December Progress magazine

December 2011

Vol. 32 Issue 12

modchamber.org

Ribbon CuttingsWork In ProgressNew Members

Our Future Starts Here

council member Stephanie BurnSide

council member dave Cogdill Jr.

sylvan school district board member

Jennifer miyakawa

sylvan school district board member

david CollinS

council member dave lopez

modesto city schools board member

kathy floreS hallinan


Steven grenBeaux

mid board member larry Byrd


amy newman

stanislaus county board of education

kim Spina

mid board member niCk Blom

mayor candidategarrad marSh

mayor candidateBrad hawn

not piCtured council member

John gunderSon

An entire networkCommitted entirely

to your unique needs

suttercentralvalley.org

Choosing the Sutter Health network of doctors and hospitals

means you’re choosing a network that is committed to you.

We give you access to some of the most respected hospitals

and doctors in the Central Valley region, like Sutter Gould

Medical Foundation, Memorial Medical Center, Sutter Tracy

Community Hospital, and Memorial Hospital Los Banos, with

easy access to a large array of specialists. Selecting a Sutter

Health network doctor gives you everything you need.

Make sure you choose a health plan that gives

you access to Sutter Health doctors.

00659_OE_Progress_Nov.indd 1 10/18/11 2:11 PM

dec 2011 3

Being a part of the Welcome Team has been a wonderful experience. Welcoming a new or a relocating business to the community is always an exciting event. Not only have I been able to meet and greet newcomers, I have made some great friends on and off of the Welcome Team. Attending Ribbon Cuttings allows me to learn about the new businesses in town as well as promote Prime Shine. So come on out and support our local businesses by joining our team! For more information contact Ronna Porges at (209) 549-9274 or visit www.primeshine.com. P

An entire networkCommitted entirely

to your unique needs

suttercentralvalley.org

Choosing the Sutter Health network of doctors and hospitals

means you’re choosing a network that is committed to you.

We give you access to some of the most respected hospitals

and doctors in the Central Valley region, like Sutter Gould

Medical Foundation, Memorial Medical Center, Sutter Tracy

Community Hospital, and Memorial Hospital Los Banos, with

easy access to a large array of specialists. Selecting a Sutter

Health network doctor gives you everything you need.

Make sure you choose a health plan that gives

you access to Sutter Health doctors.

00659_OE_Progress_Nov.indd 1 10/18/11 2:11 PM

Welcome Team Corner

PROGRESS MAGAZINE1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354(209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673www.modchamber.org • [email protected]

Mission StatementTo promote the region’s economic strengths and vitality; identify and promote services that are valuable to our members; advocate for public policy that is advantageous to the business community; and fully participate and partner in activities to improve quality of life.

BOARD OF DIRECTORSchairmanRalph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

chairman electDavid Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Vice chairman of Internal OperationsEric Benson, JS West & Company

Vice chairman of external OperationsKathy Halsey, Individual Member

Vice chairman of Member RelationsDavid Halvorson, American Chevrolet

Vice chairman of events & Special ProjectsDoug Johnson, Reach Business Systems, Inc.

directorsLynn Dickerson, Gallo Center for the Arts Dan Garcia, Tri Counties BankPat Gillum, Pat Gillum, CPANeal Khatri, Best Western Khatri PropertiesCraig Lewis, Prudential California RealtySharon Likely, Kaiser PermanenteMike Moradian, Peace of Mind Home InspectionsBill Moreno, Fire 2 WireRon Owen, Bank of the WestSuzy Powell, Individual MemberChris Ricci, Chris Ricci PresentsLaura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing SolutionsJeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

ex-OfficioBill Bassitt, The AllianceGeorge Boodrookas, Modesto Junior CollegeKeith Boggs, Leadership ModestoDavid Boring, Never Boring Design AssociatesGreg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Cecil Russell, President/[email protected]

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce(209) 577-5757 • [email protected]

Graphic design: Never Boring Design Associates(209) 526-9136 • www.neverboring.com

Printer: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568 • [email protected]

distribution: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568

Advertising Sales: Kristin BowkerNever Boring Design Associates(209) 526-9136 • [email protected]

ronna porgeS

401 10th Street (Corner of “10th & D” St) Modesto, CA

P: (209) 527-0902 | F: (209) 527-4045 | www.loveladys.com

© N

ever

Bor

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Des

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• ne

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Body and Paint Shop, Inc.

Family Owned and Operated since 1974 | Four� Generation

SAVE THE DATE

MODeStO CHaMber’S 100 Year Gala

Date: marCh 10, 2012

lOCatION: the gallo Center

for the artS

CONTENTS deceMbeR 2011

PublIC aDVOCaCY

4 Your Chamber at Work

COVer StOrY

6 Election Results

COMMuNItY DeVelOPMeNt

8 Guest Column

9 Expect More Stanislaus

12 Announcements

10 eDuCatION

11 GOVerNMeNt relatIONS

eCONOMIC DeVelOPMeNt

13 New Member Profiles

23 Land of Opportunity

NetwOrkING & reFerralS

16 Business Before and After Hours

17 New Chamber Members

18 Ribbon Cuttings

26 Calendar

4 Modesto chamber of commerce I Progress

In 2011 more than 2,500 bills were introduced in the California legislature. In the end, 870 bills were presented to the Governor; of those, 745 bills were signed into law, 125 vetoed, and one bill went into law without the Governor’s signature. Bills signed by the Governor become law on January 1, 2012.

Each year, the California Chamber of Commerce releases a list of “ job killer” bills to identify legislation that will decimate economic and job growth in California. This year, 30 bills were considered “ job killer” bills. Of those, only seven made it to the Governor’s desk; six of these were vetoed, and only one signed into law.

Senators Berryhill and Cannella and Assemblymembers Berryhill and Olsen are recognized as voting in accord with nearly 100% of CalChamber’s “Best Business” positions. This recognition clearly identifies that our elected officials are acting in the best interest of our business community.

As issues are brought forward, our Chamber’s Government Relations Council (GRC) reviews and takes positions on key business bills that affect our community. This year the GRC acted upon 15 bills, 11 of these were considered “ job killer” bills.

For example, the Chamber opposed, and the Governor vetoed, AB 325 and AB 1155. AB 325, the right to bereavement leave, would have added legal costs and responsibilities to California businesses. AB 1155 would have increased costs and lawsuits in the workers’

compensation system by eroding the apportionment position that protects an employer from paying for disability that didn’t arise at work.

The Chamber also supported passage of AB 878, which was signed into law by the Governor. AB 878 strengthens workers’ compensation laws.

As we go into 2012, the Chamber will continue to review legislation and act on our members’ behalf to strengthen business and support our community. P

puBlIC ADvOCACy

your ChamBer at work

(209) 523-8365

Keeping Modesto Cool Since 1957

AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • SHEET METAL

AIR DUCT CLEANING • PLANNED SERVICE MAINTENANCE

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Our elected officials are acting in the best interest

of our business community.

City of Modesto Utility Users Tax

The city of Modesto’s Utility Users Tax is collected on telephone, water, gas and electric services at a rate of 6% and cable television services at 3%.

The maximum tax utility users have to pay for each service is $1500. With a tax rate of 6%, this means a user will reach the maximum tax when they have paid $25,000 in any given calendar year for a utility service.

If you have paid tax on charges in excess of $25,000 for a utility service during a calendar year, you may be entitled to a refund from the city.

A “utility service” refers to each individual utility location with a separate meter and separate billing.

For telephone customers, the tax is calculated on each basic telephone number, including extensions to the basic number.

The Modesto Municipal Code currently provides for refunds of overpayments made within 12 months from the receipt of the refund request.

To request a refund, please provide the city with a written request and copies of your utility bills which verify you overpaid.

Request for refunds should be mailed to: City of Modesto Finance Department P. O. Box 642; Modesto, CA 95353 Attn: Utility Tax Desk

You may elect to prepay the utility users tax maximum if you believe you will exceed the cap. The city would then notify each utility that payment has been made and they will cease collection of the tax for the calendar year.

If you have any questions, please contact the Utility Tax personnel at (209)577-5206.

dec 2011 5

What does turning 100 years old look like? We invite you to join the Modesto Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate 100 years of service to our members. This special celebration will be held Saturday, March 10, 2012 at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Take a step back in time and be prepared to experience the sights and sounds of 1912. See f irst hand what businesses looked like and the focus of the Chamber way back when.

The event, sponsored in part by Kaiser Permanente, PG&E and Gianelli and Associates, will not only celebrate the Chamber’s 100 year anniversary, but it will also honor those businesses that saw the value of Chamber membership 100 years ago and continue to be members to this day: AT&T (Pacif ic Bell), Bank of America, Foster Farms, JS West & Company and PG&E. Learn a little about their history, what has made them successful and why they continue to support Modesto. Not only will we take you back to the past, but we will also celebrate some of the exciting and wonderful things about Modesto that keep our members and their families doing business here year after year.

This gala celebration will be like none other. With live performances, including stars from Gallo’s the Valley’s Got

Talent, Broadway numbers produced by Melanie Wyatt, a great band, dancing and maybe even a few surprises, this black tie event will be the talk of the town for weeks to come. We’ ll take a step away from the usual sit-down dinner to entice you with delectable offerings from Modesto’s restaurateurs and caterers. As we look back at the past and celebrate our history, we are opening the door to our future, and looking at it with a whole new perspective. We will conclude the evening of awards celebration with a champagne toast, a top band and we’ ll dance the night away.

This once in our lifetime event is sure to sell out early, so mark your calendars, and don’t be late in making your reservation for the 100th Annual Awards Dinner and Centennial celebration.

Exciting new sponsorship opportunities are now available, for information call or email Elizabeth Facanha, Special Events Manager, [email protected] or (209) 577-5757. P

modeSto ChamBer’S 100 year gala planned

1101 Sylvan ave • Ste C-203 • ModeSto, Ca 95350

(209) 579.5900 • www.valleywealth.CoM

Valley Wealth, Inc. is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor • CA Ins. Lic. #OH52990

1101 Sylvan ave, Suite C-203ModeSto, Ca 95350 • (209) 579.5900

www.valleywealth.com

we are pleased to announce that

Mark royer and his company,

select wealth advisors, inc., have joined

jason Gordo and jeff Burrow of valley wealth, inc.

portfolio manaGement

company retirement plans

insurance services

COvER STORy

The important position of the Mayor, who leads the City Council, has yet to be determined. There will be a vital run off election to decide the final outcome for our new Mayor. This will be a mail election with ballots due February 7, 2012. Jim Ridenour will continue to serve in the position of Mayor until the final outcome of the run off election. To learn more about the Mayoral Candidates, please refer to the October issue of Progress Magazine, there you will find their campaign positions on key issues the City faces. The Chamber will eagerly await the outcome of this election.

We have many issues facing the MID board; the relicensing of Don Pedro Dam to ensure that our agribusiness has a steady and dependable water supply. Decisions to sell water to San Francisco will need to be scrutinized and the method of funding the maintenance of the many miles of our aging canals will also need to be addressed. Other issues that will need a business approach are controlling spending, reducing MID’s debt and negotiating favorable power agreements.

New board members Larry Byrd and Nick Blom will strengthen the MID board; they bring new energy, enthusiasm and experience to the board. We wish them success in their new position and know that they will contribute in a very positive manner for all of the rate paying community. We congratulate Larry Byrd and Nick Blom on their victory.

Our Future Starts Here

{ COvER STORy }

By: CeCil ruSSell, preSident & Ceo

This past November’s election will have a profound impact on our community for the next four to eight years and beyond. Our economy, schools, education, future work force and our ability to retain and attract more business, are vital to our future and will depend on how we voted and who got elected. We will have a new mayor and new council members. The makeup of city government will change with the elected officials.

Our hope is that our city will not only continue to be business friendly, but be the most business friendly city in the Central Valley. This will ensure business growth and job growth, which is the key to our prosperity and quality of life for all of our community. Our new elected officials, working together with business and education, will solidify the future economic vitality of our vibrant city.

The election results for the City Council are John Gunderson to represent District 1, Dave Cogdill Jr. for District 6, and re-elected Stephanie Burnside for District 5 and re-elected Dave Lopez for District 3. We congratulate all on their victory.

We consider all of them to be business friendly and look forward to working together to bring more business to Modesto.

Although the position of City Manager is not an elected position, we would like to recognize how fortunate we are to have a capable, business minded City Manager in Greg Nyhoff. We are conf ident the recent vote of the City Council giving our City Manager additional authority will result in an even more business friendly City.


city council members John gunderSon (not piCtured), dave Cogdill Jr.,

Stephanie BurnSide and dave lopez

mayor garrad marSh and Brad hawn

mid board members niCk Blom and larry Byrd

dec 2011 7

COvER STORy

our new eleCted offiCialS, working together with business and

education, will solidify the future economic vitality of our vibrant city.

The Modesto City Schools entered a new era with the hiring of new superintendent Pam Able this past summer. With this November’s election, the Modesto City Schools Board of Education also enters a new era. They have many challenges as they go forward. How to deal with a budget of over $250 million and a potential budget shortfall will be one of the first orders of work. They should have an understanding of the bridges that have been built between schools and business. They should demonstrate a strong desire to further enhance those relationships.

The new board should do everything possible to help the new superintendent succeed. The top issue should be to improve student performance for all of our students, to ensure that they are prepared to enter the work force and become productive members of our community.

Kathy Flores Hallinan, Steven Grenbeaux and Amy Newman will be great additions to the Modesto City School Board.

Winners of the Sylvan School District elections are Jennifer Miyakawa and re-elected is David Collins. Congratulations to them on their victories.

Kim Spina, with her past experience, will be a very productive new member to the Stanislaus County Board of Education. We congratulate all on their victories.

The pension reform ballot issues all passed. The Chamber endorsed these measures because we believed that the voters deserved to express their wishes on how our elected officials spend our tax dollars. The continuations of past practices are not sustainable nor can the city continue to afford them. Negotiations have changed the course for future employees ; however it will be years (maybe 15 years) into the future before any cost savings will be realized, as we stil l have to balance the current budgets. We can only do this by further negotiations with current employers. With the outcome of these ballot measures, the mayor, council and city manager have clear direction from the voters. Now that they have the voice of the voters behind them, our hope is for successful negotiations for all. P

sylvan school district board members david CollinS and Jennifer miyakawa

modesto city school board members kathy floreS hallinan, Steven grenBeaux and amy newman

stanislaus county board of education board member kim Spina


COmmunITy DEvElOpmEnT

guest column new lawS

By david gianelli

Meal & Rest Period Case Brinker The California Supreme Court will be issuing an opinion which should decide whether employers must ensure that employees take their meal and rest periods or simply make the breaks available. Get updated information through the Cal Chamber’s HR Watchdog.

Employers Must Notify Employees of Right to Unionize Employers are required to notify employees of their right to unionize. The California Chamber of Commerce has prepared a new poster that will comply with the new notif ication requirement. Your new labor law poster will be available at the Chamber in December. More important information regarding HR is available at www.calchamber.com.

New Businesses Qualifying as LLC’s in California Contractor’s licenses may now be issued to limited liability companies. However, any LLC holding a license must file a surety bond in the amount of at least $100,000 covering damages for claims of employees. In contrast, corporations, sole proprietorships and partnerships are only required to hold a $10,000 bond.

Security Breach Notification Requirements Senate Bill 24 (SB-24) amends Cal. Civ. Code Sections 1798.29 and 1798.80 mandating additional content for compulsory security breach notifications sent to California residents. The legislation requires notification of the California Attorney General in some instances when notification is sent to more than 500 California residents affected by the security breach incident. Further, all notifications must include specific

details, including the date or approximate date of the security breach, the date of the notification, a general description of the breach, what types of personal information were subject to the breach and whether notification was delayed by law enforcement investigation. Additionally, the amended California statute requires that the notification include the toll-free telephone numbers and addresses of the major credit reporting agencies if the breach exposed a Social Security number or California Identification Card number.

Expanded Form 1099 Reporting Requirements Repealed A new law has repealed the unpopular Form 1099 information reporting rules that were previously added in the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. Under the new law, beginning in 2012, the reporting requirements will return to their pre-2010 levels. Under the pre-2010 requirements and now the new reporting system, the IRS generally requires payments totaling at least $600 in a single calendar year to a single recipient to be reported to IRS on a Form 1099. Reporting is required only when the payor is considered to be engaged in a trade or business and has made the payment in connection with that trade or business. The type of payment that most commonly triggers the reporting requirement is payment for services. There are a number of exemptions from the reporting requirements including payments to corporations.

Personal use of Employer Provided Cell Phones Employers that require employees to use personal cell phones for business calls may treat reimbursements of employee expenses for reasonable cell phone coverage as nontaxable. P

THE BUCK HERE.Shop Local.

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS

Members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce are eligible for greatly discounted

rates on the following media outlets.

• Radio commercials on the top stations in the market

KATM, KHKK, KHOP, KWIN, KESP, KJSN, KFIV, KMRQ, KOSO and KRVR.

• TV commercials on major networks through Comcast

• Newspaper space in the Modesto Bee

Your message will be included in commercials produced by The Modesto Chamber

of Commerce and certain restrictions apply. Production services are also available

at reduced rates. Don’t pass up this opportunity to be part of a campaign to

educate the public on the importance of shopping locally and gain exposure

for your business at a fraction of the usual cost.

Please call Warren Groeschel at (209) 526-9136 for more information.

1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 577-5757 • modchamber.org

BUY LOCAL,

Invest in your future

dec 2011 9

puBlIC ADvOCACy

As reported in November’s issue of Progress Magazine,

in August, your Modesto Chamber held its 1st Annual State of Education Event. We partnered with The Alliance to produce this event. The event was well attended both by business and education. The theme of the event was building bridges between business and education. There was wide participation from various groups that shared the current successes in cooperation between business and education. Effective collaboration between business and education will develop a better-prepared workforce for businesses. This workforce will help attract more businesses to locate here in our communities and help stimulate the local economies.

Going into the Chamber State of Education Event, The Alliance had formulated the nucleus of on-going business and educational collaboration under the moniker Expect More Stanislaus. The focus of Expect More Stanislaus is to build on existing success, grow participation and results and develop new programs as the need is identif ied. Working together, we can achieve more and be more eff icient rather than working individually.

To create a focused and more disciplined approach to collaboration, Expect More Stanislaus developed five focus areas for 2012. The five focus areas are: Mentoring, Internships, Career Days, ROP Tech Ed and Education Business Collaborative. Each of the Focus Areas has been assigned a Leader and a Facilitator. Each group has been assigned a leadership team. These groups attended a kick off meeting on October 20 to start formalizing their goals and plans.

Below is an overview of the five focus areas.

Mentoring Mentoring is a relationship between a youth and an adult (or team of adults) that occurs on a regular and dependable basis over a prolonged period of time. The mentor provides consistent support, guidance and concrete help to a student (identified by the respective school district) who is in need of a positive role model. Students involved in the mentoring program may be going through a difficult and/or challenging situation, a period of life in which they need extra support or they may simply need to have another significant adult present in their life. The goal of student mentoring is to help students involved in the mentoring program to gain the skills and confidence to be responsible for their own futures. Leading this program is Keith Boggs from the Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office and facilitating the program is Kate Trompetter.

InternshipsInternships are well-supervised programs that provide on-the-job experiences and career perspective to participating students and teachers through actual work experiences. Job shadowing can provide valuable experience as well. Strict guidelines must also be followed to avoid legal complications. Short-term teacher internships provide valuable insight and experience for educators seeking to learn more about specific jobs, careers or industry types and allow the transfer of that experience into the classroom through curriculum enhancement ultimately benefiting the students. Leading this program is Cecil Russell from the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and facilitating this program is David Hosley and Niki Santo.

Classroom Participation/Career DaysEvery student in Stanislaus County needs the opportunity to participate in meaningful school-to-work career exploration activities. These efforts should involve an entire class or academy, including teachers, administrators, support staff, technical and special education students. The goal is to provide students with the opportunity to learn about the world of business and focus

on career options and to allow business, industry and representatives of the professions into the schools encouraging collaboration and networking. Leading this program is Bear Walters, CommonWealth Modesto, and facilitating this program is Mary Ann Sanders.

ROP Technical EducationRegional Occupational Programs are programs of study that may involve a multi-year sequence of courses that integrates core academic knowledge with technical and occupational knowledge to provide students with a pathway to postsecondary education and careers. The goal is to engage the entire community to work with the schools in the county to support existing ROP/TECH ED programs and identify new and broader career pathways that ref lect current and future business demands. We seek to open greater career opportunities for all students while helping to provide a competitive workforce for the community. Leading this program is Cindy Young from Stanislaus County Off ice of Education and Sally Cofer-Lindberg is facilitating.

Business and Education CollaborativeEmployers and educators share the responsibility in preparing learners for success in their workplace and community, which in turn ensures a strong, healthy economy in Stanislaus County. This can be achieved with the assistance of community volunteers who support workforce development and education through job shadowing and internships, mentoring, career days and work-based learning opportunities. Establishing and building ongoing business support and involvement in the education process is the core goal of this focus area. Leading this program is Sean Carroll from The Alliance, and facilitating the program is Keenon Krick.

These groups will continue to meet over the next few months to deliver a 1-3 Year Plan by January 1, 2012.

If you have an interest in participating or learning more about these efforts, you can contact the Alliance at [email protected]. P

Expect More Stanislaus By: CeCil ruSSell, preSident & Ceo


EDuCATIOn

The economic recession has brought priority shifts throughout government and one place where the shift occurred was adult education. As an example of this shift, Modesto City Schools, which formerly provided GED preparation and English as a Second Language classes, was able to shift its money out of adult education and into K-12—a practice most school districts followed throughout the county and even the state. This left a limited number of choices in Modesto for people who, because of work schedules and other life demands, cannot attend classes for credit toward a high school diploma and need to take a GED test instead.

It has become that much more important for Stanislaus Literacy Center to provide adult education in Stanislaus County as opportunities for adult education have shrunk but need has risen. This need is evidenced in the over 17% unemployment rate. This is coupled with an estimated 98% of jobs requiring a GED or high school diploma as a minimum qualif ication. With over 25% of adults over age 25 not having either a GED or diploma, this gap needs to be addressed. The ReadingWorks Learning Center is providing tutoring to adults who need to obtain a GED and has over 50 graduates so far this year. There is not enough space and staff to serve all the adults who need this help, however.

To meet the challenge of educating our current workforce, it will take more help from individuals as government resources continue to shrink. Volunteers can help tutor in both the

shif ting priorities is leaving a gap in workforce education

By karen williamSexeCutive direCtor of StaniSlauS literaCy Center

ReadingWorks Adult Literacy program, which helps adults who read below a seventh grade reading level improve their reading skills, and in the ReadingWorks Learning Center for adults who need to obtain a GED and improve reading, writing and math skills. Space for classes is another way a business or individual can help with this effort. It costs $500 per person per year to

provide these tutoring services, so a donation toward the cost of helping an individual is another option.

To become a volunteer tutor in the Learning Center, attend one of our new tutor training sessions, or to sign up for a session, call (209) 548-9266 or visit our website: www.readingworks.net/volunteer.

Stanislaus Literacy Center will be raising money through its second annual Spotlights on Reading event. This event features a dramatic production through Reader’s Theater. This year’s production is “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” by Robert Fulghum. There will be three performances including a wine and cheese reception on February 17 beginning at 7 p.m., a matinee on February 18 beginning at 1 p.m. and a dinner and show beginning at 6 p.m. All performances will be at the Petersen Event Center located at 720 12th Street in Modesto. To buy tickets, call (209) 522-0656 or visit our website: www.readingworks.net/events.html. P

CelebratingOver 50 Years

Of Quality Care

209.577.10552030 Evergreen Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 www.evergreencare.comFax: 209. 550. 3615

* Registered Nurses 24/7* Long Term and Short Term Quality Care* 175 Bed Skilled Nursing Facility* Pleasant Environment* Inviting and Stimulating Social Activities* Inpatient & Outpatient Physical Therapy * Inpatient & Outpatient Occupational Therapy * Speech Therapy * Respiratory Therapy

* Specialty Dining Menus* Pharmaceutical Services* Intravenous Therapy* Incontinence Service* Wound and Skin Care* Medicare Part A & B* Medi-Cal* Other Insurances Welcome* Family Owned & Operated for over 50 Years

Engaged in your Care& your Life

government relations top priority iS JoBS

By CongreSSman Jeff denham

of adults over age 25 do not have either a GED or diploma. 25%}

of jobs require a GED or high school diploma as a minimum qualification.

98%}

nOV 2011 11

gOvERnmEnT RElATIOnS

With unemployment stuck at nine percent, there is no doubt: America is in a serious jobs crisis. Nine percent is far worse than the eight percent the President promised us with the stimulus, but it’s nothing compared to the double-digit unemployment here in California.

Here in the Valley, we are too accustomed to the regulations that continue to stif le business growth and the knowledge that a friend or family member is out of work.

Since I have been in off ice, my House colleagues and I have been focused on creating an environment for economic growth and making it easier for businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and create jobs. We have also passed more than twenty jobs bills, with bipartisan support, to promote small business growth and create jobs. However, these bills have stalled in the Senate.

I have talked with many farmers, business owners, parents and local leaders, and we all agree: families and small businesses in the Valley have tightened their budgets and it’s time that Washington does the same.

As a Valley farmer and small business owner, I understand the fear, frustration and concern you all feel. We are all fed up with the broken promises and the gimmicks coming from Washington.

More federal spending is not the answer to the nation’s persistent nine percent unemployment rate.

We must make sure that we are reducing the regulations and promoting the economic policies that instill confidence among entrepreneurs and enable them to take a risk to go out and borrow money to start a business and create American jobs. We must give Americans the opportunity to explore their creativity and spur innovation in economic pursuits for the benefit of the country. P

government relations top priority iS JoBS

By CongreSSman Jeff denham

“My House

colleagues and

I have been

focused on

creating an

environment

for economic

growth and

making it

easier for

businesses and

entrepreneurs

to grow and

create jobs.”

CongreSSmanJeff denham



Bob Dinsmore has been named Co-Chair of a new national marketing group for MillerCoors. This is the first time a distributor council has been formed to assist MillerCoors with all levels of marketing. Bob will have a specific role in all major sports marketing, including NFL, NCAA Sports, MLB, NBA, NHL, etc. Bob serves on the MillerCoors National Business Council as well, representing the Pacific

Northwest States. For more information, please contact Bob Dinsmore at [email protected] or call (209) 524-2477.

Community Business College As part of its support programs for military spouses and veterans, staff and students at Community Business College are accepting donations of small toiletries, magazines and other conveniences to include in care packages to soldiers stationed overseas. Letters of support are most prized by the troops. The school also collects expired manufacturer coupons which its extreme coupon class sends to families stationed overseas who are able to take advantage of the rule that manufacturers’ coupons are accepted for up to 6 months after their expiration date at overseas military bases. Donations are accepted at the school’s main office at 3800 McHenry Avenue in Modesto. For details call (209) 529-3648.

The Choku-Rei Center invites you to visit its Christmas Open House & Vendor Party on Saturday, December 3 between noon and 6 p.m. Holiday refreshments will be served. Local vendors will be on hand representing natural goods ready for gift-giving and products of interest to the health-conscious. The Choku-Rei Center is located at 2028 W. Orangeburg Ave. in Modesto. Please plan on stopping by. For more information please contact (209) 450-6896. P

announCementS

minnie dodge

{ mInnIE’S nEwS BITES }

this is the time of the year when

we draw close to our family, friends

and loved ones. we take time to

reflect on the past year, consider

our successes and are thankful.

we at the Chamber would like to

thank you for your membership,

your continued support and

willingness to volunteer for the

many projects and events that we

do throughout the year. we know

we cannot be successful unless

you are successful. from Chamber

president and Ceo Cecil russell

and the entire Chamber staff, we

wish you a very merry Christmas

and a happy and prosperous

new year!

Thank you for your

membership, your continued

support and willingness to

volunteer.

BoB dinSmore

“what should we do today?”

this sentence gets a lot of mileage in your average american household

every weekend. and as we have the discussion with friends, family

members, clients and people in passing – we realized that there are a lot of

modesto residents still searching for things to do.

But why?

Certainly among the gallo Center for the arts, a handful of movie theaters,

great restaurants, multiple farmers markets, and an amazing wealth of

outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do “tonight” – right here, in

our own backyard… in modesto!

december 2011

2 hospice light up a life holiday

tree lighting, mSo holiday popS

3 Celebration of lights parade, Breakfast with Santa,

dickens faire

9-11 Central west Ballet’s the nutcracker

10 Spirit of giving 5k run, walk and ride

10-11 a tuna Christmas at the gallo Center

11 modesto Symphony orchestra, Breakfast with Santa

11 B92.9 acoustic Christmas

15 mchenry mansion Candlelight tours

16&18 the notcracker at the State theatre

17 Comedy night at the fat Cat music house and lounge

for a complete calendar of things to do that are updated every day go

to mydesto.com

community calendar

dec 2011 13

ECOnOmIC DEvElOpmEnT

new memBer profileS

Maintaining yourbusiness property,

and especially yourroof, may be the

single most importantinvestment you’ll make

during these toughtimes—and with rougher

weather ahead! From warehouses to shopping centers, from agricultural to industrial installations...

Mary’s Pet Project offers a variety of pet and house-sitting services including dog walking, pet transportation, errand service and overnight stays. Owner Mary Farinacci is a member of Pet Sitters International with 15 years experience providing in-home pet care, allowing pets to stay in the comfort of their home while their owners are away. We will care for your home and your pets as if they were our own. “For Pampered Pets and Peace of Mind” contact us at (209) 556-8237 or visit www.maryspetproject.com. Modesto Door & Window specializes in windows, interior and exterior doors, moldings, door hardware, shower enclosures, glass, storefronts, mirrors and shutters. Our shop also offers custom work with a complete door and glass department, including residential and commercial. In addition, our friendly and experienced team is dedicated to providing superior installation services. We are a proud Tier 1 Certified Milgard Dealer, and can assure you the best price and service for your Milgard windows. For more information please contact us at (209) 550-0525, or visit our website www.modestodoorandwindow.com. Acacia Park Nursing And Rehabilitation Center is family owned and operated as opposed to other local facilities that are part of large corporate chains. We specialize in short term rehabilitation that successfully returns patients to their own homes. Additionally unique to our center is that we offer private rooms to our short term therapy patients. Acacia Park is located at 1611 Scenic Drive right here in Modesto. Our business office hours are 8-5, and we always have nurses here to assist you. If you or a loved one are in need of short term inpatient therapy, we offer a short stay for a longer, healthier life. For more information please call us directly at (209) 523-5667. P

The Good Egg Breakfast held October 20, marked the 49th year business leaders have come together to enjoy signature made-to-order omelets and to honor an individual from the area who has given back to the community and enhanced our quality of life. This year’s event honored two recipients who for many years worked tirelessly for the underprivileged in Modesto, Reverend Vern Deatherage and his wife, Dr. Barbara Deatherage, PhD, both recently retired from the Modesto Gospel Mission. Keynote speaker Kathryn Pinke, Ad Farm, entertained the audience with “7 Reasons to Engage in Social Media for Your Business”. Event proceeds provided scholarships for two Modesto City Schools High School students. Plans are already underway for the celebration of 50 years of Good Eggs! The Good Egg Breakfast is presented by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau, the California Poultry Federation and the Pacific Egg and Poultry Association. P

deatherageS named good egg

14 Modesto chamber of commerce I Progress14 Modesto chamber of commerce I Progress

BUSINESS CONFLICT?

www.PMGMediaton.biz209.529.9128 | 1600 G. St. Modesto, CA 95354

state of the region thank you to our SponSorS

The Chamber’s third annual State of the Region Luncheon held attendees attention with flow charts and projections for Stanislaus County from Dr. Jeffrey Michael of UOP’s Eberhardt School of Business. Dr. Michaels stressed the need for export growth especially from agriculture and food manufacturing products.

Following the presentation, panel participants Stanislaus County Supervisor Terry Withrow, Stanislaus County Supervisor Jim DeMartini, Jan Ennenga Executive Director of the Manufacturers Council, Matt Fenton Manufacturing Manager Frito Lay and Dr. Jeffrey Michael answered questions from the audience. Issues like Assembly Bill 32 will seriously impact our region’s manufacturing base, warned Jan Ennenga. State regulations will make economic growth even more difficult, according to Supervisor DeMartini. Panelist Matt Fenton of Frito Lay spoke about the high cost of environmental upgrades and concerns of hiring qualified workers in 2012. Supervisor Withrow addressed the need for a more educated workforce by addressing the need for more parent involvement. Government can’t fix this issue, we have to go back to the home and start there, said Withrow.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce would like to thank State of the Region committee chair and event emcee Mr. George Petrulakis for his time and commitment to this event over the past three years. We appreciate Dr. Michael for his insight and factual data on where we currently stand and what our future may hold. Special thanks to our guest panelists for their time and pertinent comments. Events like this are made possible because of you, our members. We wish to express our sincerest gratitude to our sponsors for making this event successful.

Presenting SponsorKaiser Permanente

Event SponsorsAerotek, IncDoctors Medical CenterPetrulakis Jensen & Friedrich, LLPUC Merced

PRESIDENT’S CLUB DiamondAerotek, Inc.Bank of the WestDoctors Medical CenterDoubleTree HotelMedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.Petrulakis Jensen & Friedrich, LLP

GoldSeneca Food, LLC

SilverComcastF & M BankGrimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.Heald CollegeModesto Commerce BankOak Valley Community Bank

Table SponsorsBank of Agriculture & CommerceCHG-Brad HawnDavid E. Cogdill Sr., County AssessorValley First Credit Union

DonorGianelli & Associates


dec 2011 15dec 2011 15


State Route 99 Resurfacing and Restoration Project in Stanislaus County

the Ca department of

transportation will resurface and

restore approximately 150 road

miles of the existing pavement

on State route 99 in Stanislaus

County from the San Joaquin

County line to the merced

County line. the process will

restore surfaces on all three lanes

traveling north and south. this

$77.2 million project is funded by

the State highway operation and

protection program. the project

will go to construction in the

spring of 2012, with completion in

the summer of 2014.

Highway 132 is a Top Priority

StanCog made the decision to

make highway 132 a top priority.

this decision will significantly

impact growth in Stanislaus County.

economic growth will come from

the ability to build industrial parks

and engage in dialogue with

companies considering relocation

to Stanislaus County. this will assist

existing companies with improved

commerce channels to the Bay

area. if approved by the California

transportation Commissioners in

march, the additional $18.9 million

commitment would bring money

earmarked for the project and

stockpiled over the years to

$54.5 million.

{ BuSInESS BRIEFS }

CItY OF MODeStO if you have been downtown lately, you will have

noticed that the City of modesto has been very busy with infrastructure

changes to our downtown. they have repaved the block of 10th Street

between J and k, have changed the street parking pattern resulting in more

on-street parking and they have also repaved 11th Street for three blocks on

i, J and k. they have also done major sidewalk and tree-scape work on 11th

Street between J and k. they have started the clean-up process of gum

removal on the sidewalks in the downtown core area. in conjunction with

the modesto garden Club, most of the flower pots have been replanted. all

thanks to the City for its beautification efforts.

an effort to have more security downtown began months ago with the City

of modesto utilizing a grant from the mann foundation to supplement

regular police presence with uniformed bicycle patrols. the effort has been

welcomed by the merchants and patrons in the downtown area. we receive

many comments that this effort not only makes for a more secure downtown

but also how friendly and helpful these officers have been.

2011 brOuGHt a POSItIVe turN IN COMMerCIal real

eState more retail space, especially along mchenry and at the mall was

occupied, says Craig lewis, prudential Commercial real estate. we also had

a small reduction in the vacancy rate of office space. Commercial space has

received new attention from national tenants as well as local entrepreneurs.

we look for 2012 to be slightly better.

Craig lewis, prudential Commercial real estate, (209) 526-4040

[email protected] P


WARDEN’S OFFICE PRODUCTS CENTER

(209) 529-6321 • www.wardensopc.com 1415 J Street, Modesto, CA 95354Established in 1965, Warden’s Office Products, Inc. has grown to become the largest locally owned office products dealer serving the Central Valley of California. Warden’s is comprised of three divisions: Commercial Office Supplies/Business to Business, New Office Furniture and Showroom, and Used Office Furniture Outlet.

Business Before Hours hosted by:

rabobank

Business After Hours hosted by:

warden’s office products center

nETwORkIng & REFERRAlS

nov } BuSineSS Before & after hourS

Coffee provided By:

RABOBANK

(209) 576-2599 • www.rabobankamerica.com 1400 Standiford Ave., Ste 12, Modesto, CA 95350 Rabobank is the bank of choice in many California communities, meeting the financial needs of local families, businesses and organizations with great banking products and personalized service by friendly, knowledgeable bankers.

dec 2011 17


For information on how The Principal® can help give you an edge, contact the Modesto Business Center.

©2011 Principal Financial Services, Inc. “The Principal,” “Principal Financial Group,” the Edge design, “We’ll Give You An Edge” and the illustrated character are registered service marks of Principal Financial Services, Inc. Insurance products from the Principal Financial Group® are issued by Principal National Life Insurance Company (except in New York) and Principal Life Insurance Company. Securities offered through Princor Financial Services Corporation, (800) 247-1737, member SIPC. Principal National, Principal Life, and Princor® are members of the Principal Financial Group, Des Moines, IA 50392. AD2071-01 | t1104040263

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new ChamBer memBerS

ACACIA PARK NURSING & REHAB CENTER Michelle donaldson 1611 Scenic Drive Modesto, CA 95355 (209) 622-6249 (209) 523-6529 [email protected] www.acaciaparkcare.com Hospitals - Skilled Nursing Facilities

FORGE INTEGRATION Alan Gwynn P.O. Box 843 Modesto, CA 95353 (209) 605-9253 (888) 202-9159 [email protected] Consulting Services

LARSA BANqUET HALL Ramina Kauryakaus P.O. Box 3218 Turlock, CA 95381 2107 E. Monte Vista Avenue Denair, CA 95316 (209) 634-7096(209) 634-7097 [email protected] www.larsabanquethall.com Banquet Rooms

NOR CAL RENTAL PROPERTY ASSOCIATION, INC. darryle Oakman 6360 Pacific Avenue, Suite 6 Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 476-0320 (209) 476-9717 [email protected] www.sjcrpa.com Real Estate Management

SAN JOAqUIN VALLEY TRADE ExCHANGE cristina Finn (209) 404-5058 (209) 491-2208 [email protected] http://sjvte.vbarter.com Barter Exchange

STUDIO V PILATES & FITNESS Victoria Popoff 4345 Spyres Way #201 Modesto, CA 95356 (209) 988-1807 [email protected] www.studiovwellness.com Fitness Studio

THE MEDIC’S PLUS William bell P.O. Box 577921 Modesto, CA 95357 (209) 575-3992 (209) 596-4342 [email protected] www.themedicsplus.com Medical Standby

WelcOMe

neW MEMBERS

2012 CalIFOrNIa aND FeDeral eMPlOYMeNt POSter

Set NOw aVaIlable if you only get one thing to protect your

company from liability and government fines in 2012, get the 2012

California and federal employment poster Set. whether you have one

employee or over 1000, you're required to post 17 California and federal

notices. you can avoid fines of up to $17,000 by purchasing a paper poster

with all 17 notices for one low price.

the modesto Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the California

Chamber of Commerce to provide, you, our valued member, a discounted

price. the California and federal employment poster Set is developed by

CalChamber, the experts and publishers of top-quality human resource

products and services with more than 100 years of experience "helping

California Business do Business."

the 2012 California and federal employment poster Set is a two poster

set with all the state and federal employment notices most California

employers must display for 2012, including the new 11'' x 17'' nlra

poster, which is currently required to be posted as of January 31st, 2012.

the poster set is now available and can be purchased at the Chamber.


Zorch magaZinepo Box 577893 modesto, Ca 95357(209) 569-1218

solid networks, inc.5686 pirrone rd., Salida, Ca 95368(209) 338-1400

first string sports, inc.3037 Sisk rd #6, modesto, Ca 95350(209) 232-2124

ontherun, inc.1700 mchenry ave Ste a13, modesto, Ca 95350(209) 572-1550

Jewelry vault3801 pelandale ave a-11, modesto, Ca 95356(209) 545-1100

the hire souce1317 oakdale rd. Ste 310, modesto, Ca 95355(209) 474-7591

riBBon CuttingS

iomlan construction services inc.1670 fulkerth, turlock, Ca 95381(209) 869-5090

vito’s ristorante modesto918 13th Street, modesto, Ca 95354(209) 576-1851

cellular solutions1315 w. roseburg ave. Ste 4, modesto, Ca 95350(209) 527-9650

modesto centre plaZa1000 l Street, modesto, Ca 95354(209) 577-6444

valley spirits llc553 mariposa rd., modesto, Ca 95354(209) 484-0311

hobby lobby stores, inc.2801 mchenry ave. modesto, Ca 95350(209) 521-6449


riBBon CuttingS

golden valley health centers1500 florida ave., modesto, Ca 95350(209) 385-5548

studio v pilates & fitness4345 Spyres way #201, modesto, Ca 95356(209) 988-1807

valley pension services, inc.301 Banner Court #3, modesto, Ca 95356(209) 572-7410

forge integrationpo Box 843, modesto, Ca 95353(209) 605-9253

ardyss international3405 tully rd. apt 43, modesto, Ca 95350(256) 613-6099

pura vida shaved ice1407 Standiford ave. Ste a1, modesto Ca 95350(209) 566-9632


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Save the date } Bette Belle Smith Day of Service, June 16, 2012

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the Bette Belle Smith day of

Service was founded in 2010 by the

modesto Chamber of Commerce

leadership modesto Class of

2009/2010. the day was created to

encourage citizens of modesto to

honor the legacy

of community

service legend

“mrs. modesto”

by giving back to

the community.

Bette Belle

worked

tirelessly on behalf of her

beloved city and encouraged

others to do the same. She helped

enrich the lives of all the city’s

residents, whether they realized it

or not, through her generosity and

work with countless civic groups

and organizations.

the leadership modesto Class of

2009/2010 is proud to continue the

legacy of one of our community’s

greatest leaders. we are currently

raising funds to promote the Bette

Belle Smith day of Service. your

contributions will be used for various

marketing materials including a

website that will be used for many

years to continue to promote the

event, the agencies who organize

volunteer opportunities, and, most

importantly, the life and legacy of

Bette Belle Smith. any contribution

you can make towards these

Honor the

legacy of

community

service legend

“Mrs. Modesto”

by giving

back to the

community.

sustainable efforts would be greatly

appreciated. donors who give $10

or more will be recognized on the

website as part of a list of “friends

of Bette Belle.” please email

[email protected] with

questions or requests for

additional information.



preSident’S CluBCirCle of influenCe

PLATINUM LEVELkaiser permanenteSave mart Supermarkets walmart

DIAMOND LEVELBank of the westCapax-giddings, Corby, hynes, inc.doctors Behavioral health Center-dmCdoctors medical Center-dmCdmC foundationfrito-lay Company, inc.medamerica Billing Services, inc.pacific Southwest Container

GOLD LEVELCoca-Cola Bottling Company, inc.Costco wholesaledoubletree hotelevergreen nursing & rehabilitation Care Centerfoster farms dairyJC penney Companymemorial medical Centerthe modesto Beemodesto irrigation districtmodesto nuts professional Baseballpost foods, llCraCor, division of parker hannifin CorporationSeneca foods, llCSysco food Services of Central Californiataco Bell

SILVER LEVEL5.11 tactical inc.aaaaaa locating, inc.at&tacme Construction Company, inc.ambeck mortgage associatesamerican Chevroletamerican medical responsearamark uniform Servicesatherton & associates, llpBJ’s restaurant & BrewhouseBrandman university part of Chapman universityBrown, fink, Boyce & astle, llpBunge oilsCalifornia State university, StanislausCandlewood SuitesCentral valley ag grinding/ Central valley ag transportCentral valley automotiveCentral valley Chrysler, Jeep, dodgeCentral valley nissan Central valley volkswagen hyundai Central valley medical groupChildren’s hospital Central CaliforniaChildren’s hospital & research Center-oaklandChukchansi gold resort & CasinoCitibankClark pest ControlComcastConstruction management CorporationCourtyard by marriottCovenant village of turlockCurtis legal group

damrell, nelson, Schrimp, pallios, pacher & Silvadel monte foodsdelta Sierra Beveragedirectline technologies, inc.english oaks nursing & rehabilitation hospitalf & m Bankgalletto ristorantegeorgia-pacificgianelli & associatesgilton Solid waste management, inc.grimbleby Coleman Cpas, inc.grover landscape Services, inc.harris moran Seed Companyheald Collegei.J. larsen pumps, inc.infiniti of modestoinstitute of technologyinternational paper Companyitt technical instituteJS west & Companykaplan Collegemv transportation, inc.magnum Boots uSa inc.mchenry medical group, inc.mercer foodsmocse Credit unionmodesto Commerce Bankmodesto toyotamraz, amerine & associatesnestle uSaoak valley Community Banko’Brien’s marketolam Spices & vegetables, inc.pacific gas & electric Companypanelized Structures, inc.pepsi Bottling groupplastipak packaging prime Shine Car washrabobankraley’srizo-lopez foods, inc.rocha transportation San Joaquin valley CollegeSeven up Bottling CorporationSolecon industrial ContractorsSolid networks, inc.Springhill Suites by marriottStanislaus food products CompanyStanislaus Surgical hospitalStorer CoachwaysSutter gould medical foundationturlock irrigation districtuS Bank valley Bio energy, llCvalley first Credit unionvalley lexus-Bmwversa Cold logistics Servicesw.h. Breshears, inc.warden’s office products Centerwarden’s office furniture outletwells fargo Bankwells fargo Commercial Bankingwinton, ireland, Strom & green insurance agencyyosemite meat Company, inc.

ECOnOmIC DEvElOpmEnT

507 West F Street Oakdale, CA 95361 (209) 847-8066 www.jhaidlendesign.com

Space PlanningCorporate BrandingColor Consultation

Project ManagementFacility MaintenanceFurnishings

dec 2011 23

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Prime Shine Car Wash is proud to present The Land of Opportunity.Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial

achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Express is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor

their successes in their industry and in the community.

Jonathan SciabicaVice PresidentNick Sciabica & Sons (Sciabica’s Olive Oil)

Nick Sciabica & Sons was founded in 1936 by my Great Grandfather, who learned the art of olive oil production in Marsala, Sicily. When he arrived in the US he made his way to California in search of the “Mediterranean climate,” but longed for the delicious olive oil he was used to in Italy.

Our primary product is Premium California Extra Virgin Olive Oil but we also produce cold-pressed Fresh Flavored Olive Oils infused with fresh

fruit or herbs, and we provide many fine foods to local restaurants and retail customers including vinegar, Stanislaus Foods tomatoes, cheese and pasta. After 75 years in operation, my Uncle, Father and I run the company. My father handles production and my uncle and I handle sales. We have titles, but it’s really a family operation and we have a great cohesive relationship. We currently have about 20

employees, including the family.

What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now? My Grandfather would say that Olive Oil was in his

blood and that’s how I’ve always felt about the business as well. I’ve had other jobs, but everything I’ve done just seemed to point me in this direction.

Do you have any particular history that has contributed to helping you achieve your goals? My family history has contributed significantly. Everything I know about selling olive oil I learned from my Grandfather, my Uncle and my Father.

What challenges have you had to overcome? There is a huge learning curve to the California Olive Oil business. It is quite

unlike other industries in California, and we are still in our infancy. In other industries, a fantastic product will sell itself but we always have to

be educating consumers along the path. Ten years ago, I thought I could

simply apply the marketing skills I learned in college and take the business to new heights, but I soon learned I was marketing to a consumer that was not ready for my product. Though our industry has grown, California Olive Oil still represents a small fraction of the US Olive Oil market.

What is the single biggest reason that you have achieved the level of success you have? My family has been dedicated to producing an excellent product at any cost and has always provided customer service as if our customers were family. It is only because of our loyal family of customers that we have been able to continue for 75 years and four generations.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs? As a business, giving back is always part of our goal. We take great pride in being able to help our local community through donations.

What are your plans for the future? We have high hopes for the olive oil industry in California. Our goal is education. Someday, we hope everyone will know the flavor and health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? Don’t be short sighted. Often you will have to sacrifice (financially or otherwise) for your long-term goals. Don’t be afraid to lose money to keep a customer happy. When things get rough, your loyal customers will prop you up.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity? My Family has called Modesto home for over 8 decades. That’s because we have always “felt the love” in Modesto. If you provide a good product or service and treat your customers with respect, the Modesto community will reward you with longevity.

Quiet Confidence | Proven Excellence

1014 16th Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 521-6260GIANELLI-LAW.COM

Luis PerezBusiness &

Estate PlanningReal Estate

Eric T. NielsenBusiness TransactionsBusiness Litigation

Jonathan SCiaBiCa


WORK IN

dec 2011 25

Since 2008, valley wealth, inc. has been

modesto’s premiere independent financial

services and advisory company. the firm, named

2010’s Small Business of the year by the modesto

Chamber of Commerce, supports the local

community with wealth management services

and annual informational

conferences.

Jeff Burrow and Jason gordo

founded valley wealth and

have grown the firm by more

than 50% per year since its

inception. “we’re always

looking at growth,” said gordo,

“both in employees and in the

amount of work we do with

local clients and businesses.”

valley wealth’s independence is a major selling

point for many clients, said gordo. “Because

we’re local and community-based we have

the freedom to work directly for our clients

and represent their needs and goals to the

investment community.”

gordo and Burrow both got their start in major

wall Street investment firms, but both felt their

clients’ needs and goals were not best served

by large organizations. “we wanted to build a

unique organization that served our clients

in an environment free of conflicts and gave

them greater access to quality investment,”

said gordo.

every year, valley wealth holds This Economy

and You, a free conference featuring local

businesspersons who speak on

topics relevant to modesto’s

economy. the company is

also currently developing the

San Joaquin valley Business

forecasting Summit with CSu

Stanislaus. this upcoming

conference is intended to give

local business leaders a better

idea of the true state of the

local economy, and to provide

information that can help

them make better decisions

on how and when to grow their organizations.

valley wealth’s mission doesn’t end with its

client roster. the company is committed to

giving back to the community by working with

charitable organizations and providing significant

financial assistance to local nonprofits including

Community hospice, the gallo Center for the

arts and Sierra vista. the firm’s commitment to

its clients and its community make the company

an ideal model for a responsible local business.

vAllEy WEAltH

Service when you need it(courtesy of never Boring design Associates)

A Great Brand Starts With YouA great logo is a key component of your company’s brand, so it is essential that your designer know you, your company and—most importantly—your market. A thorough understanding of your market helps to place your brand on sure footing and ensure that you don’t waste your time or money on strategies that aren’t scaled to your business. Every business has different needs. Whether you’re just opening your doors, making your first expansion or competing on a national level, we take pride in creating unique designs that are tailored to fit you.

ModeSto MeAnS BuSineSSthe chamber stands by this statement. We practice it on a daily basis. As an organization, we use Chamber Members exclusively. We hope we can ‘count on you’ to practice using Chamber Members to meet all of your business needs. You can find new and current members online at www.modchamber.org, or through our 2010 directory at http://www.villageprofile.com/california/modesto.

Progress Magazine is the voice of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business publication in Stanislaus County. For more information or advertising info call (209) 526-9136.

© N

ever

Bor

ing

Des

ign

• ne

verb

orin

g.co

m

ADVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN I WEB DESIGN I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA I COMMERCIAL SIGNS

Because we’re local

and community-

based we have the

freedom to work

directly for

our clients

WORK INa series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies



DEcEMbER 2011

1 buSINeSS beFOre HOurS

doubleTree Hotel Location: 1150 9th Street

Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

8 buSINeSS aFter HOurS

cash-dudley Speiller & Torres Professional Law corporation & AIA/Mid-Valley Promotions, Inc. Location: 518 13th Street

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

JANuARy 2012

12 buSINeSS beFOre HOurS Kemper cPA Group, LLP Location: 1700 Standiford Ave Suite 200

Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

19 buSINeSS aFter HOurS dale commons Assisted Living Location: 3900 Dale Road

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

ChamBer Calendar

gift cards available in any denomination

*$5 bonus voucher valid 1/2/12-4/1/12

Excludes custom gift cards

1533 Oakdale Road Modesto • (209) 521-8667

When it comes to being first in healthcare, a hospital is only as good as its leadership. Doctors Medical Center Modesto is proud of its best-in-class clinicians and administrators who work side by side to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients. From advanced technology to specially trained medical staff, DMC is continuing to lead the region with certified Centers of Excellence in Trauma, Stroke and Cardiac Care to name a few.

FIRST Chest Pain Center in the RegionFIRST AND ONLY Certified Primary Stroke Center in the RegionFIRST Level II Trauma Center in the RegionFIRST Level III NICU in the Region

(From left to right):Alex Mari, MD, Chief of StaffAlan Schaffert, MD & Cheryl Harless, RN, Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center DesignationGeorge Arata, Esq., Chairman of the BoardPeter Broderick, MD, California Academy of Family Physicians (CAFP) Family Physician of the Year 2011John Pfeffer, MD, Stanislaus Medical Society Physician of the year 2011 and da Vinci robotic surgery pioneerEric Ramos, MD, California Academy of Family Physicians (CAFP) Family Physician of the Year 2010/Chief Medical OfficerDennis Litos, CEO, California Hospital Association Certificate of Distinction Award 2010 and American Hospital Association Grassroots Champion Award 2011John Merillat, MD & Kate Donovan, RN, Chest Pain Center Designation by the Society of Chest Pain CentersNiamh Seavy, MD & Anita Schlenker, RN, American College of Surgeons Verified Level II Trauma Center

For a physician referral, call 1.888.284.6641 or visit dmc-modesto.com

The FIRST name in Healthcare Leadership.

Download our App!

FUNNY, IT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE A DOCTOR’S OFFICE.

Announcing A new wAy to connect witH your doctor. Many of your records such

as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed

online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s

doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive.

To learn more, go to kp.org/centralvalley.

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December Progress magazine

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Transcript of December Progress magazine