April 2017 Vol. 38 Issue 4 modchamber.org
AG BUSINESSES WORK TOGETHER
Career Technical Education
Ag Safe
Leadership Modesto
NOW’S THE TIME.
REDEFINE Y O U R S E L F.
To me, there was no better feeling than being able to look at my grandson in the eyes and tell him ‘yes’ when he asked if I could go walking with him.
SHARON, SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS PATIENT
More than 36% of the adult population in the United States is obese; many have tried various diets and tactics to lose weight but have ended back where they started. With nearly 95% of all diets proving unsuccessful, you shouldn’t feel alone - now is not the time to give up hope. When you’ve tried every weight loss tool in your kit, but the weight won’t budge, it’s time to try a new tool that may make the difference. Take our surgical weight loss assessment at ValleySurgicalWeightLoss.com to find out if you’re a candidate, or call (877) 946-3604.
Now’s the time. Redefine yourself.
Bariatric body mass criteria: this surgery is designed for those with a BMI equal to or greater than 40 or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.
CONTENTS APRIL 2017 Mission Statement
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.
Executive Committee Chairman Eric Tobias, F&M Bank
Chairman-Elect Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.
Past Chairman David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum,CPA Directors Elliot Begoun, The Intertwine Group Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Todd Falduti,Vintage Faire Mall Ryan Fitzpatrick,Valley BMW/Lexus David Gingerich, TD Gingerich Insurance Solutions, Inc. Paul Holshouser, Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto Michael Howell, Blom & Associates Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Naomi Layland, Huff Construction Co, Inc. Craig Lewis, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Virginia Madueño, Imagen, LLC DeSha McLeod, Community Hospice Inc. Tom Nielsen, Individual Member Peggy O’Donnell, Mid-Valley Promotion Dillon Olvera, Beard Land & Investment Co. Kay Peck, HealthSouth Rehabilitation of Modesto Thomas Reeves, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Kole Siefken, DoubleTree Hotel Lucy Virgen, Bank of the West Pete Zahos, Sysco Central California, Inc. Advisors Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College David Boring, Never Boring Kristopher Helton, Leadership Modesto Jim Holgersson, City of Modesto David White, Opportunity Stanislaus Melissa Williams, Modesto Irrigation District Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce CRussell@ModChamber.org Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org Graphic Design: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • www.neverboring.com Printer: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 • mike@theparksgroup.com Distribution: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 Advertising Sales: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • progress@neverboring.com © Copyright 2017 Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing. 209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org
PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org Progress@ModChamber.org
LEADERSHIP
4
Message from the CEO
EDITORIAL
5
Agsafe Improving the quality of life of farmworkers
COVER STORY
6
Ag Business Work Together
GUEST COLUMN
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Career Technical Education and Modesto's Agriculture Community Working hand and hand
EDUCATION
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Wanted-Child Care
NETWORKING & REFERRALS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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Leadership Modesto: Valley of Healthcare
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Modesto Chamber of Commerce.
Join us for the 22nd ANNUAL AG AWARE LUNCHEON April 7, 2017
Join 700 of Modesto’s prominent agricultural and community leaders to raise funds for Modesto’s Future Farmers of America programs. A longstanding event guaranteed to
bring together some of the most influential companies in the agriculture industry to discuss
economic trends —both locally and globally—that affect the San Joaquin Valley. Proceeds from the Ag Aware Luncheon benefit Modesto area FFA chapters who will be the next generation of leaders in the area’s most prominent industry.
Location:
MJC ACE AG PAVILION, 2201 BLUE GUM AVE.
Time:
11:30 A.M. - 1 P.M.
Tickets:
$25
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS PLEASE CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT 209.577.5757 OR VISIT THE WEBSITE: WWW.MODCHAMBER.ORG
PUBLI C A DVO CACY
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO By Cecil Russell, Chamber President and CEO
Many of our members do not realize how much the Chamber advocates for businesses by attending and serving on various committees. Aside from the Chamber’s own committees and meetings, we have been active in continuing to collaborate and strengthen coalitions by engaging in the following activities and community meetings in the last month: CECIL RUSSELL CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO
• Warmerdam CPA Group 25-Year Plaque Presentation • Building & Construction Trades Council of Stanislaus, Merced, Tuolumne and Mariposa Counties 25-Year Plaque Presentation • Ribbon Cutting–Valley Rehabilitation Center of Modesto • Central Valley Hispanic Chamber Board Installation Dinner • Ceres Chamber of Commerce Annual Installation Dinner • Stanislaus County Chamber Executives Meeting • Private Meeting with new Assembly Member Heath Flora • Private Meeting with Assembly Member Adam Gray • Modesto Gospel Mission Annual Heart of the Donor • Second Harvest Food Bank Empty Bowl Benefit (Sysco) • Destination Modesto Task Force Meetings • SPIE Board Meetings • AB 1234 Ethics Training • Modesto City Schools Meeting • Presentation to Leadership Modesto Class regarding Modesto Chamber • Opportunity Stanislaus Institute Open House • Destination Graduation Advisory Meeting • Stanislaus Green Team • Stanislaus County Economic Development Action Meeting • Almond Blossom Festival • Catalyst–City Ministry Network • City Council meetings • Stanislaus Board of Supervisors meetings • StanCOG meetings
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THIS MONTH WE HAVE TWO EVENTS:
Ag Aware is Apr. 7 at 11:30 a.m., at the MJC ACE Ag Pavilion again this year. This event raises money for local high school FFA scholarships. Our speaker this year is DeeDee D'Adamo from the State Water Resources Control Board. Sponsorships, tables, and tickets are still available. After a two-year hiatus, we are hosting the State of the Region again on Apr. 19 at 11:30 a.m. This year it will be held at the Gallo Center for the Arts and it is a “Congressional Update” with Congressman Jeff Denham as the speaker. There will be several food stations for lunch, similar to the format of the Annual Gala, and then the event will move into the Foster Family Theater where Congressman Denham will give a brief speech and then answer questions. For VIP sponsors, he will have a private meet-and-greet after the event. We already have several sponsors such as: Sutter Memorial Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, and Comcast. We are still looking for more sponsors and ticket sales, and you can contact our office for both events today! NEW ONLINE MARKETING TOOLS:
Finally, many of our members are still trying to maximize their online member profiles, calendaring events, publishing hot deals, and posting jobs using our mobile app, “Members Plus.” We offer two group trainings every month (see the calendar on page 14), or you can contact John Villines at our office to schedule a private training session. Please contact the office today for information about the events or group trainings: 209.577.5757 or visit our website: www.modchamber.org John Villines: JVillines@modchamber.org P
ED ITORIAL
AGSAFE IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF FARMWORKERS By Amy Wolfe, MPPA, CFRE, President and CEO, AgSafe
AMY WOLFE MPPA, CFRE PRESIDENT & CEO AGSAFE
Agriculture has been at the core of Modesto’s economic vitality for decades. The men and women working in our fields, vineyards, orchards, packing houses, and processing and food manufacturing facilities work tirelessly in an exceptionally dangerous industry. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, agriculture is the secondmost dangerous industry after mining based on annual workplace fatalities.
Those risks are exacerbated when considering who is actually doing the work. Nearly 85 percent of California’s farmworkers come from Mexico and Central America. The California Department of Education found that 87 percent of the farmworker population spoke minimal English and the median educational level is less than seven years. Ultimately, to ensure the overall success of Modesto’s agricultural community, efforts must be made to keep this workforce safe from hazards that exist. To be effective, education must be provided that addresses practical business needs of owners and the cultural, language and literacy barriers of workers. For 26 years, that’s exactly what AgSafe has done. The mission of AgSafe is to advance the food and farming industries’ commitment to a safe, sustainable workforce and food supply by providing practical education and resources. Since 1991, we have trained over 65,000 employers, supervisors, and farmworkers in issues impacting worker safety, health, human resources, and food safety. Our success stems from this practical philosophy ensuring that safe, compliant practices become an integral component of a company's
culture. It is due to our recognition and understanding that changing culture and operations means changing behavior for owners, supervisors and workers alike. Our team is made up of children of farmworkers as well as experienced practitioners in safety, human resources and food safety. This unique combination means we have walked in the shoes of both owners and workers and as such are able to create impactful training and resources. Since relocating to Modesto from Fresno in 2009, our approach to supporting this important industry has gained significant momentum. From 2010 to 2016 we served 590 percent more owners, supervisors and farm workers. Our staff has grown almost 700 percent and has included the development of our preeminent education team. We have also expanded our content depth and breadth five-fold in response to industry need, most recently by adding a food safety portfolio of services with dedicated education staff. In 2017, we will be renovating a 10,500-square foot office complex just outside of downtown Modesto (at G and La Loma Streets), which will allow for continued growth. It is also an opportunity for us to give back as well as help revitalize an area of Modesto in need. We look forward to making our state-of-the-art training facility available to the nonprofit and business community, just as others did for us when we first relocated. We have spent a quarter-century improving the quality of life of farmworkers across California. Continuing to build upon our momentum, we have begun to offer our services to agricultural regions beyond California’s borders. Beginning in 2017, we have launched our first office in Louisville, Kentucky where we will provide tools, resources, and trainings to agricultural operations on the east coast. Modesto has been our home for the past eight years and while here, we have flourished, having even broader impact and look forward to continuing our success for decades to come. P
APRIL 2017
5
{COVER STORY }
AG BUSINESSES WORK TOGETHER By Jacqui D. Sinarle
C
alifornia’s agriculture industry runs on teamwork. And, thanks to the healthy relationships between area ag-related businesses and individuals, Central Valley agriculture produces a tremendous volume of quality food that’s distributed throughout the nation and the world. In the Stanislaus region, farmers work with a diverse assortment of agrelated businesses and individuals who share information and practices; provide equipment and technology; and process and preserve a variety of local harvests. “In order for us to be successful, we need to have great relationships,” confirmed Brian Fiscalini, CEO of Fiscalini Farms and Cheese. “Farmers are genuinely good people with strong values about family, hard work, and high quality. We look out for each other and always lend a helping hand when needed.” Since beginning in 1914 with a dairy farm of twelve cows on 120 acres, the Fiscalini family business has grown to encompass 1,500 cows and 500 acres. In addition to the dairy farm, the family grows crops, makes nationally distributed award-winning cheeses, and has a renewable energy product that produces electricity from farm waste. “It takes a team effort to be successful,” Fiscalini said. “We manage the inputs by demanding high quality so that our outputs, milk and cheese, will be of the highest quality for our customers.” It’s also beneficial to cultivate strong ag-related business relationships. “For many years we have been buying high quality feed from Associated Feed in Turlock, Foster Farms in Livingston, Penny Newman in Stockton, and Gen Ace Hay in Modesto,” Fiscalini noted. “John Regusci of Modesto does custom farming for us and has been working with our family for three generations, and Modesto’s Tom Genasci has done our custom forage harvesting for the last 15 years.” Fiscalini Farms maintains excellent cow health and high quality milk production by working with a nutritionist who consults with dairies in the region and with Turlock veterinarian Paul Fernandes of Zoetis Animal Health. Good working relationships with fellow farmers are also essential, Fiscalini said. “While our family has been dairy farming for over 100 years, we continue to learn from other farmers and experts in our industry,” Fiscalini noted. “We work with other dairy farmers in our area by sharing ideas about our management practices, and we also collaborate on purchasing goods and services together to receive competitive pricing for higher volumes.” “Because we have long lasting relationships with many of the businesses in our community, we have built a level of trust that is impressive,”
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
{COVER STORY } Fiscalini concluded. “We understand each other’s goals and strive to outperform our expectations.”
When area farmers harvest their tomato crops, many enlist the teamwork of Stanislaus Food Products for packing and canning.
As California’s Central Valley and North Coast premier John Deere dealership, Belkorp Ag provides an important element of teamwork in the form of ag equipment and service to area farmers.
“Our company crafts tomato products, mostly for small mom and pop pizza and Italian restaurants throughout North America,” explained Michael L. Mendoza, Vice President of Distribution and Operations Support.
“We are a full service agricultural equipment sales and support business and we support all kinds of customers, from homeowners to large scale agricultural growers,” said Peter Young, Vice President of Sales. “From lawn mowers to cotton pickers, our experienced team works hard every day to keep farmers and their equipment productive and on the job. Our commitment to quality customer support is backed by our investment in our people and our facilities.” Belkorp Ag serves the region’s farmers from eight locations and offers a complete line of John Deere agricultural, golf, and turf equipment. Formed in 2011 to acquire the Deere dealerships located in Modesto and Patterson, Belkorp Ag is a member of the Belkorp Group of Companies, a second generation family-owned business whose origins date back to the 1940s. “Our driving force is customer support excellence,” Young reflected. “We offer 24/7 care because we recognize that our customers’ success requires us to be ready whenever and wherever they need us, and we are only successful if they are successful. We are committed to innovation, customer satisfaction and team talent so that we can be our customers’ go-to dealer partner.”
Stanislaus Food Products is a family owned business, owned principally by the Cortopassi family from Stockton. In operation for 75 years, the company has focused on canning tomatoes for the past several decades. “We work with several vendors in our community who supply us with inputs and services to our company, and we’ve done business with many of them for decades,” said Mendoza. “We also contract with several farmers throughout the Central Valley who grow tomatoes for us.” Stanislaus Food Products is also a valuable employer in the community. Mendoza noted, “We employ several hundred employees, both year round and seasonal, who have worked for us for over 20 years.” P For more information about the businesses mentioned in this article, visit: www.fiscalinicheese.com www.belkorpag.com www.stanislaus.com
“Farmers are genuinely good people with strong values about family, hard work, and high quality. We look out for each other and always lend a helping hand when needed.”
APRIL 2017
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GUEST COLUMN C A R E E R TE CH N ICAL E DUC AT ION AND MODEST O 'S A GRIC ULT U R E COMMUNIT Y W O RKING HA ND IN HAND By Jeff Albritton, Senior Director, Alternative and Vocational Education Modesto City Schools Modesto’s agriculture community and Modesto City Schools are linked in a variety of ways. Our Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs have always been greatly supported by donations ranging from chickens for BBQ fundraisers to raw material donations for a wide variety of student projects. The agriculture community serves on advisory panels that advise our teachers in the latest trends in agriculture that translate to updated curriculum in the classroom. Work Based Learning is a term used by Modesto City Schools for a new program of having students continue training in an unpaid internship during their senior year in high school with local agricultural based businesses. These students have attained a level of expertise after completing a sequence of courses in an agricultural pathway during their high school experience that qualifies them for placement in their chosen career field. Using Work Experience Coordinator Rob Steves, along with the pathway teacher Kyle Beeman to supervise this experience, many local businesses have seen the opportunity to bring these interns in to their shop as a win-win for both the business and the school system. At Gregori High School, several industry partners offer students the ability to intern at their companies. They currently have four students working at Flory Industries in Salida, CA. Students work in their service department and welding shop. Also in Salida, students continue their education in Work Based Learning opportunities at Beeler Industries; a smaller company, Beeler has placed one student in their welding shop and one in their engineering department. While not an Ag business, United Sign Systems has a Gregori student working in their welding shop under this program.
This program started last year, and two students who graduated are now employed at Flory. The third is interning again this year and plans to stay on after graduation. Gregori High School plans to continue to add other local businesses to the list of possible internships. It is a great opportunity for the students to get real world experience and some will be given the opportunity to transition into full time employment after graduation. It has motivated all of the students in the high school program to work at a higher level in class because they can see that the skill that they are learning can get them a job that can lead to a career. For the business partners, they not only get the opportunity to train and pre-qualify young
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
eager employees but many have reported that they have seen an increase in their employees’ morale as they have taken great pride in working with and training the student interns.
Beyer High School has worked with several business partners in order to improve student learning within the Agriculture Program. The Agriculture Science Pathway has been sponsored and supported by OSH Hardware for several years. Stanislaus Farm Supply has donated the seed for crops planted at the school farm and many other contributions such as animal nutrition information for livestock. MHK Construction, INC. has donated wood/roofing materials for the goat pens and also helped to build the new goat barn this year. Beyer’s Plant Science Pathway has partnered with Morris Wholesale Nursery to plan and install the drought tolerant garden in the front of the school. In addition, Morris Wholesale and Morris Retail have helped with plant use for the gardens at the Stanislaus County Fair. Modesto City Schools considers itself very lucky to be involved with the agriculture community that helps spread the passion for all things agriculture. Many of our students come from the city and have never had the chance to work with animals, machinery, or plants. Through a wide variety of partnerships, our students learn about the industry that surrounds our community and helps to prepare the future workforce for these types of careers. P
EDUCATION WANTED-CHILD CARE By Tony Jordan, Executive Director, Child & Family Services, Stanislaus County Off ice of Education Gone are the days when a young child staying home with his/her mother is the rule rather than the exception. Today, living in America requires both parents to work in order to make ends meet. The California Budget Project estimates that in Stanislaus County, a two-parent, two-child family with both parents in the work force must have an annual income of $70,925 to afford a modest living. For a single, working parent with two children, that number is $62,842. A modest living includes basic things like housing and utilities, child care, transportation, food, health care, taxes, and minor miscellaneous expenses. For working families in Stanislaus County, affordable and quality child care is a necessity – and an expensive one at that. The Regional Market Rate in Stanislaus County for a preschooler (aged 2-5 years) in a full-day child care center is $9,948 a year and $14,040 for infants and toddlers (ages 0-2). For school-aged children, the annual cost is $4,944 for part-time care. When one thinks of child care, the immediate thought is more practical in nature; when parents are working, they need someone to care for their children. However, it is so much more than that, particularly for 0-5 year olds. For these young children, it is their opportunity to gain a foundation that better prepares them for not only school, but also work and life. It is the place where children learn pre-academic skills like demonstrating an increased ability to observe, anticipate, and reason about cause and effect. It is where social-emotional skills, the key to long term academic success, are developed and nurtured. Skills like: developing an understanding of people’s behaviors, feelings, thoughts, and individual characteristics; having the ability to work cooperatively with familiar adults over sustained periods to plan and carry out activities or solve problems; and, being able to organize or participate in cooperative play activities with several peers, particularly friends; are critical to a child’s school readiness. Child care is delivered in a variety of ways, with a variety of names. It could be delivered by a neighbor down the street in her licensed family child care home or in a licensed child care center operated by a for-profit or nonprofit corporation/agency. It could be called preschool, early education, or a number of program names like Head Start, State Preschool, General Child Care, and Alternative Payment. No matter what it is called or how it is delivered, it is the opportunity where the playing field can be leveled so that children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds enter kindergarten ready to learn. It is also supports the opportunity for parents to get to work. To support the child care needs of Stanislaus County families, the Stanislaus County Office of Education has an entire Division, Child & Family Services, devoted to providing information about what to look for when choosing child care and what child care options are available, including low or no-cost opportunities. For many families, the low or no-cost option is the difference between working and getting by, or staying home and going on welfare. The program pays off in huge, non-monetary dividends according to one local parent: “If I didn’t have
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
child care, I wouldn’t be able to get to work. And if it weren’t for the program helping me, I wouldn’t be able to afford to pay my family child care home provider to care for my 5-year old son because the cost is so high.” Want to support your current and future work force in Stanislaus County? Send your employees to www.findchildcarestanislaus.org, Stanislaus County’s one-stop shop for all things child care. For more information, or to obtain brochures, call (209) 238-1800 or send an email to ajordan@stancoe.org. P
HELPING VALLEY BUSINESS GROW
Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches Oak Valley’s Mike Garcia, Commercial Loan Officer (left) 209.343.7607 and Dianna Bettencourt, Turlock Branch Manager (right) 209.633.2867, pictured with Dust Bowl Brewing Company owners Brett & Camy Honoré and Brett & Karen Tate.
866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com Oakdale • Sonora • Modesto • Turlock • Patterson Escalon • Ripon • Stockton • Manteca • Tracy
“For this expansion, we knew we wanted to work with Central Valley partners who share our desire to build up our local region. Oak Valley was the perfect fit. They were responsive to our needs and ensured the financing was in place at every stage of our project.” - Dust Bowl Brewing Co., Turlock, CA
ONE HIT. NO ERRORS. HOME SAFE. PRESS RESET Call Burnside Body Shop. We can fix that.
WE WORK WITH ANY AND ALL INSURANCE PROVIDERS YOUR COMMUNITY | OUR COMMUNITY | SINCE 1990 209.521.6570 | BURNSIDEBODYSHOP.COM | LIKE US ON: APRIL 2017
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E C O N OMI C DE VELOP MENT
NEW MEMBER PROFILES
Bill Ames is an Ambassador at the Modesto Chamber. He has recently changed his business designation to MobiCardUSA which is a Membership Discount Club. Business owners can place three offers that can be used daily to reach chamber members for FREE. Change your ads on the fly! You get click to call, GPS to your location, video upload ability, and website or social media links listed FREE. Fundraising groups can get $12.50 per web-app sold and it’s a residual income for your organization! Contact Bill at 209.602.6219 or email at reautopilot@gmail.com for details.
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Stanislaus Community Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life in Stanislaus County, announces the appointment of two community leaders to its Board of Directors. Joining the Stanislaus Community Foundation Board for an initial three year term are:
Britta Foster – Britta Foster is a partner at
Zentiv, a boutique marketing agency based out of Sonoma County. In addition to her professional work, Britta and her husband, Jeff Foster, started the Modesto chapter of Blessings in a Backpack in 2012 which now feeds more than 1800 students each week. Additionally, Britta is an active supporter of many local organizations including BRITTA FOSTER the Stanislaus Family Justice Center and the Gallo Center for the Arts. Britta and Jeff have three children.
Matt Friedrich – Matt Friedrich was raised in
STATE OF THE REGION:
Congressional Update GUEST SPEAKER: CONGRESSMAN JEFF DENHAM Join us as we hear from our elected Congressional Representative, Jeff Denham, about what is going
on in Washington D.C. and beyond. Network, discuss current events, and enjoy small bites with colleagues.
GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1000 I ST. APRIL 19, 2017 11 A.M. TO 12 P.M. Small Bites & Networking
12 P.M. TO 1 P.M. Remarks by Rep. Jeff Denham, Followed by Hosted Q & A
$50 per Ticket Contact the Modesto Chamber for tickets: 209.577.5757 or visit our website: modchamber.org
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
Patterson where his father and brother still farm. He attended Central Catholic High School and then Santa Clara University before earning his law degree at U.C. Hastings College of Law in San Francisco. After working several years for law firms in San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties, Matt and his partners started their own firm. MATT Matt’s practice primarily involved tax planning FRIEDRICH and business transactional work. In 2012, Matt accepted a position as General Counsel, Family Taxation, with E. & J. Gallo Winery where he works today. Matt’s wife, Christina Tourtlotte, is a dentist in Oakdale and they have four children. “The Board is eager to have Britta Foster and Matt Friedrich join us in 2017,” said Craig Lewis, chairman of the Board. “Both bring broad life experience, wisdom, and strong networks to our organization. Britta’s involvement with the arts and children’s organizations and Matt’s understanding of the business and financial services landscape will be invaluable.” Stanislaus Community Foundation oversees more than 100 charitable funds and manages more than $21 million in assets, providing customized philanthropic solutions with flexibility for families and corporations. Since its inception in 2002, Stanislaus Community Foundation has distributed more than $12 million in grants and scholarships to the local community. For more information, call 209.576.1608 or visit www. StanislausCF.org. P
N ETW ORKIN G & REFERALS
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
Please Join Us for Business Before Hours April 13th at 7:30 a.m.
{APRIL} BUSINESS
BEFORE HOU R S
Business Before hosted by: AIR PRODUCTS AND CHEMICALS INC.
98 Industrial Ct. Galt, CA 95632 1.800.654.4567 airproducts.com
MODESTO KIDZ DENTAL
2801 Coffee Rd. Bldg. B Modesto, CA 95354 modestokidzdental.com
SHARIQA INTERNATIONAL, INC.
3401 Dale Rd. #503 Modesto, CA 95356 (347) 279-8047 nestlecafe.com
SLEEP NUMBER BY SELECT COMFORT
3401 Dale Rd. Modesto, CA 95356 209.572.3736 Sleepnumber.com
CARPET ONE MODESTO Since 1950, House of Carpets, Carpet One Modesto has offered an amazing selection of quality flooring paired with expert design knowledge. Locally owned and operated, they have thousands of satisfied customers. They are part of North America’s leading floor covering co-op. Their showroom is known for carrying a broad selection of beautiful carpet, wood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and area rugs including exclusive brands like Bigelow and Lees. They offer a unique customer experience with the exclusive SelectAFloor merchandising system that simplifies the shopping experience and The Beautiful Guarantee™, which guarantees that the customer will be 100 percent happy with their floor. House of Carpets, Carpet One Modesto has been a proud member of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce since 1950. For more information visit www.CarpetOneModesto.com. P
TROPHY WORKS, INC.
3321 McHenry Ave., Ste C Modesto, CA 95350 209.524.6353 trophyworksusa.com
L EA D ER S HIP MODE ST O APPL ICAT I O N S are now available on the Modesto Chamber website ModChamber.org for more information or any questions please contact Natalie Nielsen nnielsen@
800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org
modchamber.org or 209.577.5757
APRIL 2017
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CHAMBER CALENDAR APRIL 2017 5
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
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AG AWARE LUNCHEON
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Modesto Junior College (West Campus) ACE Ag Pavilion 2201 Blue Gum Ave. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. NEW CHAMBER MARKETING TOOLS CLASS Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS Carpet One House of Carpets 1120 McHenry Ave. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
MAY 2017 3
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
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NEW CHAMBER MARKETING TOOLS CLASS Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. 9 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Certified Collision Center 304 Motor City Ct., # B 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
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GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
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NEW CHAMBER MARKETING TOOLS CLASS Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
STATE OF THE REGION: CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE Guest Speaker Congressman Jeff Denham
Gallo Center for the Arts 1000 I St. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
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AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM* Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
COM MUN ITY D EVELOPMEN T
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Presents
Seeds of Success •••———••• •••———••• •••———•••
Pointing You In The Right Direction
April Events
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce an exclusive partnership with AgSafe to launch the Seeds of Success (SOS) Employment Training Series. This series is designed to be a value added service to Modesto Chamber of Commerce members. Each month SOS will offer Chamber members and their employees with essential training topics in the areas of human resources and safety. AgSafe, a Modesto based nonprofit has been providing training and resources for employers in California for over 25 years serving nearly 75,000 individuals. They have been widely known for their commitment to infusing practitioner based training solutions for the industries’ most pressing needs, assisting businesses to remain compliant, safe, and competitive. AgSafe is thrilled to partner with the Modesto Chamber and extend their expertise and knowledge to Modesto Chamber businesses.
Agency Inspection Protocol Webinar April 3 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM | $45 Course Length: 1hour
Regulators such as Cal/OSHA, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Department of Labor routinely conduct surprise inspections. In this session, participants learn how to respond to those visits in a way that minimizes panic, meets the inspectors’ requests and ensures the best possible outcome for the business.
Please join us for our Golf for a
Mission Tournament!
We will have a great day of golf at the beautiful Spring Creek Golf & Country Club in Ripon, California on Apr 24th. Lunch and registration is from 11 a.m12:30 p.m., and tee off is at 12:30. The event will include a 4-person scramble, lunch and awards receptions following the tournament. Registration Fees are $175 for individuals, and $660 for foursomes. Register at www.GolfforAMission.com Check out some of our great prizes! All proceeds from this event will benefit the programs of Modesto Gospel Mission. Sponsorships opportunities are available! Call Natalie to inquire about how you and/or your business can partner with us! 209.225-.2951 P
Termination Essentials April 10 | 9:00AM-10:00AM | $45 | Chamber Office Course Length: 1 hour
Terminating an employee is a difficult decision. This workshop will identify employment laws that a¬ffect termination, help you mitigate issues by properly documenting your decision to terminate and discuss best practices.
Slips, Trips and Falls April 10 | 11:00AM-12:00PM | $45 | Chamber Office Course Length: 1 hour
According to United States Department of Labor slips, trips, and falls cause a majority of the accidents in the general work industry and over 15% of all deaths in the workforce are due to falls. In this course, participants will learn the subtle difference between slips, trips, and falls and will be able to recognize the different ways that these incidents occur. Through the use of real life scenarios, participants will learn to identify and prevent these incidents in the workplace.
Heat Illness Prevention Webinar April 17 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM | $45 Course Length: 1 hour
In this course, participants will discuss the fundamentals of a successful heat illness prevention plan, learn how to implement practices which lead to improved behavior changes, and become acquainted with success stories from within the industry. The course will also discuss signs and symptoms of heat illnesses and ways to prevent them from occurring in the workplace. In addition, a review of recent changes to the heat standard will be covered, including mandatory recovery breaks.
For more information, please contact AgSafe 209.526.4400 or safeinfo@agsafe.org
APRIL 2017
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C O MMUNI TY DEVELO PMENT
ANNOUNCEMENTS Please join Haven in showing your support at our 4th annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event on Apr. 29, downtown Modesto. The event will take place 9 a.m. through 12 p.m. Register at www. havenwalkamile.org. Did you know that Haven served over 2,900 individuals in seven area locations within Stanislaus county last year and that all of our services are free? More than half of last year's funds raised at Walk a Mile came directly from building a fundraising page by individuals such as yourself! This is a fun, family-friendly event, which helps raise awareness of domestic and sexual abuse. Help us reach our goal of $75,000! Create a page, create a team, and create a theme! In previous years, many women have expressed a strong desire to participate in the Walk a Mile event to demonstrate their support for survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking. Therefore, this year, women will be invited to walk in footwear of their choosing (The signature red high-heeled shoes are reserved for those who identify as male). P
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
Meet Jeff Bowman, Ag team lead, CPA and Principal
Ro ot e d i n your succe s
s
27
Age I started counting chickens “real and metaphorical”
11
Age I started driving a tractor
6
Number of CPA experts on our Ag team committed to the success of our clients
Contact us today! 209-527-4220 or gccpas.net
it’s the people behind the numbers APRIL 2017
17
C O M MU NI TY DEVELOP MENT
VALLEY OF HEALTHCARE By Nate Benninger, VP Branch Manager Oak Valley Community Bank
Modesto is known for many things, but most would not think that healthcare is one of them. However, unique to the community is the availability of good healthcare systems. Being a community of about 200,000 residents, one would expect to find one local hospital serving the residents and lacking some of the advanced technology of major cities. They would be wrong. Modesto boasts three major hospitals NATE BENNINGER serving its residents. Procedures that would 15/16 normally have to be sent to a major university or medical center can be performed in the city limits. The Leadership Modesto class of 2017 spent a day discovering the technological advances available in our city. Most of us watched as Kaiser Permanente brought their hospital to life on the campus off of Dale Rd. The new building is just the beginning of the changes to medicine made available with this project. Kaiser has taken the doctor to the patient through the use of the mobile application. A non-urgent case no longer needs to be seen in a hospital but can video conference with their physician, saving time, inconvenience, and allowing for access from anywhere. Dr. Millar of Kaiser Permanente told the story of a traveling family that was able to save their vacation in Tahoe from a trip to a hospital by diagnosing an infected toe via video. Giving more access to healthcare isn’t the only way Kaiser is helping people locally. We, also, were given a tour of their training floor. The floor is configured with three operating rooms. These rooms use interactive robots to simulate common medical procedures, while throwing life-threatening complications at medical staff without real world consequences. Who knows how many lives can be saved by these types of trainings. Not all technology has to do with medicine though; KP has become Energy Star rated by using a monitoring system to ensure they are using their power production as efficiently as possible. This saves countless dollars to be used on improving other services around the hospital. Our second gem in the valley is Memorial Hospital. While it is older than its Kaiser counterpart, it is no less remarkable. Memorial is part of the Sutter Health network and is run as a nonprofit hospital. Current CEO Daryn Kumar, who is a Modesto native, spoke passionately about the hospital’s ability to deliver life-saving resources to his hometown. They boast a level-A trauma unit, a birthing center that allows for 2000 babies to be born annually, and a cardiac department that performs over 300 open heart surgeries a year. One of their greatest resources, though, is their top rated oncology department. This allows patients with advanced cancer diagnoses to receive treatment without the added burden of travel or being away from family. This alone is a huge benefit to community, but Memorial takes it to the next level with their use of stereotactic treatment. We
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
could get really techy here and geek out for a minute, but for the sake of the article, we won’t. Basically, this allows for a radiation beam to be targeted within a millimeter of error and shot continuously into a tumor from a rotating generator. This procedure cuts treatment times, does not require invasive surgery, and allows for it to be done as an out-patient procedure. Doctors Medical Center (DMC) is the oldest sibling in the healthcare family, and one might not expect to see the same advances as its younger peers. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. DMC is constantly reevaluating how they deliver care to the region. As a member of the Tenet Healthcare System, they strive to improve patient care and satisfaction. Warren Kirk, CEO of DMC, speaks very candidly about his goal of becoming a top performer nationally in patient satisfaction. The DMC team is doing this through innovation and technology. Their commitment shows in the introduction of 4 West. This is a floor of the hospital that is looking at the environment of the hospital as part of the care of the patient. It looks more like a 4-star hotel than a hospital floor and incorporates things like Netflix, bathrobes, custom rain showers, and room service into the treatment plan. The idea is that happier patients heal quicker. The discoveries on this floor are then rolled out to others. DMC was also the 13th facility in the world to receive an O-Arm. This allows for precision imaging while performing surgery without the need of moving the patient or wearing a lead vest. Add the O-Arm to the Bi-plane system and you have one of the most technologically advanced operating rooms in the country. While we all hope that we never have to use any of these advanced machines, we should all feel lucky to have them in our town. This doesn’t even look at all of the non-tangible benefits of these healthcare systems like talented professionals entering our community, revenue dollars from other communities taking advantage of our great hospitals, and partnerships from these hospitals to create a better Modesto, so healthcare should be added as a reason as to why Modesto is famous. P
© Modesto Irrigation District
Lighting rebates
HVAC rebates
High efficiency motor rebates
Hartiasann cdheecrsesafted Modesto,CA (209)545-5495 fiscallinicheese.com
uing ng quality, contin of uncompromisi over n ga be at dition th a family dairy tra
100 years ago.
AIRPORTER
MODESTO TO SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DAILY FOR RESERVATION INFORMATION CALL: (209) 679-7777 BOOK ON-LINE AND RECEIVE A FIVE DOLLAR DISCOUNT View schedule and fares at:
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FLYSFO
617 Airport Way, Modesto CA 95354 APRIL 2017
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Stanislaus County Sheriff
1854
Keeping the Peace since
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Take a stand and help your community. JOIN our team today!
Chaplain Program | Dive Team | Explorers | Correctional Emergency Response Team | K9 Unit | Mounted Unit
For information on recruitment please call: (209) 567-4412 or beadeputy.com
OUR GEARS ARE ALWAYS SPINNING
The Parks Group has many “gears” to help power your projects. We provide everything in-house — printing & bindery, wide format, creative services support, branded merchandise, mailing, fulfillment & warehousing. Multiple solutions from a single source!
The
PARKS GROUP 209.576.2568 theparksgroup.com Modesto: 209.576.2568 1515 Tenth Street, Modesto, CA 95354 Stockton: 209.466.9026 445 W. Weber Ave, Suite 124A, Stockton, CA 95203
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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
WORK IN
a series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies
AGRICULTURE IS IN OUR ROOTS By: Noel Daniel
Dependable and local, Yosemite Farm Credit has made it their goal to serve the agricultural community. For the last century, they’ve worked to improve the income and well-being of their customers by supplying credit to those in need. “Yosemite Farm Credit (YFC) has served the community for over 100 years,” said Melba Miyamoto, Vice President and Marketing Relationship Manager at Yosemite Farm Credit. “As part of the national Farm Credit system, YFC provides affordable financial services to rural communities.” Being a farmer-owned co-op for so long has meant YFC has a thorough understanding and commitment to the region’s agriculture. Serving Stanislaus, Merced, Tuolumne, and Mariposa counties, YFC has a Board of Directors consisting of growers, dairy farmers, and ranchers. Not to mention, many of their employees grew up in agriculture, and still farm to this day. “Agriculture is in our roots!” said Miyamoto. “We are the only local ag lender in the area. Yosemite Farm Credit adheres to several values for our business and our employees.” These values include delivering service above self, utilize Association teamwork, and providing the highest possible quality services. They’re able to adhere to these values while serving over 5,000 members. They also participate in
SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT
(Courtesy of Never Boring)
over 300 community events throughout the year and provide scholarships to graduating seniors in local FFA chapters, totalling over $15,000 in scholarships every year. And their headquarters are local, too, taking up residence in Turlock, California. That means that all loan decisions are made locally, by those who live, farm, and invest in the area. Every borrower from YFC becomes a member, and every member shares in the collective successes through interest rates and dividends. Ultimately, Yosemite Farm Credit doesn’t treat its clients as a number. They build, nurture, and value the long-term relationships with their members and aim to provide the best and most local experience in agricultural banking. P
“ Yosemite Farm Credit has served the community for over 100 years… ”
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 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
B r a n d i n g . S t ra t e g y. D e s i g n . MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS
The 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. 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.
APRIL 2017
21
N E TW OR K I NG & REFERRALS
PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE SILVER LEVEL
Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC
Seven Up Bottling Corporation
E. & J. Gallo Winery
PLATINUM LEVEL
Acme Construction Company, Inc.
F & M Bank
Solecon Industrial Contractors
Kaiser Permanente
American Chevrolet
Galletto Ristorante
Solar City
Walmart
American Medical Response
Walmart Neighborhood Market
Aramark Uniform Services
Gianelli & Associates
Atherton & Associates, LLP
DIAMOND LEVEL
Certified Public Accountants
Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc. Golden Valley Health Centers Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.
Solid Networks, Inc. Stanislaus Distributing Stanislaus Food Products Company Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Storer Coachways
Bank of the West
Bank of Stockton
Beard Land and Investment Co.
Brightwood College
Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.
Brunn & Flynn
I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.
Sutter Gould Medical Foundation
Doctors Behavioral
California State University, Stanislaus
Infiniti of Modesto
Telcion Communications Group
Care One Home Health
International Paper Company
TSM Insurance
Doctors Medical Center-DMC
Iron Mountain, Inc.
Turlock Irrigation District
Frito-Lay Company, Inc.
Central Sanitary Supply Co.
JS West & Company
Union Bank
MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.
Central Valley Ag Grinding
Maxx Value Foods
Modesto & Empire Traction Co.
Central Valley Automotive
Pacific Southwest Container
Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge
Mercer Foods
Physician Referral Service-DMC
Central Valley Nissan
Health Center- DMC
and Hospice, Inc.
Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai
GOLD LEVEL
Central Valley Medical Group
Grover Landscape Services, Inc.
Mocse Credit Union The Modesto Bee Modesto Toyota
SunOpta Aseptic, Inc.
US Bank Valley Children’s Healthcare Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW Vintage Faire Mall W.H. Breshears, Inc.
Oak Valley Community Bank
Warden’s Office Products Center
Chuckchansi Gold Resort & Casino
O’Brien’s Market
Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet
Clark Pest Control
Pacific Gas & Electric Company
Wells Fargo Bank
Fiscallini Cheese Company
Cloudy in California
Panelized Structures Inc.
Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green
HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Collins Electrical
Pepsi Bottling Group
Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.
5.11, Inc.
Central Valley Specialty Hospital
Crystal Creamery DoubleTree Hotel
Comcast
PMZ Real Estate
Memorial Medical Center
of Modesto
Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.
Prime Shine Car Wash
Modesto Irrigation District
Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,
Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball
Prompt Staffing
RACOR, Division of Parker
Del Monte Foods
Delta Sierra Beverage
Hannifin Corporation
Pacher & Silva
Seneca Foods, LLC
The Eberhardt School of Business
Sysco Food Services of
English Oaks Nursing &
Central California
Taco Bell
Rehabilitation Hospital
Insurance Agency
D.B.A Courtesy Staffing
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc. Rogers Jewelry Company San Joaquin Valley College
Final Cut Media
Save Mart Supermarkets
First Choice Physician Partners
Smile Shine Family Dental
Food Maxx
Join us every
22
3rd Thursday of the month!
Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS
STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM
the
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A BETTER WAY TO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS
Clear the smoke to lower health care costs Make your business tobacco-free to improve employee health and your bottom line. Each employee who quits smoking saves you at least $210 in insurance costs almost immediately.* Visit us online to download our tobacco-free campus toolkit, a step-bystep action plan for making your company a smoke-free environment.
Choose better. Choose Kaiser Permanente.
* “Tobacco: The Business of Quitting,� National Business Group on Health, November 2011.
kp.org/workforcehealth