February Progress 2013

February 2013

Vol. 34 Issue 2

modchamber.org

H

e

a

lth

c

a

r

e

:

T

h

e

H

e

a

r

tb

e

a

t o

f

O

u

r

C

o

m

m

u

n

ity

Ag Aware Teaching Tomorrow’s Healthcare ProfessionalsBtoB Trade Show

Effectively managing benefit options for employees or for yourself and your family can seem complicated in this rapidly changing healthcare environment. As an agent representing Aflac, I enjoy consulting with my account managers and policyholders to learn more about their specific needs to help them maximize their healthcare dollars. As an Ambassador for the Modesto Chamber, I provide a similar service to the Chamber members I visit, gaining valuable feedback relative to their business, advising them of the Chamber event, program or committee opportunities they can take advantage of, and help them optimize their membership investment. You can reach me at (209)204-1733, or [email protected]. P

Ambassador Corner

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

Everything! Find the events thatkeep our area hopping at mydesto.com

A:Q: What’s happeningin Modesto today?

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.

Executive Committee ChairmanRalph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Chairman-ElectDavid Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Past ChairmanKathy Halsey, Individual Member

Vice Chairman, Internal OperationsPatricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA

Vice Chairman, External OperationsCraig Lewis, Prudential California Realty

Vice Chairman, Member RelationsBill Moreno, Fire2Wire

Vice Chairman, Events & Special ProjectsLaura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions

DirectorsPamela Cullors, Sysco Food Services of Central California Dan Garcia, Tri Counties BankDavid Halvorson, American Chevrolet Brad Hawn, CHGDoug Johnson, Reach Business SolutionsWarren Kirk, Doctors Medical CenterSteve Madison, STANCOMichael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.Ron Owen, Bank of the WestChris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents, Inc.Jim Ridenour, Individual MemberEric Tobias, F&M BankRuben Villalobos, The Villalobos Legal GroupJeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by JeremiahAmy Wolfe, AgSafe

Ex-OfficioBill Bassitt, The AllianceKeith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior CollegeDavid Boring, Never Boring Design AssociatesGreg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Cecil Russell, President/CEOModesto Chamber of [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]

Tim Splan

5 Business to Business Trade Show

FEbRuARy 3

CONTENTS FEbRuARy 2013

leadershIp

4 Message from the CEO

4 Chairman’s Corner

coVer story

6 Healthcare: The Heartbeat of Our Community

communIty deVelopment

9 Chamber Board Perspective13 From the Experts25 Work in Progress

economIc deVelopment

16 New Member Profiles

20 People on the Move

networkIng & reFerrals 17 Business Before and After Hours18 New Chamber Members 26 Calendar

10 stanIslaus green team

leadership

meSSage from The ceoBy Chamber CEO Cecil Russell

chairman’S cornerBy Chamber Chairman Ralph Curtis

This issue of Progress Magazine focuses on healthcare. We are very fortunate to live in a community with world class healthcare provided by such facilities as Doctors Medical Center, Memorial Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Gould, Modesto Surgical Center and the Central Valley Specialty Hospital opening in early April. These facilities are well staffed with some of the best professional caregivers in our state. I recently had the occasion to utilize these services for an emergency procedure. The care and attention I received was superb. From the moment I entered the facility and throughout

all of the tests, through surgery, recuperation and discharge, my experience was dispensed with the utmost care and compassion. I wish to thank them all.

These facilities provide many hundreds of jobs, not only nurses and technical personnel, but administrators, food handlers, service personnel and many more. DMC has over 2,400 personnel, including over 1,000 nurses. Memorial Hospital employs over 2900 personnel including over 1,200 nurses. Stanislaus Surgical Hospital employs 71 registered nurses, and Central Valley Surgical Hospital will create over 300 new jobs in the next two years. In the combined areas of Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties, Kaiser Permanente employs a total of 3,377 personnel, including 900 trained nurses. These hospitals have more than 1,100 doctors serving patients and providing a wide breadth of services. These jobs help fuel our economy. In addition, our community has many healthcare professionals in private practice, ranging from general practitioners to specialists representing most medical fields. Total health professionals in our community represent over 10,000 jobs.

Many educational institutions in our area offer training to people interested in a career in healthcare. This exposure and training begins in our high schools with help from nurses from our local hospitals. Modesto Junior College offers classes in nursing, repertory care, certified nursing assistant and medical assistant training. Nearly 400 students are currently being educated in a new, state-of-the-art facility on the college’s West Campus. California State University, Stanislaus offers six basic nursing courses and four pre-license classes. Several local private colleges also offer medical training. San Joaquin Valley College offers five medical/nursing programs; Heald College offers four medical/nursing classes; Brandman University offers Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate of Nursing programs, along with eight nursing certificate programs, and Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers programs ranging from LVN to radiologic technology.

Healthcare experts agree that “The Affordable Care Act” (ObamaCare) recently passed by Congress will change the way healthcare functions for all of us. Moving forward, healthcare cannot be provided the same way that it has been for the last fifty years; it must, and will, change as we attempt to provide services into the future.

This issue of Progress Magazine features interviews with a few local healthcare professionals. Throughout the year, we will continue to feature more articles about healthcare and the related jobs that help our economy. We are blessed to have the quantity and quality of healthcare that we do in this area, directly contributing to our quality of life. P

It is already February and time to address why the business community should not only be interested, but should get involved in encouraging business people to consider running for local off ice. A number of seats are open this election year: Modesto School Board, Modesto City Council and MID Board. Key county positions will appear on the 2014 ballot, including Stanislaus County Sheriff, Stanislaus County District Attorney, Stanislaus

County Clerk-Recorder, Stanislaus County Superintendent of Schools and Stanislaus County Supervisors.

How do we assure that our community has well-functioning government agencies and schools? One way is to see that they are overseen by elected council and boards that include a mix of people who know about f inances and how to run an effective organization. People with business experience take a more business-friendly approach and often make very good school board members, council members and special district leaders.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free workshop for people considering running for local off ice. The f irst session facilitated by Judy Sly of The Modesto Bee, will be held March 13th at the Modesto Chamber off ice at 7:00 p.m. Attendance does not obligate you; it will simply give you a sense of the rewards and challenges of elective off ice so you can decide whether you might want to be a candidate later this year or in the future. Presenters are Stanislaus County Supervisor Bill O’Brien, Ceres Unif ied School District Trustee Teresa Guerrero, and Turlock Irrigation District Director Michael Frantz.

There are satisfactions to serving in public office that are not always obvious. The most satisfying will be to know that you have made a positive difference in our community. Join us and see how you can make that difference. P

cecil ruSSellchamber ceo

ralph curTiSchairman

4 Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

DON’TPROMISE

WHAT YOU CAN’T

DELIVERWhat sets us apart from our competition….dependability.

WE DELIVER WHAT WE PROMISE

Lesson #1

printing • mailing • fulfillment • promotional items • cross media marketing

parksprinting.com | 209.576.2568

With just five months to plan, businesses are getting a head start

on preparing for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Business-

to-Business Trade Show, from booth themes to marketing

materials. This year’s show will take on a new look and feel,

incorporating the Chamber’s June Business After Hours event into

the networking and business aspect of the Trade Show. The floor

plan will be designed to integrate numerous industries, demos and

food sampling stations.

In its 9th year, the BtoB Trade Show will offer new, existing, and

non-profit members an opportunity to market their products and

services to both Chamber and community businesses.

New this year is the Stanislaus Green Team Arena. The arena

will highlight local business vendors throughout the

county who will promote ways to simultaneously be

economically and environmentally smart.

The Stanislaus REACON Team, which offers

free assessments to local businesses, will

also be in attendance to answer questions

and offer resources to help your business save

money while becoming more environmentally responsible.

Save the date and start your planning now. Exhibit reservations

begin February 1, 2013. Be sure to ask about the

“Early Bird Special.” P

When: June 20, 2013

Where: Modesto Centre Plaza

Time: 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

FEbRuARy 5

Over the last century, the need for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness has been joined by another universal requirement: the need to maintain and promote good health. The need for quality healthcare transcends barriers to reach every member of the population, but as the population grows, providing healthcare to every member becomes a greater challenge.

Over the last few years, Modesto’s major medical facilities have risen to this challenge and have produced a wide range of accomplishments—from technological advancements to developments in patient care strategies—that address the needs of the future. This month, Progress Magazine is proud to go inside Modesto’s three largest healthcare facilities to shine a light on one of Stanislaus County’s strongest and fastest growing industries.

The Business of Good HealthHealthcare doesn’t stop at patient care, it’s also a major mover of the national economy. Nationally, healthcare spending accounts for an estimated 18% of each year’s GDP, about $2.7 trillion. As the industr y expands and changes over the next decade, this figure is expected to top $3 trillion and reach 20% of GDP. Much of this sum goes to support the industry’s increasingly skilled workforce of doctors, nurses and the army of staff and administrators needed to deliver quality care to large populations of patients.

{ Cover story }

Healthcare: the heartbeat oF our communIty

By Justin Souza

Locally, the largest evidence of these healthcare expenditures comes in the form of the world class hospitals that operate within our city limits. From Doctor’s Medical Center, and Memorial Medical Center to the Kaiser Permanente facility, Modesto’s major medical facilities provide jobs to thousands of area residents, generate significant tax revenues and support a wide range of community projects, all while keeping the residents of Stanislaus County as healthy as they can be.

The 51-year-old Doctor’s Medical Center (DMC) is the oldest hospital facility still in operation in Modesto. According to Warren Kirk, Chief Executive Officer of DMC, the hospital is proud to be the low cost provider of the local healthcare industry. While low cost might imply a compromise of quality, Kirk said that DMC has not

sacrificed its level of care to cut costs. “We’re very busy because we have great

quality, have managed our costs very well and we don’t turn people

away. I think that’s very positive for people in this community.”

DMC has more than 600 doctors on staff and employs over 2,000 people in its main hospital

facility as well as its inpatient

psychiatric facility. Last year, this skilled workforce served more than 20,000 patients in the hospital and more than 70,000 patients through its emergency department.

Kirk added that in 2012, DMC was proud to update its daVinci surgical robot—which has been used at the hospital since 2005—to the newest available technology as part of a $10 million investment in capital equipment intended to prepare the hospital for the future.

Memorial Medical Center (MMC) saw its first patient at its Coffee Road facility in 1970. Over the last 43 years, the nonprofit medical center has built a reputation for exceptional patient care. Last year, the hospital had over 21,000 admissions and served nearly 74,000 patients through its emergency department, and included more than 2,600 employees in its payroll.

CEO Daryn Kumar, who has led MMC since April of 2012, said that as an essential part of the Sutter Health Network, MMC is pushing toward an integrated model of care that takes a wider view of community health care.

“The healthcare industry—and specifically hospitals—are not going to be successful over the next two years if we continue to do things the way we’ve done them over the last 50 years,” said Kumar. “We have to move beyond just thinking about what goes on inside the hospital but instead start thinking about care management across all the continuums of care.” These continuums of care tie in preventative measures to keep people out of the hospital, care management to ensure hospital stays are short and effective and strong aftercare services that keep patients from bouncing back to the facility.

The integrated model of care necessitates community outreach, added Kumar, as well as partnerships with organizations which can help support health for the community at large. “We’ve got to create partnerships with folks that we didn’t have to partner with before. Whether it be the medical group side of things, skilled nursing facilities, acute rehab or other partners that can help manage patients medically

outside the hospital.”

Corwin Harper, Senior Vice President and Area Manager for Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Service Area—including Kaiser’s 5-year-old facility in Modesto—also pointed to integrated care as the future of Kaiser’s healthcare strategies. Kaiser—which serves over 264,000 members throughout the Central Valley with two hospitals and six medical offices—employs more than 3,000 staff members and nearly 500 physicians in its integrated care system. The Modesto facility is designed from top to bottom with integration in mind.

“Kaiser Permanente is an integrated delivery system leveraged by the hospital, the health plan and a physician run medical group,” said Harper. “We are integrated together and focused on providing care to a population of people. Our goal is to focus on prevention and wellness and offer a health plan product that is very attractive with a great structure supporting it through our hospital and our outpatient delivery system.”

Dr. Moses Elam, Physician-in-Chief for Kaiser’s Central Valley facilities said that physicians in the health facility also integrate technology to improve patient services. “We’re using [tablets] in our medical center in order to help our doctors engage and provide real time audits for work,” said Elam. “It’s helping us drive performance and hit some great service scores and great service performance which has put us in the top 10-15% in the Modesto facility. There’s a whole potpourri of what we’re already doing with technology, and it’s going to expand.”

Changes to ComeEach of Modesto’s facilities is focused on preparing for a future that is as yet unknown. Recent healthcare legislation promises a bevy of changes to the industry, but until many of them are enacted, the full impact is still a mystery.

“We’re all cautious, and until all of these components are put in place, we’re not sure what we’ll need to do,” said Kumar. Across the board, each of Modesto’s major facilities is planning ahead and is looking at the future optimistically.

No matter what changes the future may hold, Modesto’s healthcare industry is certain to continue to offer patients innovative, world class care right in their own backyards. P

FEbRuARy 7

Everyone knows that the old refrigerator in the garage is an energy hog, but do you know how much electricity your other appliances and electronics use?

Now, through partnerships with the Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts, county residents can check out power usage meters at any county library to assess the amount of electricity drawn by their home appliances. Many are surprised to learn how much electricity is used even when appliances and electronics are turned off. Armed with this knowledge, consumers can take a few simple steps to reduce their energy use and their electric bills. Energy saved by unplugging devices when not in use or shutting down power strips can add up to significant savings.

The power usage meter checkout program started about a year ago when TID donated two Kill-a-Watt EZ meters for each library in its service area. MID made a similar grant last fall to make the meters available in Modesto, Salida and other areas covered by MID. In addition, Watts-Up? PRO meters are available in Modesto and Salida. Watts Up? PRO meters measure energy use over a longer period of time and provide more detailed information.

To place a hold on a power meter, visit stanislauslibrary.org and search (title keyword) for Kill a Watt or Watts Up or simply ask library staff for assistance. For more information, call (209) 558-7814. P

eduCation

Flowers and chocolate express your love on Valentine’s Day, but when it comes to your car, you need something else to rev up the engine. If your car looks like its best days are in the rearview mirror, WE CAN FIX THAT. With our state of the art equipment, eco-friendly paint, and gentle dent repair, you and your car will love us. Remember, you have the right to choose your body shop.

When your car’s broken,so is your heart.

Auto & Home • Business Insurance • Health Insurance

1165 Scenic Dr., Ste AModesto, CA 95350www.trustopi.comlic. #of74463

NOW IN STOCKTON TOO!Waterfront Warehouse445 W. Weber Ave.(209) 451-9010

Call and Save Today!(209) 338-5500

www.trustomega.com

TRUST OPIto keep your

world covered

YOUR LOCAL INSURANCE HERO

From Grads to Graffiti, we've got you covered.

Call 209.544.6511 today!

www.studiowarner.comLook us up on Facebook

STaniSlauS counTy library


The Health Careers Academy is a three year comprehensive program on the Davis High School campus open to all Modesto City School District students. The Health Careers Academy (HCA), established in 1992, incorporates all graduation requirements with education about health occupation careers in a cross-curriculum

fashion. Students who complete the HCA curriculum graduate with HCA honors, and frequently at the top of the class.

In 2012, one third of the graduating HCA students were in the top 15% of the graduating class, five with a 4.0 GPA or higher. The Health Careers Academy at Davis is grant supported through the California Department of Education and follows strict guidelines.

The courses within the HCA include medical science, biology, chemistry, English, and history according to grade level. All of the core courses are college preparatory, and some are 2+2 courses with the Modesto Junior College. Our senior English class meets UC/CSU requirements for writing proficiency.

The HCA works collaboratively with local healthcare facilities and professionals to provide current and relevant presentations and job-shadow opportunities, exposing the students to the wide world of healthcare. Seniors are enrolled

in one of three ROP health occupation courses preparing them for employment immediately after high school. Next fall, a new course, Sports Medicine, will be offered as an additional capstone course.

An additional benefit for the student is an annual health fair which focuses on student research and presentations.

Students are required to prepare visual presentations, speak publicly, provide blood pressure screenings at public events, and perform 25 hours of community service annually while in the HCA.

Having grown up through the ROP program in healthcare at Davis in the early ‘80s, the HCA has a special interest for me. I believe in the students, the path of learning, and see value in education from professionals in the career choice. As a practicing registered nurse, I bring the real world into the classroom with examples, speakers, and more. Teaching the medical science courses allows the students to benefit from my knowledge, experience, and interest in them and their choices. Career technical education is intimately vital to the future of our students. The path of graduation, followed by either college, employment, or military should be encouraged. Teaching a dynamic program such as healthcare enables students to explore potential occupations, be informed about options, and begin the path of successful life styles. P

Teaching Tomorrow’S healThcare profeSSionalS

By Tom Nipper, RN, Program Coordinator, Health Careers Academy, Davis High School

Tom nipper

eduCation

chamber board perSpecTiveBy Warren Kirk, CEO of Doctors Medical Center

It’s hard to believe, but a year has gone by and I am happy to have started my second year serving our community in my role at Doctors Medical Center. In the past year I’ve had opportunities to talk with many people about our hospital, and to learn more about the unique attributes of our community. When I was offered the position of CEO at DMC a few things about the opportunity stood out for me.

• Most important was the chance to work with a medical center committed to bringing top level care to the community. I am proud to say that Doctors Medical Center is the community’s first accredited Chest Pain Center (Society of Chest Pain Centers), Certified Primary Stroke Center ( Joint Commission), and Level II Verified Trauma Center (American College of Surgeons).

• The commitment to provide care for all our neighbors is also extremely important to me, and Doctors Medical Center provides over $150 million in charity and discounted care each year for those who are uninsured or underinsured.

• Finally, the opportunity to live and work in the Modesto area was attractive to my wife and me, and over the past year it’s been nice to meet so many people whose goal it is to make this community a great place to work and raise our families.

The healthcare industry remains central for any thriving community. As part of an investor-owned hospital system, Doctors Medical Center pays more than $3.5 million in local taxes that go toward the improvement of infrastructure and community programs. Additionally, DMC employs over 2,000 people resulting in a total economic impact of almost $209 million for our community (Salaries/Wages/Benefits and Capital Fund Reinvestment).

Working at a complex organization like Doctors Medical Center is a team effort, and I am very fortunate to work with physicians and staff who are committed to delivering excellent patient care. Also, I have the unique opportunity to work with a local Governing Board comprised of business leaders and physicians who oversee the operations of Doctors Medical Center. We stand together, our Board, our medical staff, and all 2,000 employees in a firm commitment to meet the challenging needs of our community. As health care reform marches forward, Doctors Medical Center will continue to grow and evolve to ensure high quality affordable care, and to achieve our Mission which is to improve the lives of every person who walks through our doors.

I thank you for this opportunity and look forward to serving you for many years to come. P

Community development

warren KirK

FEbRuARy 9

stanislaus Green team

The Stanislaus Green Team has been growing at a rapid rate. In a mere eight weeks, the meeting attendance has grown to over 50 members, nine REACON team members, and several generous sponsors. It is very inspirational to experience and witness the overwhelming excitement that Stanislaus County businesses are demonstrating to simply be economically and environmentally smart. Inevitably, it has cultivated an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.

Anyone is welcome to join the Stanislaus Green Team meetings, which are held the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Kirk Lindsey Center. There are only a few opportunities left to get a spot on the REACON Team. Green Team sponsorships are also available. A big thank you goes out to all Green Team members and sponsors for their dedication and effort to the Stanislaus Green Team program. P

StaniSlauS Green teamBy Rikki Keenan

riKKi KeenancoordinaTor

Stanislaus Green Team MeetingFebruary 21, 2013, 10 : 00 am

Kirk Lindsey Center1020 10th Street, Suite 102

Modesto, CA

Interested in REACON Team membership or Stanislaus Green Team sponsorship? Call (209) 577-5757 or e-mail [email protected]

REACON Team Members

Green Team Supporters

(Across from Brenden Theater and right next door to Fuzio’s)

wintonireland.com l Since 1913 l Lic # 0596517

MODESTO (209) 529-3480 l TURLOCK (209) 667-0995

Front Jeff Quinn, Marc O’Neil, Marcia Messer back Rick Moen, Dan Mello

Workers Comp I Agricultural I Health & Benefits I Professional

Crop I Commercial Packages I Home & Auto

Celebrating our100TH ANNIVERSARY

©

nev

erbo

ring.

com


Many business owners wrestle with whether they should buy or lease their real estate. There are f ive primary areas to discuss when considering the best strategy.

Start by understanding your long term business and personal goals. Where will I be in f ive to ten years? Do I anticipate my business growing or stabilizing? Do I plan to sell my business at some point in

the future? What is my retirement plan?

Next, you need to def ine your business’ need for real estate. Do I have specif ic location or visibility requirements? Do I need to manage risk with regard to business size and length of commitment? Does my business require signif icant space improvements? Does my use need to be surrounded by specif ic compatible uses?

After that, you should clarify your investment and tax strategy. Where will I achieve the greatest return on investment? Is my money better spent in the business or on real estate? How can I achieve the lowest monthly facility costs? Does it make sense to diversify where I invest my business capital? What tax consequences – personal and business – affect the decision to buy versus lease?

The next question is: can I do it? Do I have the f inancial capacity to purchase a building? Can I afford the down payment and ongoing associated costs? Can I get f inancing for this?

Finally, how does all of the above coordinate with real estate market timing and building availability? Is a suitable building available? Is now a good time in the market to buy? Is now a good time to lease? What opportunities are available in the current market? P

Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Chamber’s 18th Annual Ag Aware Luncheon, April 11, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at the SOS Club, 819 Sunset Avenue. Our

Keynote speaker is Jim Aschwanden, Executive Director

of the California Ag Teachers Association and Student FFA representatives.

Since its inception, the Ag Aware program has raised over $130,000 for Modesto City Schools FFA programs. These funds help FFA students travel to state and national leadership conventions and assist with the purchase of new equipment for FFA programs. In addition, the Ag Aware luncheon provides a forum to educate and inform the local business community on current agricultural issues.

Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available for this important event. Tickets are $25 per person and are available for advance purchase at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce office at 1114 J Street, Modesto. Table sponsorships are available at $350 (includes 8 tickets and advertising package) and may be purchased by contacting Minnie Dodge at (209) 577-5757. Call now to make your reservation! P

A short seminar for small business owners and financial professionals on how to make real estate purchase decisions.Business owners and advisors making real estate decisions.Tuesday, February 19th 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.Greens Central - 953 Tenth Street, Modesto.Modesto Chamber of Commerce, Delta Bank, NAI Benchmark, Success Capital

WHAT:

WHO:

WHEN:WHERE:

SPONSORED BY:

when doeS iT maKe SenSe To buy a building for

my buSineSS?By Ryan Swehla, NAI Benchmark

ryan Swehla

PEOPLE ARE THE BOTTOM LINE

You've worked hard to get where you are.

Put your trust in a firm motivated to help

you go further.

it's the people behind the numbers.

Contact us today at 209-527-4220 or gccpas.net.

Ag AwAre

Luncheon

PLAnned

MINI-SEMINAR: REAL ESTATE DECISIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

FEbRuARy 11

VIntage FaIre nursIng and

rehabIlItatIon center

{ small Business spotliGht }

In celebration of our enjoyment in serving theModesto community for 11 years!

Dale Commons and Modesto Chamber of CommerceCordially Invite You To A...

Wine Tasting

Silent Auction

Dale Commons

Thursday • March 21, 20135:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Showcasing wines and pairing foods fromFrance, Italy, Australia, California & Portugal

All proceeds from our silent auction benefit thepatients and families of Community Hospice.

&...Trip Around the World

Business After Hours209.526.2053

3900 Dale Road •Modesto, CA 95356www.dalecommons.com • RCFE #507004998

Independent and Assisted Living Community

As healthcare is changing, Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has worked hard to ensure that we continue to exceed in meeting the needs of our residents. The staff of Vintage Faire is

extremely proud to provide the highest level of care in the industry. From its state-of-the-art physical

and occupational therapy programs, to its family-like atmosphere, Vintage Faire is setting the standard as the provider of choice for the Central Valley. Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation has earned the Bronze Commitment to Quality, a National quality award for outstanding performance in the health care profession.

When you enter Vintage Faire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, you enter a community of compassion. You’ll see it in our people and in our service. We are committed to meeting the needs of our residents, families and community. We strive to serve as extended family, all united in a circle of care and linked by shared responsibility for our residents. It’s this community of compassion

and attention to individual needs that we believe sets us apart as a model of quality care.

www.vintagefairenursingandrehabilitationcenter.com Phone: (209) 521-2094 P


You would think that this simple question would have a simple answer. Unfortunately, that’s just not the case. Due to changes in our understanding of the impact of preventive care, rapidly evolving medical technology, and the natural variation between each of us as human beings, there is no simple answer.

The best thing to do is develop a partnership with your primary care provider (PCP) to ensure you are doing what is right for you.

From 20 to 40 years old, healthy women should see their health care provider once a year, healthy men every five years. Everyone should have an annual checkup after that.

The simplest and cheapest tests are for blood pressure and body mass index (for overweight and obesity). Also important are glucose and cholesterol tests. These assess your risks for the

how ofTen Should i geT a checKup and whaT TeSTS do i need To geT?

By Paul DeChant, MD, MBA, CEO, Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

{ From the eXperts }

dr. paul dechanT

greatest health care problems in our society – diabetes and heart disease. If you are at risk, lifestyle changes and medications can significantly reduce your chances of heart attack, stroke, kidney

failure, blindness, and loss of limbs. You will likely live longer than your parents, so you want to stay healthy as long as you can.

Cancer prevention and screening is also important. We have reduced risk of death from cancer of the colon, breast, prostate, cervix, lung, and skin. The frequency of testing varies with your age and past history. Take preventive measures and get the screening tests that your PCP recommends.

There are a growing number of immunizations that reduce risks of preventable disease and death, and recommendations for these change every year as well.

Since there are no easy answers, a partnership with your PCP is the best thing you can do to ensure you are doing what is right for you. P

“The best thing to do is develop a partnership

with your primary care provider (PCP) to

ensure you are doing what is right for you.”

Members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce are eligible for greatly discounted rates on the following media outlets.

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

• 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.

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

www.ovcb.comOakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock

Patterson • Ripon • Escalon • Stockton • Manteca

Experience business banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of old-

fashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need.

Let us make your banking, our business.

We mean businessOak Valley COmmunity Bank

“Oak Valley delivers – first-class service,

competitive returns, and the ability to work with local people who understand the needs

of Central Valley businesses.”

– Hamilton & Company, LLP, CPAs, Modesto

Steve Sereno, Meredith Hamilton, Mark Cook, Cathy Stapley, and Jeffrey Hamilton,

with Oak Valley’s Ron Davenport, 209.343.7627

“Oak Valley delivers – first-class service,

competitive returns, and the ability to work with local people who understand the needs

of Central Valley businesses.”

– Hamilton & Company, LLP, CPAs, Modesto

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock Patterson • Ripon • Escalon • Stockton • Manteca

Experience business banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of old-

fashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need.

Let us make your banking, our business.

FEbRuARy 13

1-888-936-PLAN (7526) I www.hpsj.com

HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS...

- Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists

- Easy access to your personal doctor

- Choice of hospitals and pharmacies

- Local and nationwide emergency care

- Free 24/7 advice nurse

- Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties

Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.


Guest Column

Guest ColumnnursIng – It’s not what we do, It’s who we are

By Sue Zwahlen, RN, Member, Modesto City School Board

One memorable night I was working at the triage desk in the emergency room. I was simultaneously caring for a man who was critically ill, observing a young boy who was grimacing in pain with an apparent forearm fracture and caring for an 85-year-old woman with active bleeding when a man with crushing chest pain approached me for help.

After assessing and proper ly

assigning each patient, a pleasant onlooker addressed me saying, “I’ve watched you take care of everyone here for awhile. How do you do this?” Then he thanked me.

His simple acknowledgement of our care inspires me to this day. I will always appreciate that man’s kindness.

At Doctors Medical Center, we have a list of patient rights. The first one is the “right to considerate and respectful care, and to be made comfortable. You have the right to respect for your cultural, psychosocial, spiritual, and personal values, beliefs and preferences.” I am honored to serve our community with my colleagues. We are dedicated to giving the most competent and respectful care.

I graduated from Grace M. Davis High School in 1972. Soon after, I entered the Samuel Merritt Hospital School of Nursing. As an eighteen-year-old nursing student, I realized my life had transitioned from

Sue Zwahlen

that of a carefree teenager to a caregiver responsible for the lives of my patients.

I still remember my very first patient. He was recovering from a heart attack. I nervously approached his bedside and was surprised to find him looking quite healthy. I prepared for his care by studying every detail of his case. He was my patient and I felt responsible for his well being and life.

For the last thirty years, I have been an emergency room nurse at DMC. Training and experience have prepared my coworkers and me to provide the best possible care to the members of our community.

Nurses are trained to do across the room assessments where we notice a person’s appearance, breathing and circulation. Helping is natural for us. At a recent mall shooting, it was noted that emergency room nurses rendered aid. It is not only what we do; it becomes who we are.

And we are at our very best when we are collaborating with each of our community partners.

Our team includes multiple hospital depa r tment s , educ a t ion , l aw enforcement, business and community partners, and pre-hospital providers. Each person is accountable to the other. It is an all-encompassing process, but ultimately involves providing the

appropriate care, with compassion, to only one patient – the one we are caring for at the moment. P

610 N. 9th St . , Modesto 1 .800.669.6321wardensworks.com

New...or just new to you?With our 50,000 square foot showroom and a selection to match, you're sure to find the perfect gently used furniture for your office at the right price for your budget.

O U T L E T C E N T E Ragain

“I am honored to serve our community with

my colleagues. We are dedicated to giving the

most competent and respectful care.”

1-888-936-PLAN (7526) I www.hpsj.com

HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS...

- Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists

- Easy access to your personal doctor

- Choice of hospitals and pharmacies

- Local and nationwide emergency care

- Free 24/7 advice nurse

- Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties

Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.

FEbRuARy 15

awardS and achievemenTS

Struck Employee Benefits was recognized by Blue Shield as one of the top 2% among medical benefit firms for growth and customer satisfaction in California for 2012. President Aaron Struck, a graduate of Modesto Christian High School and Leadership Modesto, started the company in 2006. Over the course of the past three years, the company has grown by 252%. To learn more about Struck Employee Benefits, go to www.struckbenefits.com or contact (209) 524-2893. P

Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Plans in California received top ratings in the nation for the second straight year. Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Plans in California again have received an overall rating of 5 stars for parts C and D, the highest rating possible from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This is the second year that CMS has awarded such ratings to Medicare plans around the country, and the second year that Kaiser Permanente has the only 5-star rating in California. The new 2013 ratings for the state encompass Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California and Southern California regions. P

Ten Kaiser Permanente hospitals in Northern California were named 2012 “Top Hospitals” by the Leapfrog Group. The Kaiser Permanente hospitals represent more than a quarter of Leapfrog’s list of urban “Top Hospitals.” Of the nearly 1,000 urban hospitals that completed the Leapfrog survey and were considered for the award, only 67 were named “Top Hospitals.” The Leapfrog Group rewards medical centers for their outstanding success in areas such as infection rate reduction, safety practices, mortality rates for common procedures, and measures of efficiency. P

Oak Valley Community Bank, (NASDAQ: OVLY), announced that VP, Commercial Loan Officer, Peter Brown was recognized and received the award for “2012 Most Active SBA 504 Loan Officer” from Success Capital Expansion and Development Corporation. Success Capital strives to provide low down payment, fixed rate financing via the SBA 504 Loan Program for business owners to purchase or build facilities for their businesses. For more information, visit www.ovcb.com. P

Success Capital held their annual luncheon for members and guests at Jacobs Fine Dining in Modesto. The guest speaker for this event was John Gauthier, owner of 28 Little Caesars Pizza restaurants. His inspirational speech on how he worked his way from pizza maker to owner was well received by all in attendance. Awards were given to Peter Brown of Oak Valley Community Bank for Most Active Loan Officer in 2012 and Modesto Commerce Bank for Most Active Lending Partner in 2012. P

Never Boring Design Associates, (NBDA), a full service advertising and marketing agency, has received a gold award from the 4th Annual Pixie Awards for their captivating piece “First Impressions Matter.” The awards honor outstanding creativity in the fastest-growing areas in the world of video and TV production; categories include motion graphics, special effects, and animation. NBDA created “pixel magic” in their commercial entry with well planned and executed motion graphics. “First Impressions Matter” is an NBDA self promotion piece that highlights a taste of the types of advertising solutions they offer. P


aaron STrucK

Allstate Insurance “The O’Connor Insurance Agency” is committed to providing our customers with the right coverage at the best possible price. We not only specialize in auto and home owner’s coverage, we also offer financial services through Allstate Financial. Visit our website at www.allstate.com or come into our office at 2020 Standiford Ave, Suite F3. We are open Monday-Friday, 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. and Saturday 9:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. The O’Connor Insurance Agency is here to protect “Your Wheels, Your Walls, and Your Wealth.” For more information, please call (209) 247-1824. P

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 684 represents Electrical Workers within Stanislaus, Merced, Mariposa, and Tuolumne counties. We are partnered with Nor-Cal NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) to offer the Central Valley’s most progressive electrical industry partnership. The Partnership represents a well-trained, safe and experienced electrical industry serving the Central Valley, and offers a local five year apprenticeship and training program. We are located at 519 12th St. in Modesto, CA 95354; the phone number is (209) 524-5171. Visit us at ibewlu684.org. P

Manaluna Functional Wellness Center’s exclusive facilities, located at 100 Sycamore Avenue, Suite 200, provide you with access to wellness providers, including experts in reiki, holistic massage, chiropractic care, organic skincare, reflexology and functional medicine. Our belief is that balance creates health and support through life’s cycles. Each treatment is custom tailored to suit your unique needs, based on our deep understanding of the body and its systems. Office hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or by appointment. Call us for an appointment at (209) 529-2036. P

Philip Openshaw D.D.S. would like to retract an erroneous statement in our New Member Profile printed in the January issue. In order to clarify it was stated “Philip Openshaw D.D.S. Specializing in General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry” however, Dr. Openshaw is a General Dentist whose practice focuses on Cosmetic and Implant cases. At the office of Philip Openshaw patients can also have laser gum procedures, root canal therapy, TMJ therapy and patients of all ages are welcome. For more information please call our office at (209) 524-4763 or visit our website at www.OpenshawSmiles.com. We welcome any and all questions. Thank you. P

new member profileS

eConomiC development

(209) 523-8365

Keeping Modesto Cool Since 1957

AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • SHEET METAL

AIR DUCT CLEANING • PLANNED SERVICE MAINTENANCE

W W W . N O R Q U I S T A I R . C O M

LIC. 872913


Which plan has the most physicians?

What program is the most affordable?

How do you manage your prescriptions?

Get Your Questions Answered.Call Debbie Sousa at 209.524.6366www.tsminsurance.com

1701 Coffee Road Suite 2 Modesto, CASe Habla Español

license #0288149

DO YOU KNOW YOUR OPTIONS?65 + Health Plans

more choices... better coverage

networkinG & reFerrals

Jan } buSineSS before & afTer hourS

Business Before Hours hosted by:

H&r Block

H & R Block(209) 543-8290 • www.hrblock.com3900 Pelandale Avenue #425, Modesto, CA 95356

H&R Block is one of the world’s largest tax services providers, utilizing more than

120 highly trained tax professionals in the city of Modesto, and having prepared

more than 550 million tax returns worldwide since 1955. H&R Block has 8 locations

to serve the City of Modesto. Visit them at www.hrblock.com or to download their

mobile app, search HR Block.

Kemper CPA Group, LLP(209) 521-1100 • www.kempercpa.com1700 Standiford Ave Suite 200, Modesto, CA 95350

Kemper CPA Group, LLP, a top 100 firm, is the local accounting firm with nationally

recognized professionals who also happen to be your neighbors and friends. They specialize

in audits, accounting, payroll, tax services, bookkeeping, technology and wealth management.

After 50 years of service, the firm still stays true to the vision of Morris Kemper, offering an

in-depth, hands-on approach to clients, as well as exciting career opportunities for employees.

Business After Hours hosted by:

Kemper CPa Group, llP

FEbRuARy 17

STANISLAUS COUNTY

FAIR$4 OFF Fair admission tickets(Valid for corporate purchases only)

JULY 12-21, 2013JULY 12-21, 2013

Celebrate your employees!Celebrate your employees!Purchase Fair tickets for your employees now and let

the summer FUN begin! Group orders of 50 or more Fair admission tickets will receive $4 OFF per ticket.

Your price at only $8/ticket ($12 value). Visit our website at www.stancofair.com for more information.

Purchase Fair tickets for your employees now and let the summer FUN begin! Group orders of 50 or more Fair admission tickets will receive $4 OFF per ticket.

Your price at only $8/ticket ($12 value). Visit our website at www.stancofair.com for more information.

#StanCoFair

new chamber memberS


BATTERIES PLUS BULBS Jerry Stokes

3000 McHenry Avenue, Suite #1

Modesto, CA 95350

(209) 529-0600

(209) 529-0604

[email protected]

www.batteriesplus.com

batteries-Retail & Wholesale

CENCAL MECHANICAL HEATING & AIR Jason Stevens1254 Lone Palm Avenue Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 522-1124(209) [email protected] Conditioning/Heating Equipment & Systems/Sheet Metal

FROST BAKERY & FINE FOODSShelly Koch2014 W. Monte Vista Ave Turlock, CA 95382901 N Carpenter Road Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 523-2240 (209) 523-2240 [email protected] www.frostbakeryandcafe.com Bakers-Retail & Wholesale

KOUPONS.COM Rithy Reth P.O. Box 3501Modesto, CA 95352 822 9th StreetModesto, CA 95354 (209) 606-8873 [email protected] www.koupons.com On-Line Marketing

LUKE SECURITY COMPANY / GUARDNOW FRANCHISE Joe Luke

2401 E. Orangeburg Avenue, Suite G75-216

Modesto, CA 95355

(209) 595-3446

[email protected]

www.guardnow.com

Security Guard & Patrol Service

MANALUNA FUNCTIONAL WELLNESS CENTERJulia bertrand 100 Sycamore, Suite #200 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) [email protected] Center

SCENIC OAKS FUNDING Tony Avilla 1156 Scenic Drive, #200 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 572-2301(209) [email protected] Mortgage Companies

THE O’CONNOR INSURANCE CO - ALLSTATEMichael O’Connor2020 Standiford Avenue, Suite #F3 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 247-1824(209) 580-3114 [email protected] Insurance

UNIVERSAL SERVICE RECYCLING Jason Antypas3200 South El Dorado St. Stockton, CA 95206 (209) [email protected]


announcemenTS

The Modesto “500” Lions Club presents their 12th Annual Crab Feed March 9, 2013, 6:00 p.m., at the Howard Training Center, 1424 Stonum Road, Modesto. The event includes all-you-can-eat fresh crab, salad and pasta for $40.00 per person, take-out also available. The event supports local non profits that benefit special needs children and adults, mentoring programs, service dogs, disaster relief, eye and hearing care and sober grad nights. Lions are committed to providing service to their local communities and the world. For tickets and information, contact Brower Dimond at (209) 521-5568 or [email protected]. P

Kelly Services, a leader in providing quality workforce solutions, has been meeting the employment needs of local businesses and residents since 1963 and is celebrating 50 years of business in Modesto. Skilled in the areas of administrative/office, customer service, light industrial, legal, engineering, IT, etc., employees are available on a temporary, temporary-to-hire or direct-hire basis. For more information on the workforce solutions the Kelly office in Modesto can provide your organization, please call (209) 577-4777 or visit www.kellyservices.com. P

Mike Zagaris, CEO of PMZ Real Estate, released his first digital book to iTunes, How to Succeed in Real Estate…from the people in the trenches who do it every day! The book features Mike’s insights about the “Mental Game of Real Estate” and highlights successful real estate agents’ strategies for success and explores struggles and triumphs. This is a must-read book for anyone in the real estate industry! You can download Mike’s book for free from the iTunes Store. For more information, please call (209) 527-2010. P

John Lewis, the U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th congressional district, will be the keynote speaker addressing “King’s Spirit Today” at the 2013 Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration. The free community event will be held on Saturday, February 9th at 7:00 p.m. at Modesto Junior College in the Mary Stuart Rogers Student Learning Center on West Campus, 2201 Blue Gum Avenue, Modesto. For more information, please contact James Costello, Modesto/Peace Life Center, at [email protected] or Dan Onorato, MJC Faculty Emeritus, at [email protected], or call (209) 526-5436. P


The Number one Business Publication in stanislaus County

For advertising information please call Progress Magazine at 209.526.9136

Help your business make PROGRESS

FEbRuARy 19

people on The move

T h e S t a n i s l a u s E c o n o m i c Development and Workforce Alliance is pleased to announce its recent hire of Steven Ames who will join the Alliance team as Senior Vice President and Director of Economic Development. Ames’ proven background in economics and planning will help ensure the Alliance continues to provide quality professional service in Stanislaus County. Ames comes with over 20 years of experience in project

management and economic development. “Ames’ experience, leadership, and track record of success are exactly what the Alliance needs to complement its aggressive strategy for economic growth for the county,” said CEO William Bassitt, of the Alliance. Ames’ first day is January 21, 2013. P

Gianelli & Associates is pleased to introduce Louis Friedman to their off ice. Lou’s law practice emphasizes the areas of Estate Planning, Finance, Business Organization, Succession Planning, and Asset Protection. Lou served at the E.&J. Gallo Winery for 25 years as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Off icer. He has vast experience advising family owned and closely held companies. Lou is very involved in our community and strongly believes in innovative solutions. For more information, please contact (209) 527-6260. P

There’s a new Nut on the roster – the Modesto Nuts are excited to announce Justin McKissick as the Director of Public Relations for the team. Born in the Bay Area, Justin majored in Public Relations from the University of Brigham Young – Idaho and was part of the 2012 Nuts trainee program. Justin will oversee the Nuts community efforts including the popular elementary school reading program & non-profit ticket fundraisers. If you would like more information on any of the Nuts community programs, Justin can be reached at (209) 572-4487. P

The Yosemite Community College District (YCCD) Board of Trustees elected Trustee Abe Rojas of Turlock as the new YCCD Board Chair through November 2013. Rojas served on the YCCD Board for 17 years, representing YCCD Trustee Area 3. Rojas succeeds outgoing Chair Mike Riley of Modesto. The Board also elected Lynn Martin of Sonora, representing YCCD Trustee Area 1, to serve as Vice Chair. Martin was first elected to the Board in 2010. In other action, Rojas, Riley, Linda Flores and Tom Hallinan were recognized for being reelected to the YCCD Board to serve 4-year terms through 2016. For more information, please call (209) 575-6508. P

STeven ameS

louiS friedman

JuSTin mcKiSSicK


abe roJaS lynn marTin

StAte oF the cityWhen: February 6, 2013

Where: DoubleTree HotelTime: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

on’t miss Mayor Marsh’s second State of the City Address on February 6, 2013. Join business and community leaders and engaged citizens, to hear first hand the Mayor’s vision for Modesto.

For those individuals that may not have the opportunity to join us for lunch, free seating will be provided to observe the Mayor’s presentation. We encourage the community to be involved and support this once a year event. Learn more about how you can support local government and become involved in your community and the City of Modesto.

Individual tickets are on sale now. For sponsorship and ticket information, please call Elizabeth Facanha at (209) 577-5757 or [email protected]. P


preSidenT’S clubcircle of influence

PLATINUM LEVELKaiser permanentewalmartwalmart neighborhood market

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 containerSunpower

GOLD LEVEL5.11 Tactical Seriescoca-cola bottling company, inc.costco wholesalecrystal creamerydoubleTree hotelevergreen nursing & rehabilitation care centerJc penney companymemorial medical centerThe modesto beemodesto irrigation districtmodesto nuts professional baseballracor, division of parker hannifin corporationSave mart Supermarkets Seneca foods, llcSysco food Services of central californiaTaco bell

SILVER LEVELaaaaT&Tacme construction company, inc.ambeck mortgage associatesamerican chevroletamerican medical responsearamark uniform Servicesatherton & associates, llpbJ’s restaurant & brewhousebrandman university, chapman university Systemcalifornia State university, Stanislauscentral valley ag grinding/central valley ag Transportcentral valley automotivecentral valley chrysler, Jeep, dodgecentral valley nissan central valley volkswagen hyundai central valley medical groupcentral valley Specialty hospitalchildren’s hospital central californiachukchansi gold resort & casinoclark pest controlcoiT Services inc.collins electrical comcastconstruction management corporationcourtyard by marriottcovanta Stanislaus, inc.


BEFORE AFTER

curtis legal groupdamrell, nelson, Schrimp, pallios, pacher & Silvadel monte foodsdelta Sierra beveragedirectline Technologies, inc.The eberhardt School of businessenglish 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 collegemed3000mercer foodsmocse credit unionmodesto commerce bankmodesto Toyotamraz, amerine & associatesmv Transportation, inc.nestle uSaoak valley community banko’brien’s marketolam Spices & vegetables, inc.pacific gas & electric companypanelized Structures, inc.pepsi bottling grouppost foods, llcprime Shine car washrabobankraley’sraymond James & associates, inc.rizo-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 coachwaysSunopta aseptic, inc.Sutter gould medical foundationTurlock irrigation districtuS bank valley first credit unionvalley lexus-bmww.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.


...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

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 Car Wash is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

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

Larry KingVaLLey Hearing aid & OpticaL

Valley Hearing Aid & Optical was founded in 2000 as Oakdale Hearing Aid Company in Oakdale. The business relocated to Modesto in the summer of 2011 and at that time changed the name to Valley Hearing Aid & Optical to more fully represent the services provided and the geographical locations of its offices. In 2005, the company added a Merced location and last year started offering clinic hours at Samaritan Village in Hughson. Valley Hearing Aid & Optical provides hearing testing (to

determine the need for amplification), sales and service of hearing aids, auditory retraining classes and prescription eyewear.

tell me about your career and professional life. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now?I had worked in the durable medical equipment industry for nearly 15 years when I learned to dispense hearing aids. I became licensed in 1995 and after working in the industry for five more years I decided to venture out on my own.

My wife Donna had primarily worked in accounting and business management before she joined the practice for a time when we were still located in Oakdale. She studied to become a hearing aid dispenser, and recently completed the International Hearing Societies’ American Conference of Audioprosthology. She eventually returned to the practice on a full-time basis when we relocated to Modesto.

are you originally from this area and if so where were you born? if not, where are you from? I’m originally from Santa Cruz. I was working for a medical equipment company when I transferred to Modesto in 1989.

When you were younger what goals did you set for yourself and why?I had always wanted to own my own business and helping people hear better is very rewarding.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud?I’m proud that we’ve been able to grow from a one office, one-person operation to having three locations, two hearing aid dispensers and a receptionist.

What is the single biggest reason that you have achieved the level of success you have?I think our success is due to never giving up. I believe that there are always untapped opportunities out there; sometimes they just have to be recognized and cultivated.

What do you like about your job?In this business, there is one-on-one interaction with the clients that you don’t get in other businesses. My wife Donna and I are both very well suited to the hearing aid business as we truly enjoy helping people. I love that this business provides me the opportunity to meet all kinds of people, and hear the stories of their lives while I’m helping them.

do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?In addition to running our own business, Donna and I give back to our community through our membership in the Kiwanis Club of Riverbank. I am a member of the Local Redevelopment Authority Advisory Committee for the City of Riverbank, and Donna serves on the Budget Advisory Committee for the City of Riverbank. We both believe in the importance of community service, and are committed to giving back to the community in which we work and live.

What are your plans for the future?So far, we’ve experienced many years of steady—and sustainable—growth. In the future, we plan to keep this up! We want to keep growing.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals?My own philosophy for business is to do something you like and do it well.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community? Why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity?Donna and I originally came here to Modesto from the coast because it was a place we could afford to buy a house. Modesto was appealing because it was a place where we could pursue our dreams. Not only could we afford to own our own home, coming here to Modesto allowed us the opportunity to establish our own business.

I think of Modesto as a land of opportunity because it’s an affordable place with good, nice people where you can raise a family and have the freedom to prosper. We found the American Dream here, and moving to Modesto has been a big part of our success.

larry King

FEbRuARy 23

WORK IN


Healthcare Day began with reflections from the class focusing on healthcare plans/coverage. The class was asked to go online, compare their current insurance plan & rates with other insurance companies and get a quote. John Felton facilitated a discussion on

the group’s findings. The consensus was access to services and cost are very important factors when it comes to choosing a plan.

This reflection activity was a perfect segue into the panel discussion on the future of healthcare which set the tone for the day. Mike King, CCO of Doctor’s Medical Center and Daryn Kumar, CEO of Memorial Medical Center, expressed their opinions on how the healthcare reform bill will potentially impact their organizations, as well as the community. The consensus of the class aligned with the presenters’ opinions on access and cost. A very interesting discussion ensued on the topic of access and

whether or not Americans have very high expectations on quality of service and that if the United States goes to a more socialized healthcare system, we may have to change our views. Both presenters agreed one positive to the healthcare reform is a focus on a more collaborative approach where providers (primary care physicians, hospitals, convalescent/rehabilitation facilities, etc.) work together to deliver high quality comprehensive care.

The rest of the day was spent educating the class on the valuable resources our community has to offer around healthcare. Thomas C. Truax presented on Health Bridge, an organization that supports transitional care services once the patient is released from the hospital. We visited the Care More Facility and toured Memorial Medical Center - the robotic program and the helicopter were the highlights of the day. During our stay at Memorial, presenters with the Stanislaus Health Foundation and Doctors Behavioral Health Center discussed the Affordable Care Act and Mental Health Issues. The day ended at Community Hospice, where the class received a tour of the facility from the CEO Harold A. Peterson III. P

healThcare dayJudy Leitz, Communications Coordinator, Stanislaus County Office of Education

Course Name Course Date/Time Course Description Cost

engage & grow Business: event Marketing – iMc consulting & training

Sexual harassment Prevention training for Supervisors- curtis Legal group

Motivating your workforce to higher Productivity - the corporate college

Performance Appraisals do’s and don’ts – SinglePoint outsourcing, inc.

To register for all SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. classes call (559) 625-4800

Adult, child & infant cPr and First Aid training – the Medics Plus

what you can do today to Make a Better tomorrow for your Business- never Boring design Associates

getting Started with e-mail Marketing - iMc consulting & training

dynamic communications – the corporate college

February 7, 2013 9:00am - 11:00am

February 12, 2013 9:00am - 11:00am

February 22, 2013 8:30am - 10:00am

February 26, 2013 10:00am - 12:00pm

March 2, 2013 8:00am - 3:00pm

March 7, 2013 8:00am - 9:30am

March 19, 2013 9:00am - 11:00am

March 22, 2013 8:30am - 10:00am

Events are an integral part of how you market your small business or organization. From sales meetings to fundraisers to performing arts and online training seminars, events help you attract new customers and members. Learn how to: • Professionally promote your event • Reduce repetitive tasks • Monitor and course-correct

Government Code Section 12950.1 (AB1825) requires all California employers of 50 or more to provide sexual harassment prevention training to all supervisors and managers.

Specifically, the seminar will help you: • Know which attitudes drive your life, actions and decisions • Understand the driving forces in others’ lives • Understand others’ viewpoints and be able to dialogue convincingly by seeing the world through their eyes • Become a more productive team player

Done poorly, even with good intentions, performance appraisals can lead to aggravation, anger, and conflict instead of providing focus and motivation for improved performance and career development. Learn the top mistakes managers make in the appraisal process and how to avoid them, making the process in your organization a positive one.

Learn how to administer CPR and First Aid for adults, children, and infants. You’ll learn how to handle emergency situations, take basic precautions to prevent disease transmission, care for injuries or sudden illness until advanced medical help arrives, help someone in breathing and cardiac emergencies, administer chest compressions and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This class also teaches you to care for life-threatening bleeding, sudden illness, shock and injury.

It doesn’t take a big budget to make a big difference for your business. Marketing experts from Never Boring Design will speak on how to ensure that you’re making the most of your business’ low hanging fruit and your existing customers. Find out some easy, cost-effective ways you can solidify your customer base and start to expand your market share today.

Email Marketing: • Choose from over 450 email templates designed for every type of industry or theme • Promote and link to your social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn from your emails • Make it easy for customers to share your email message through social media with our Social Share toolbar • Check out your email’s success including: Open rates, click-throughs, bounces, and more • Grow your subscriber list right from your Facebook page, website, or mobile phone

This workshop focuses communication behavior: • Knowing your own behavioral style • Identifying the behavioral style of others • Blending your sales type to improve communication

Members $10.00 Non-Members $20.00 Members $30.00 Non-Members $40.00

Members $20.00 Non-Members $30.00






*All Chamber University courses are provided at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce; call the Chamber to register: (209) 577-5757.


medamerica billing Services has deep modesto

roots. The company, which got its start in 1975

as a small billing office serving downey park

radiology, has seen a spate of changes—both in

name and in ownership—over the years, but its

ties to the modesto area have never loosened.

Today, medamerica billing Services stands as one

of the area’s major local

employers with a total

of 787 employees—most

of which are located at

the company’s 100,000+

square foot main facility

on cummins drive—

who handle billing for

emergency room physicians

across eight states. despite

its size, medamerica

billing is still one of those

companies that often fly

under the radar of the

local community, said ceo

Jimmie proffitt. “Since we don’t do business with

a lot of people in town, we end up being kind of

a back office operation. you wouldn’t notice us

when you’re driving around.”

as the medical industry has evolved over the

last 38 years, medamerica billing Services has

been challenged to stay ahead of the curve.

one challenge that the company has faced

is the pressure to outsource. as more and

more medical companies cut costs by moving

their billing services overseas, proffitt says the

company has chosen to resist. “we wanted to

continue to foster hiring, not only in the uS but

in our community.”

“we’re affording a lot of local

folks the opportunity to build a

career and learn a skill. i’m really

proud of that.” proffitt said that

the company overcame the

cost challenge by instituting

technology changes that would

offer medamerica billing

Services’ clients the efficiency

and price reduction they were

looking for, without sacrificing

its american workforce.

The company’s success at

tackling its myriad challenges

is evident in its bottom line. The company has

experienced growth of nearly 20% over the last

two years and expects continued success in the

future, even as the medical industry sees some

major shifts. as those shifts come into effect,

medamerica billing Services will continue to work

to deliver a superior product for its physician

clients locally and across the country. P

SERvICE whEN yOu NEEd IT(Courtesy of Never Boring design Associates)

When business is booming, advertising is the last thing on your mind. But when times get tough, an aggressive ad campaign becomes the last thing you want to spend money on. By maintaining an advertising presence through thick and thin, you can keep your business rolling, stay at the top of your customers’ minds and keep slowdowns to a minimum. Never Boring Design is an industry expert at creating unique, effective and affordable advertising. Find out how we can keep your business moving forward, visit us today at neverboring.com

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 2012 directory at 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

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

Modesto-based MedAmerica Billing Services Helps Keep the County’s Emergency Rooms Running

“one challenge that the

company has faced is the

pressure to outsource.

as more and more medical

companies cut costs

by moving their billing

services overseas, proffitt

says the company has

chosen to resist. ”

FEbRuARy 25

chamber calendar

MARCH 2013 FEBRuARy 2013

14 busIness beFore hours:

Heald College Location: 5260 Pirrone Court Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

20 stanIslaus green

team meetIng

Location: Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th Street Plaza Time: 10:00 am - 11:00am

21 busIness aFter hours: Dale Commons Assisted Living Location: 3900 Dale Road Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

6 state oF the cIty

luncheon

Location: DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th Street Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

14 busIness beFore hours:

Inperspective Photography Location: 110 Santa Barbara Avenue Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

20 stanIslaus green

team meetIng

Location: Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th Street Plaza Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

21 busIness aFter hours: Galletto Ristorante Location: 1101 J Street Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm


The new affordable care act will affect all

businesses and individuals in the coming

years and it is important we understand it.

To this end, the chamber will hold seminars

and feature special articles in Progress

Magazine throughout the year. however,

we will need help from experts, be it from

the medical point of view or from that

of insurance and the changes employers

should plan for. please submit your articles or seminar topics to

me and i will contact you. Thank you! P

{ minnie’s news Bites }

minnie dodge

Your comfortis our business.

523-4578dehartinc.com

Lic. # 724566


facebook.com/dmcmodesto

To find out if you are a candidate for a da Vinci® procedure, visit www.dmc-modesto.net/davinci.html

or call 866-715-6902 for a physician referral.

New aNd improved Technology for general surgery

virtually scarless, single-site incision

When it comes to minimally invasive surgery, the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System sets the standard. We were the first hospital in the area to perform surgeries using the da Vinci® robot, and our specially trained surgical team has performed more than 800 procedures with it since August, 2007. Now we’re bringing our patients the newest da Vinci® Si Surgical System, which means even less pain and virtually no scarring. It’s just one more example of the cutting-edge technologies that are used at Doctors Medical Center every day. While the da Vinci® robot sets the standard for technology, DMC doctors set the bar for excellent patient care.

The newest da Vinci® Si surgery technology offers: • Minimallyinvasivegynecological, urological, and general surgery procedures • Significantlylesspain• Virtuallynoscarring• Lowerriskofinfection• Shorterhospitalstay• Minimalbloodloss• Fasterrecovery

FirST with the da Vinci® robotic technology. SeCoNd to none in patient care.

FEbRuARy 27

We’re proud to be ranked “Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in California.” From our unique integrated care teams and innovative electronic medical records system to convenient Web-based tools and mobile apps, we’re dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care possible. Because as rewarding as it is to get a thumbs-up from you, it’s even more rewarding when we can give your health a thumbs-up. For other ways we’re helping our members thrive, visit kp.org/thrive

RANKED “highEst iN mEmbER sAtisfActioN”by J.D. PowERAND AssociAtEs.*

*Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in the California region in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2012 U.S. Member Health Plan Study.SM Study based on 32,868 total member responses measuring eight plans in the California region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2011–January 2012. Your experience may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

Progress_PortOCall_January_8.75x11.25.indd 1 12/13/12 11:41 AM

February Progress 2013

Documents

Transcript of February Progress 2013