetReat foR StRategic Road Mapping day!

Retreat for Strategic Road Mapping Day!

I decided this month I would just share some highlights from an impactful and energetic planning day with my board of directors, facilitated by Dave Kilby! Why is this exciting? Well, Dave has been a mentor from afar since I was voted in as CEO of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, that’s why!

Dave retired from his role as Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs for California Chamber 18 months ago. He had also been President of Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) for 34 of his 35 years at Cal Chamber. The only other employer Dave ever had was…. Modesto Chamber of Commerce! He served as the Vice President here from July 1977 until he made CEO in the fall of 1980. Under his leadership our chamber grew to a membership high in the 1500’s. After 11 years here, he started at Cal Chamber, November 1,1988.

During his time at Cal Chamber Dave served as the California Chamber’s lobbyist on small business, economic development, housing, and land use. He was also a longtime member of the US Chamber’s Committee of 100 and their Political Advocacy Committee. Since I started at Modesto Chamber I began engaging with Cal Chamber. More consistently I connected with W.A.C.E. and their chamber executive academy where Dave taught several of the classes I took throughout my three-year program. I’ve had many great opportunities to get to know Dave some and learn from him a ton!

I share all this simply to relay that Dave is an extraordinary chamber industry professional, teacher, and mentor. He knows this industry like few others. I am so thankful he accepted my invitation to bring light, energy, insight, and engagement to our leadership team, the Board of Directors of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. We had such a spirited and uplifting day together. I thank you all~

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

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce

209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org

Graphic design: 209 Magazine

209.634.9141 • www.209magazine.com

Printer: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141 • hvanderveen@209magazine.com distribution: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141

advertising sales: crogers@oakdaleleader.com 209.845.4074

Modesto ChaMber of CoMMerCe I

CHAMBER CALENDAR

Harvest Luncheon

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Ag Pavilion - 2201 Blue Gum Ave, Modesto, CA 95358

*Register on website

member mix and mingle

Modesto Children's Museum

928 11th St, Modesto, CA 95354 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

rising professionals Lunch & Learn 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

*Register on website

economic Development committee

1114 J Street, Modesto 11:30 A.M – 1:00 PM

*Register on website, in person & Zoom

Women in business evening social 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

*Register on website

Ambassador & Welcome team

*In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

1114 J Street, Modesto

Government relations council meeting

1114 J Street, Modesto

*In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

economic Development committee 1114 J Street, Modesto

12:00 P.M – 1:30 PM

*Register on website, in person & Zoom

multi-chamber mixer

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Turlock Chamber of Commerce

rise and shine with ceo’s 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

*Register on website

Women in business coffee & connect

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

*Register on website

Ambassador & Welcome team

*In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M. 1114 J Street, Modesto

Government relations council meeting 1114 J Street, Modesto

*In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

members mix and mingle - tri counties bank 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

touch -A- truck Family event 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Ag Pavilion - 2201 Blue Gum Ave, Modesto, CA 95358

*Open to the Public

economic summitt

Morning Session

Del Rio Country Club

*Register on website

*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.

announCeMents

The Modesto Gospel Mission is excited to announce its 2024 Fall Gala featuring a live performance from special guest WE ARE MESSENGERS on September 14th! For the first time, this event will be hosted by Calvary Chapel Modesto! Building off of last year’s success, we expect our largest turnout to date! Please see the following sponsorship opportunities to partner with the Mission for our biggest fundraiser in recent memory. This year, 100% of the sponsorship dollars, as well as all other revenue, will be used directly toward the construction of a new women’s and children’s shelter in Modesto. This shelter, named Hannah’s House, will help provide an additional 95 beds for our community’s most vulnerable individuals. Your sponsorship will help rewrite the stories of families for generations to come. We look forward to partnering with you on this event.

The evening will be filled with transformational testimonies of men and women who have stayed at the Mission. There will be a worship concert performed by “WE ARE MESSENGERS”, a silent auction, and delicious food. This is a special night that will be entertaining and fun, but will also inspire people in our community to become the hands and feet of Jesus alongside the Modesto Gospel Mission. Please consider helping us host this Gala by sponsoring today.

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

Featuring Special Guest:

SEPTEMBER 14, 2024

SATURDAY 5-9PM

DIAMOND SPONSOR

$20,000

Uniquely featured as Title Sponsor on all marketing materials

Your logo on all printed media - Posters, Flyers, Gala Programs & Banner

Sponsorship announcement, your logo on all social media

Featured sponsor on our website + website

article + exclusive announcement

sent out to our

15 Premium seating tickets to Gala

SPONSOR

$7,500 EMERALD SPONSOR

Your logo

$2,500 SILVER SPONSOR

$500

PRESENTING SPONSOR

$10,000

For more information, please contact Scott Pernice at 209.225.2912 or by email scott@mymission.org

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.

Web Design

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH

6:00PM-10:00PM | 928 11TH STREET

Join us at our first annual gala as we toast to a year of learning at MoChiMu! Every ticket sold supports our museum fund, sustaining the Modesto Children’s Museum for years to come!

HARVEST LUNCHEON 62ND HARVEST LUNCHEON

SPONSORS

AGRICFO ADVISORY & FINANCIAL

BANK OF AMERICA

BANK OF STOCKTON

BURCHELL NURSERY

CALIFORNIA POULTRY FEDERATION

FLORY INDUSTRIES

GARTON TRACTOR, INC

GIANELLI FRIEDMAN & JEFFRIES

GRIMBLEBY COLEMAN ADVISORS & ACCOUNTANTS

H.M. CLAUSE INC

MID VALLEY AGRICULTURAL SERVICES INC.

MID VALLEY IT

MODESTO IRRIGATION DISTRICT

MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE FOUNDATION

OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK

ROSS W. LEE, INC.

SATAKE USA INC.

STANISLAUS COUNTY FARM BUREAU

STANISLAUS CWA

HARVEST LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

Frank Mitloehner, Ph.D.

Professor and Cooperative Extension Air Quality Specialist Director, CLEAR Center Department of Animal Science University of California

Dr. Frank Mitloehner is a professor and air quality specialist in cooperative extension in the Department of Animal Science at UC Davis. As such, he shares his knowledge and research, both domestically and abroad, with students, scientists, farmers and ranchers, policy makers, and the public at large. Frank is also director of the CLEAR Center, which has two cores – research and communications. The CLEAR Center brings clarity to the intersection of animal agriculture and the environment, helping our global community understand the environmental and human health impacts of livestock, so we can make informed decisions about the foods we eat and while reducing environmental impacts.

Frank is committed to making a difference for generations to come. As part of his position with UC Davis and Cooperative Extension, he collaborates with the animal agriculture sector to create better efficiencies and mitigate pollutants. He is passionate about understanding and mitigating air emissions from livestock operations, as well as studying the implications of these emissions on the health of farm workers and neighboring communities. In addition, he is focusing on the food production challenge that will become a global issue as the world’s population grows to nearly 10 billion by 2050.

EDUCATION

M.S., Agricultural Engineering and Animal Science (Diplom Agrar Ingenieur, Dipl. agr. ing.), University of Leipzig, Germany, 1996. Grad studies, Animal Science, University of Goettingen, Germany. Ph.D., Animal Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, 2000.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Previous research was conducted in the areas of air quality (dust emission and microbial sampling in feedlot cattle and pigs), environmental physiology (heat stress in cattle and pigs), and ethology.

Frank received a Master of Science degree in animal science and agricultural engineering from the University of Leipzig, Germany, and a doctoral degree in animal science from Texas Tech University. Frank was recruited by UC Davis in 2002, to fill its first-ever position focusing on the relationship between livestock and air quality.

Mitloehner, Frank. "Frank Mitloehner." CLEAR Center, UC Davis, https://clear.ucdavis.edu/people/frank-mitloehner. Accessed 8/15/24

https://twitter.com/GHGGuru

https://clear.ucdavis.edu/blog

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2024

8AM - 12PM

holistic skincare, agriculture & sustainability: a Unified approach to environmental & Personal Wellness

Holistic skincare, health, and wellness are increasingly coincided with principles of agriculture and sustainability, reflecting a growing recognition of the connection between our environment and personal well-being. Holistic skincare emphasizes the importance of treating the body, mind, and spirit as a unified whole. This approach extends beyond merely choosing products. It involves understanding the sources and impacts of those products on both individual health and the planet.

Agriculture plays a crucial role in this paradigm. Sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and regenerative agriculture, contribute significantly to holistic health. Organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals and pesticides, which can be harmful to both the environment and human health. Regenerative agriculture aims to restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and capture carbon, thereby supporting a more resilient ecosystem.

For skincare, this means selecting products derived from sustainably grown ingredients. Botanical extracts from plants grown without harmful chemicals offer soothing, more nourishing effects on the skin but also minimize ecological harm. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender, when sourced organically, reflect a commitment to sustainability and personal well-being. This approach also supports biodiversity, as organic and regenerative farms often promote a wider variety of plant species.

Moreover, the circular economy model in agriculture supports holistic wellness by reducing waste and encouraging the reuse of resources. For instance, composting agricultural byproducts helps enrich soil, which in turn supports healthier crops and ecosystems. This cycle of care and renewal mirrors the holistic principle of balance and harmony.

In summary, integrating sustainable agricultural practices with holistic skincare and wellness not only enhances personal health but also supports environmental sustainability. This approach fosters a more harmonious relationship between humans and nature, promoting a healthier planet and more mindful living.

Having a medical background in nursing and holistic health I knew I wanted to create a holistic skincare line that could go hand in hand with agriculture and sustainability. Through years of research and case studies I was able to implement these key elements when I choose to not use alcohol, artificial dyes, artificial fragrances and use all organic plant-based ingredients. Renew You Body Butters is a holistic skincare company that provides organic plant-based hair, face and body products. We want every one of our clients to have the ability to renew their skin and renew their life. If you want to know more about our holistic skincare products checkout our website at www.renewyoubodybutter. com

Championing Groundwater management And sustainability

Water that is found beneath the surface of the Earth in saturated rock and sediment formations is called groundwater. It is a very important and valuable water supply for much of the world, and particularly in California's Central Valley. Modesto Irrigation District (MID) has a long-standing history as a champion and leader in groundwater management.

Groundwater is a significant component of our region’s overall water supply. In fact, many of the cities in the Central Valley rely 100% on groundwater for drinking water. The City of Modesto did so for most of its history prior to a partnership with MID – we built and operate the Modesto Regional Water Treatment Plant which supplements the City’s drinking water supply with high-quality, treated surface water from the Tuolumne River. The resulting relaxation of groundwater withdrawals by the City allowed our area groundwater levels to rebound by more than 40 feet.

The primary source of groundwater recharge in the Modesto Subbasin occurs through agricultural irrigation using surface water supplied by MID. Other sources of recharge in the basin occur via agricultural irrigation from Oakdale Irrigation District, rainfall and seepage from surface water bodies such as Modesto Reservoir.

Modesto Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan

MID is a member of the Stanislaus and Tuolumne Rivers Groundwater Basin Association Groundwater Sustainability Agency (STRGBA GSA) which covers approximately 250,000 acres in Stanislaus County lying between the Tuolumne, Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers. STRGBA GSA has the authority and responsibility to manage the groundwater basin and submitted Modesto Subbasin’s Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) to the Department of Water Resources (DWR) in January 2022.

Almost two years later, DWR determined the GSP to be incomplete and identified deficiencies in the plan. The deficiencies outlined by DWR can be summarized in two points:

• The subbasin needs a domestic well mitigation program. This type of program would provide for replacement of domestic wells impacted by declining groundwater levels.

• The subbasin needs a backstop. If the projects and management actions either (a) don’t materialize and/or (b) don’t materialize in the magnitude predicted, what will the subbasin do to mitigate unsustainable groundwater extraction. This requires the establishment of a demand management program.

Demand management can take many different forms – land fallowing, idling, multi-benefit land repurposing, or implementation of a groundwater allocation.

STRGBA GSA has since revised the Modesto Subbasin GSP to address the identified deficiencies and resubmitted it to DWR in July. DWR released the document for public review and anticipates completing their review by December 2024.

Visit strgba.org for a copy of the GSP, STRGBA GSA meetings information and news.

Long-Term Groundwater Replenishment Program

On August 8, 2023, the MID Board of Directors approved a Long-Term Groundwater Replenishment Program (LT-GRP) for the Modesto Subbasin. The LT-GRP is a voluntary, 20-year program that allows landowners within the Modesto Subbasin to receive MID surface water in years when surface water is plentiful, to help replenish groundwater.

The implementation of the LT-GRP is both timely and significant as it’s exactly the type of project that will satisfy DWR’s requirements outlined in their review of the Modesto Subbasin GSP and will help mitigate the overdraft conditions over the next 20 years.

Program details, including the application and pricing, are available at mid.org.

Ensuring a sustainable future

We continue to march towards a sustainable future – ensuring groundwater sustainability where we have it and seek sustainability through management actions and innovations where we need it. We encourage you to follow along and more importantly, to participate in the Modesto Subbasin activities at strgba.org.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce

CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

E & J Gallo Winery

AIM Property Management

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc., a HUB International Company

Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC

Doctors Medical Center

Mape's Ranch/Lyons' Investments Pacific Southwest Container, Inc.

VISIONARY

Blue

starting a Women-owned business: My Journey into soaps, Candles, and organic Products

Starting a women-owned business in the world of soaps, candles, and organic products has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. It all began with a simple idea—to create products that not only nurture the body but also nourish the soul. Here’s how I turned that dream into reality, and what I’ve learned along the way.

When I first started, I knew I wanted to do more than just make products; I wanted to create something meaningful. I spent countless hours researching, experimenting, and refining my niche. I discovered that my passion lay in crafting luxurious, natural products that tell a story—one of self-care, sustainability, and artisanal craftsmanship. My brand became an extension of my values, reflecting a commitment to quality, creativity, and environmental responsibility.

Creating my first batch of soap was a turning point. I fell in love with the process—the mixing of oils, the careful selection of ingredients, the patience required as the soap cured. The same went for my candles, where I learned the delicate balance of fragrance and wax. Each product became a labor of love, infused with intention and care. I quickly realized that the key to success was not just making a product but mastering the craft behind it.

One of the most surprising and fulfilling aspects of my journey has been the support I’ve found from other

women entrepreneurs. I joined local business groups and online communities, where I connected with like-minded women who were also building their dreams. Their advice, encouragement, and shared experiences have been invaluable, helping me navigate the ups and downs of running a business.

Sustainability has always been at the heart of what I do. I’m committed to using organic ingredients, reducing waste, and offering eco-friendly packaging. These choices aren’t just good for the planet—they resonate with my customers, who care deeply about the impact of their purchases. Knowing that my business contributes to a healthier environment gives me a deep sense of purpose.

Marketing can be daunting, but I’ve found that authenticity is key. I love sharing the story behind my products—how they’re made, why I choose certain ingredients, and what makes them special. Social media has been a powerful tool for connecting with my audience, and I’ve also enjoyed participating in our Chamber of Commerce, allowing me to be a part of something greater.

Starting this business has been a journey of growth, learning, and immense satisfaction. It’s more than just a business to me; it’s a way to make a positive impact, not only for my customers but for the environment. Every product I create reflects my dedication to quality and my belief in the power of natural, handmade goods. I’m excited for the future and the opportunity to continue crafting products that bring joy and well-being to others.

As a Modesto Chamber Member you have 100% Online University of Massachusetts educational benefits for you, your family, AND your employees.

Recruit, retain, and upskill your workforce through exclusive tuition discounts on over 55 degrees and certificates.* Our online programs are specifically designed for working adults, enabling your employees to seamlessly integrate education into their busy schedules. This education benefit program can serve as a strong motivator for employees to remain and advance within your organization.

HERE’S A GLIMPSE OF WHAT UMASS GLOBAL PROVIDES TO OUR PARTNERS

■ Free monthly professional development training webinars, customized options may be available.

■ Your employees, and their spouses, and dependents can receive tuition discounts of 10% -20%. * UMASSGLOBAL.EDU/ModestoChamber

*Credit

■ UMG funded education benefits, support, & communications customized to your company needs.

SCAN THE QR CODE to schedule a FREE 30-MINUTE CONSULTATION with a UMass Global We’ll discuss how our support and programs can benefit your company’s specific needs.

Mark your calendars for October 12th, 2024 as LearningQuest proudly presents a unique fundraising event, “Over the Edge,” at 1524 McHenry Avenue in Modesto at the black glass building. This fun-filled family event will feature activities for all ages, supporting LearningQuest’s mission to empower students through education, transforming lives and providing hope for a brighter future.

For the first time ever, this exciting event is coming to Stanislaus County. “Over the Edge” offers participants the extraordinary opportunity to rappel down the black glass building in a safe environment, guided by experts. This adventure symbolizes the courage and determination students show every day as they stand on the edge of possibility, ready to soar toward their dreams.

To participate, individuals must raise a minimum of $1,000. No prior training is needed, as the Over the Edge team provides all the technical expertise, and equipment necessary for an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the rappelling adventure, the day will feature a ground-level festival with free entertainment and music. Kids will be treated to a memorable experience in our Children’s Cove, sponsored by the Modesto Children’s Museum, with fun activities and special guests like Spiderman.

If rappelling is not for you, purchase a ticket to our Liquid Cove event, for guests 21 and older. The Liquid Cove offers a front-row view of the rappellers as they make their way down the black glass building, all in support of our mission. Enjoy tastes of the Valley from Dust Bowl Brewing Co., Persuasion Brewing, Last Call Brewing, Contentment Brewing, Roboli Family Wines, Gallo, 18Seventy Brewing Co., Blaker Brewing, and a Champagne Bar. To complement the drinks, Fiscalini Cheese Company, Wolfsen’s Meat and Sausage, and G’z Tacos will provide small plates. Tickets are $50 per person and the Liquid Cove will run from 1PM – 4PM.

To purchase Liquid Cove tickets, become a sponsor, learn more about our event, programs and services, and volunteer opportunities or to register to rappel please

Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience: "Over the Edge" to Empower Students

Leveraging Digital marketing for Agriculture and sustainability

Digital marketing is revolutionizing the agriculture and sustainability sectors, offering innovative ways to connect with consumers, streamline operations, and promote sustainable practices. As the world becomes increasingly digital, the agricultural industry is discovering the benefits of integrating digital marketing strategies to enhance visibility, engagement, and ultimately, profitability. Those in the agriculture sector without a digital presence may be missing out on significant opportunities to connect with local markets and broader audiences.

For farmers, agricultural companies, and sustainabilityfocused businesses, digital marketing provides tools to educate consumers about sustainable practices and the origins of their products. Through social media, blogs, and videos, businesses can showcase their commitment to sustainable agriculture, share stories from the farm, and highlight the environmental benefits of their practices. This not only raises consumer awareness but also builds brand loyalty and trust.

Additionally, digital marketing can greatly enhance direct sales strategies. With online platforms, local farms can reach consumers directly through e-commerce setups, bypassing traditional middlemen and increasing their profit margins. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer advertising options that target specific demographics and geographic locations, making it easier for businesses to reach potential customers in their local areas or those interested in sustainable practices.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is another crucial aspect of digital marketing that can benefit the agriculture and sustainability sectors. By optimizing their online content, businesses can ensure they appear in search engine results when potential customers search for sustainable products or local organic farms. This increased online visibility is essential for attracting more traffic to their websites and converting visitors into customers.

Moreover, digital marketing provides valuable data that can inform business decisions. Through analytics, agricultural businesses can understand consumer behavior, track engagement, and adjust their marketing strategies accordingly. This data-driven approach helps in fine-tuning operations, from crop planning to direct sales, ensuring they meet the market's demands effectively.

However, without a digital presence, businesses in agriculture and sustainability risk losing out to competitors

who are more adept at engaging with the digitally savvy consumer base. Today, a significant portion of consumers perform online research before making a purchase decision, and not being visible online means missing out on potential sales.

A pro tip for businesses looking to enhance their digital marketing efforts is to focus on storytelling. Sharing the journey of your products from farm to table can captivate audiences and foster a stronger connection with your brand.

At Sisbro Innovation, we understand the unique challenges faced by the agriculture and sustainability sectors in the digital space. Our affordable services are tailored to help your business grow its online presence effectively. From developing a robust digital strategy to managing social media platforms, we ensure that your business not only connects with its local community but also stands out in the global digital marketplace. Let Sisbro Innovation help you harness the full potential of digital marketing to promote your sustainable and agricultural initiatives.

To enhance your company's online presence, whether it's creating a new website, updating an existing one, needing assistance with Online Reputation Management or seeking a virtual assistant for social media posting or phone support, visit www.sisbroinnovation.com. You can also contact Sisbro Innovation directly at (800) 2919102 for further assistance or call Kathryn Ramos directly to schedule a FREE consultation at (719) 237-9155.

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.

Leadership modesto: strengthening Our Community through Collaboration

The Leadership Modesto Class of 2024 is a dynamic group of over 20 professionals from diverse sectors, united by a shared commitment to understanding and enhancing the Modesto community. As participants in this esteemed program, we are gaining invaluable insights into the various facets that make Modesto thrive. Our recent "Business Day" was a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives.

Exploring Modesto's Business Landscape

On Business Day, we embarked on an enlightening walking tour of downtown Modesto, engaging with leaders from key organizations such as Stanislaus County Workforce Development, Beard Land/M&ET, Graceada Partners, and BBSI Modesto. The day culminated in a panel hosted by the Farm Bureau, featuring influential voices like Bill O'Brien of O'Brien Supermarkets, Kathy Salvatore from Comcast Business, and Simon Hermiz of Loves Air. These organizations exemplify the spirit of giving back to the community. They invest not only financially but also through their time and expertise, often without seeking recognition. This humility and dedication to community welfare are core values that resonate deeply with the ethos of Modesto.

Learning and Leading at BBSI Modesto

A highlight of our day was a leadership exercise at BBSI Modesto, where we delved into the complexities of organizational roles. We learned the importance of understanding and excelling in our roles while supporting others without overstepping boundaries. This exercise underscored the key to successful teamwork: recognizing and respecting the unique contributions of each team member.

Empowering Workforce Development

Stanislaus County Workforce Development plays a crucial role in supporting both businesses and the workforce. Their comprehensive services are designed to mitigate the impacts of layoffs and facilitate smooth transitions for workers. By providing training and career services, they help individuals and businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities for future success.

This proactive approach not only strengthens the local economy but also enhances the quality of life for countless families in our community.

A Vision for Modesto's Future

Our journey through Leadership Modesto is more than just a learning experience; it's a call to action. By engaging with diverse business leaders and understanding their approaches to community support, we are better equipped to contribute to Modesto's vibrant future. The insights and connections we gain will enable us to weave a stronger fabric of collaboration and innovation in our city.

In conclusion, the Leadership Modesto Class of 2024 is committed to leveraging our collective expertise and passion for leadership to sustain and improve our beloved city.

We are inspired by the generosity and humility of Modesto's business leaders and look forward to playing our part in fostering a thriving community for generations to come.

Modesto Irrigation District has various programs that can help your business unplug to conserve energy and plug-in to sustainability. The power is in your hands.

Modesto Irrigation District has various programs that can help your business unplug to conserve

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