Progress July 2015 by Modesto Chamber of Commerce

July 2015 Vol. 36 Issue 7 modchamber.org

Modesto A CITY OF GREAT NEIGHBORS

National Night Out

Work For Success

Water

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CONTENTS JULY 2015

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 David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

LEADERSHIP

Message from the CEO

COVER STORY

Modesto: A City of Great Neighbors

GUEST COLUMN

Law Enforcement’s Role Public Safety

Chairman-Elect Eric Tobias, F&M Bank

NETWORKING & REFERRALS

Past Chairman Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA

EDITORIAL

Vice Chairman, External Operations Brad Hawn, CHG

National Night Out

Vice Chair, Marketing & Events Laura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions

YOUTH IN THE COMMUNITY

Directors Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Jeff Burda, Wells Fargo Mid-Valley Commercial Banking Mike Garcia, Oak Valley Community Bank David Gingerich, TD Gingerich Insurance Solutions, Inc. Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Craig Lewis, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stephen Madison, STANCO Virginia Madueño, Imagen Public Relations Nate Miller, Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Tom Nielsen, Beard Land and Investment Co. Peggy O’Donnell, Mid-Valley Promotion Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc. Kole Siefken, DoubleTree Hotel Lucy Virgen, Bank of the West Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

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 2015 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

Providing Options & Hope

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Leadership Modesto: Planning, Development & Infrastructure Day

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Corner

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, The Alliance Melissa Williams, Modesto Irrigation District Carlos Yamzon, StanCOG Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce CRussell@ModChamber.org

Chamber Calendar

JOHN VILLINES DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & OPERATIONAL SERVICES

The constant battle cry here at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce is “Progress.” The Staff strives each and every day to move the rock forward in terms of boosting business for our members by creating unparalleled networking opportunities, greater exposure, and enhanced B2B platforms. The Board works hard to address and influence such “big picture” issues that affect all individuals and organizations that do business or operate in the greater Modesto region – issues such as job creation, economic development, water and land use rights, more reasonable business regulations, and streamlining government processes. Here’s the rub – it’s not entirely free to you, the Member (and I’m not referencing your membership dues). It costs you something – your time, your participation, your effort. What good are networking opportunities to grow your business if you continue to decide you will attend “next month?” What good is providing you the opportunity to use the monthly Progress Magazine as a platform for your business or cause if you fail to submit announcements or articles for publication? You have paid your dues, and now it is time to utilize what you have paid for to increase that ROI. Along the way, you will find that you will also strengthen your business and community relationships. The Chamber is here for you. We serve you. Simply show up, and you will reap the reward. Become engaged in the opportunities offered, and increase your possibilities. If you would like to find out more ways to become involved, contact me at jvillines@modchamber.org or at 209.577.5757.

JULY 2015

PUBLI C A DVO CACY

CHAIRMAN CORNER

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By David Gianelli, Chairman of the Board

By Chamber President and CEO Cecil Russell

Modesto’s core is agriculture. The Chamber is well aware of that fact and has been and will continue to be a champion for our farmers and our agricultural industry. We understand that we need to protect farmland as it feeds our agricultural industry that is the base of most of the jobs that exist in our community. Yet with that base Modesto still has DAVID GIANELLI high unemployment and even higher CHAIRMAN OF THE underemployment. Modesto is considered one BOARD of the most impoverished communities in the nation. Our community has grown in population, but not in jobs. For nearly the last 40 years, Modesto’s growth has been solely to provide cheaper housing than the Bay Area alternative. The result has been congested highways caused by a huge increase in commuters, poorer air quality, and a jobs/housing imbalance that in 2008 led to a collapse in property values and a collapse in the construction industry that led to even higher unemployment and poverty. While the Bay Area is now thriving, Modesto has not recovered from this collapse. The Chamber wants to reverse this imbalance for Modesto. We favored the initial Stamp Out Sprawl initiative which limited housing growth but would allow Modesto to bring in more space for business and industrial development. Now that initiative includes restrictions on expansion of Modesto’s boundaries for business and industrial development. We cannot and do not support such an initiative. We see it as making it much more difficult for Modesto to reduce poverty and improve its jobs/housing imbalance. We need to generate wellpaying jobs in this community - jobs that pay living wages - not take away Modesto’s hope for the future. Over the next couple of months, the Chamber will provide a series of articles that will help the Modesto community to understand the impact that Stamp out Sprawl will have on Modesto. Please take the time to read these articles and understand the issues and impacts that the Stamp out Sprawl initiative will have on the Modesto community. P

June was a great month for Modesto; we had a great kick off for our annual Graffiti Summer. The ceremony for the 2015 inductees to the “Legends of the Cruise Walk of Fame” drew a large crowd with the Chevy Club displaying some great cars. Chris Murphy was not only the Master of Ceremonies for the event, but his band provided the musical entrainment. Thank you goes out to CECIL RUSSELL CHAMBER PRESIDENT Chris for all that he does to keep the AND CEO Graffiti tradition alive. The North Modesto Kiwanis did another fantastic job with the Graffiti Parade/Cruise and their car show. The move to the municipal golf course provided a great venue for all of the car owners to display their cars. All of these events were well attended and continue to create very positive images of Modesto. The Leadership Modesto class of 2015 had their graduation on Friday, June 12. They graduated a great class that we are sure will be leaders in their business and in our community. Thank you to all of the Day Chairmen and the entire Steering Committee for their continued dedication to help develop future leaders for our community. Speaking of leadership, we have challenges facing our community. There are three that are of great concern. The Mayor and City Council have put on the ballot a general sales tax measure to raise additional funds for public safety and other items that they believe are needed. An additional ballot measure is the limited job growth item advanced by the antijob growth group. Their measure is dubbed “Stamp out Sprawl” (really stamp out jobs), and in its present form would restrict all job growth outside of our current city boundaries. This would severely limit Modesto’s ability to attract major job creation companies from locating. It would also limit Modesto’s tax base from growing. If this happens it would increase the call for increased future taxes to support additional public safety and other infrastructure needs for the city to provide services. These measures, along with the coming election of mayor and three city council seats, will determine the future of Modesto. Your Modesto Chamber’s Government Relations Committee (GRC) will interview all of the candidates in the coming months, and will print in our Progress Magazine their answers in a side-by-side comparison. The GRC will also make its comments and recommendation, on the ballot measures. Staying with the theme of leadership, the Chamber will continue to share information that surrounds the very critical issue of water. We are reproducing an editorial that the Modesto Bee published, by Assemblyman Adam Gray. This piece (found after my article) outlines the severity of the State’s action and its consequences to our economic health. P

PUBLIC AD VOCACY

STATE IS UNFAIRLY TAKING WATER F R OM SA N JO AQ UIN VA LLEY By Assemblyman Adam Gray Our water crisis is both natural and man-made. Since California’s last major reservoirs opened in the early 1970s, our population has grown by 67 percent, but our water storage capacity has grown by only 1 percent. Last November, voters approved a $7.5 billion bond issue to improve water infrastructure, build new storage and make our groundwater basins sustainable. The state has mandated reductions in water use of as much as 36 percent in some cities, and farmers have fallowed thousands of acres. I represent one of California’s most economically challenged areas. It is also one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions. While all Californians have to overcome the drought’s impacts and the depletion of our groundwater basins, my district faces an additional, state-imposed challenge to its water supply – the emptying of our rivers into the SacramentoSan Joaquin Delta.

Even before the drought, the state water board acknowledged the negative impact of increased flows on our groundwater basins, calling it “significant but unavoidable.” The board has been very clear that there will be no mitigation, despite the fact that the three major reservoirs that serve our area were financed by local ratepayers and are not state or federal projects. Last year, California adopted groundwater management legislation, which required mitigation for the impact of groundwater pumping on river flows. The measure should have included such relief when the state mandates increased surface water flows, but the state water board opposed this. Our local communities have attempted to persuade the state board to change its plan. Assembly Bill 1242, which would require the board to consider alternative measures to restore fish before approval of flow increases, recently passed in the Assembly.

In 2012, the State Water Resources Control Board decided to require a 35 percent increase in flows to the Delta from the Merced, Stanislaus and Tuolumne rivers. No such demands were made on other rivers.

All Californians know we need to pull together to overcome our water challenges. Pointing fingers is not productive. Every region of the state has been ordered to make significant cuts in water use, and our area is willing to do its part.

These three rivers account for 5 percent to 7 percent of total flows into the Delta, so taking 35 percent more from them will produce only a 1 percent increase. This is barely measurable for the Delta, but the impact locally is devastating.

But in an especially hard-hit region, it makes little sense for the water board to insist on actions that will reduce storage that the state did not pay for in the first place. Its plan would take water currently used for irrigation and drinking and would eliminate our best chance at recharging groundwater supplies – all without any relief for the devastation it will cause. P

The reason given for the increased take from these three rivers is to restore endangered fish populations, but flow increases are not the exclusive answer. If they are approved, however, water previously saved for drinking and irrigation would flow into the Delta, where it would become available for other uses, urban and agricultural. It also could be transferred south through the canal, or run into the ocean.

Adam Gray, D-Merced, represents the 21st Assembly District. Originally published June 15 in the Modesto Bee

JULY 2015

{ CO VER STO R Y }

Modesto A CITY OF GREAT NEIGHBORS By Brad Hawn & Marvin Jacobo What comes to your mind when you think of a healthy neighborhood? Usually, what comes to mind is connectedness, kindness, thriving local businesses, and a feeling of safety and well-being.

A nonprofit called Modesto Neighborhoods, Inc. was formed to assist and encourage neighbors (businesses included) to:

Intentionally get to know each other,

The diminished economy has us re-examining what gives us our sense of safety and belonging. Families have less time to spend together, parents are working longer hours, everyone is on a tight schedule, and time to personally replenish is short. In the rush of life, we have forgotten to make relational connections not only at home, but also at work.

Enhance neighborhood safety through

From this feeling of disconnect, there is a growing longing for more connectedness with people around us. It is being brought back by the simple act of what is being called “neighboring.” It is relearning what being a good neighbor means.

A general definition of a “neighbor” is one who lives close, one’s fellow human being, and a person who shows kindliness. Now how does this relate to safety? Safety is the condition of being protected from danger or risk, or something designed to prevent injury or damage. You put a neighbor together with safety, and you get a neighborhood with a feeling of closeness and protection. Today, a neighborhood business can amplify this sense of community, safety, and connection for those neighbors living close to them. A good business is also a good neighbor. All of this together creates a thriving, vital sense of community. Local residents and businesses have an increasing sense of personal responsibility that everyone is responsible for the health and well-being of our neighborhoods. A growing group of citizens are working to support and accelerate this movement where neighbors know each other.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

mutual support,

Develop a feeling of connectedness,

Address their neighborhoods specific needs and interests, Strengthen the assets that are in their

neighborhoods,

Beautify their surroundings,

Nurture a family-friendly atmosphere, and,

Develop a sense of self-worth in themselves

and their neighborhood through shared goals and interests.

We help neighbors connect with each other and work alongside Modesto’s diverse neighborhoods to help them meet their goals. The mission of Modesto Neighborhoods, Inc., is “Making Modesto Better One Neighborhood at a Time.” The vision of the non-profit is to Promote, Empower, Assist, Connect and Equip (P.E.A.C.E.) Modesto’s neighborhoods and to be what Modesto is, A City of Great Neighbors.

What this means is to: Promote/Advocate to law enforcement, government officials, neighbors, non-governmental organizations, residents of Modesto, schools, churches, and businesses.

each other. We know each other. No matter if you are an individual, a business owner, an elected official, or a volunteer, we are the ones who make each other feel safe by our actions towards each other, and the many ways we look out for one another.

Empower (to draw out the gifts, abilities, talents and assets of

Conversations citywide are going on about a new approach of working collaboratively together. Why duplicate services or skills, when organizations, businesses, and individuals can share these resources with each other?

Assist neighborhoods in meeting their goals.

It is time to revisit and look again, to recognize and see what is not working, and then to focus on new ideas and insights that may not have been considered before. It is this creative process that can help our city and neighborhoods feel safer. By understanding what we are facing, we can then make the change to “Making Modesto Better, One Neighborhood at a Time.”

neighbors and neighborhoods) through leadership, trainings, encouragement, mentoring, supporting, cross-learning, and materials.

Connect with other neighborhoods, groups, and resources. Equip neighborhoods with the tools needed to be successful, i.e., working with volunteers, use of media running meetings, developing events and gatherings, a guidebook to help organize a neighborhood group, developing youth leadership and service, working cooperatively, delegating, and providing information to bring together interested neighbors, and to help make the activities sustainable. We have found that by working in collaborative partnerships with the Modesto Police Department, Stanislaus County Sheriff ’s Department, Modesto Fire Department, city and county officials and staff, and other like-minded community groups, it builds trust. We share the knowledge amongst us of what works for our community and what does not work. We share our skills with

Think about how you can do something every day to create a safer, supportive place to live. It can be a simple smile, helping someone, taking some personal time to reflect and relax, or envisioning how you want to see your neighborhood. Take one action every day. You will be a part of making the change for the better. P For more information on Modesto Neighborhoods, Inc., visit www.modestoneighborhoods.com or e-mail modestoneighborhoods@gmail.com.

“neighbor”is one who lives close, one’s fellow human being, and a person who shows kindliness.

GO VE R NMENT R ELATIO NS

FIGHT CONTINUES TO PROTECT SMALL BUSINESS ES F R OM PREDAT O RY ADA LAW SUIT S By Assemblymember Kristin Oslen One of my top priorities as your Assemblymember has been helping small businesses to grow and prosper in the Central Valley. Unfortunately, local businesses are targeted every day by frivolous lawsuits from predatory lawyers abusing the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as the ADA. The ADA ensures that those with physical disabilities are able to easily access businesses and public spaces, and many buildings have been upgraded to make this happen. It is a well-intentioned law meant to give every Californian equal access to public buildings and private businesses. KRISTIN OLSEN ASSEMBLYMEMBER

Keeping up-to-date with the state’s disability access laws is difficult, however, because the standards change on a regular basis. As we have seen time and time again, predatory lawyers abuse the ADA to target small businesses; filing junk lawsuits over minor, unintentional violations. Businesses aren’t given any opportunity to fix these violations, and are forced to write big checks to settle the cases. These lawyers aren’t acting

out of concern for the disabled – they are twisting the law for personal gain. This session, I worked with Valley Republicans and Democrats to draft bills that give some relief to businesses slapped with shakedown lawsuits. As drafted, AB 54 would have given small businesses 60 days to fix any problems if the construction standards had changed within the past three years before they could be sued. Unfortunately, this provision was removed by the Chair of the Assembly Judiciary Committee. In its present form, my bill would offer a tax credit for those who receive an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist, or CASp. Small businesses that are hit with a lawsuit can request a court stay and an early evaluation conference if their building had new construction approved by a CASp inspection, no subsequent modifications were made, and all violations were corrected within 60 days. While this tax credit doesn’t go as far as I would like, it is a good start. CASp services cost between $1500 and $3000, so it would be helpful if they were more affordable for small businesses. AB 54 continues to be a work in progress. I will work on it for the rest of 2015, and present it again before the Legislature in 2016. I am not giving up this important fight. In the coming months, I will be fine tuning the bill, working with stakeholders and the community to determine other reforms and how big a tax credit we should offer businesses to achieve CASp certification. Working with Democrats and Republicans, small business owners, and members of the community, we will focus on what more can be done to stop ADA abuse.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Legislature, which includes portions of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. Follow her on Twitter: @KristinOlsenCA

GUEST COLUMN L AW ENFORCEMENT’S ROLE IN PUBLIC SAFETY By Jessica Burke, Burke Consulting

JESSICA BURKE BURKE CONSULTING

As both a psychologist and the wife of a police officer, public safety is an issue that I see from multiple perspectives. As an organizational productivity consultant, I strongly believe that police departments could benefit the most from my work. Officers need to be productive as much as employees of any other establishment, if not more so. The difference is that the productivity of a police department is pivotal to securing a safe community, as well as enhancing and maintaining the quality of life therein.

My husband often hears from citizens, “Hey! I pay your salary!” To an extent, this is a true statement. So that would beg the question, should the citizens as employers be more vested in their employee? If the goal is public safety, the city as a whole should be striving for maximum productivity. What do we need to implement to make that happen? I tell my clients that the most important component to boosting productivity is employee satisfaction. If someone loves their job, their environment, and their boss, they are going to work harder, and produce more efficiently. “Happy wife, happy life!” After all, employers generally spend more time with their employees than they do their spouses.

The same concepts can be applied to law enforcement officers. Even those that feel safe and secure in their sprawling home on a hill or in a gated community can fall victim to a deteriorating quality of life as a result of a poor execution of policing. Criminal activity can easily be recognized as the major player in the general picture of a community, simply by comparing cities on opposite ends of the socio-economic spectrum. The only way to combat the effects is to have an appropriate police force. So how do we prevent this? Simply boosting morale and satisfaction in each law enforcement officer can make a positive difference. Salary proportionate to risk of line of duty death, acceptable benefit packages, and general recognition of good work would be a good start. The ratio of officers to citizens also has an impact. The population of Modesto is roughly 200,000. Currently there are approximately 200 sworn police officers employed with the city. That means that for every 1 officer, there are 1,000 citizens to consider. When an officer is not inundated with calls to which he is dispatched, he is available for a prompter response to distress calls. He has more time to engage in proactive policing, and establish a healthy rapport with the community. Further, those 911 calls that could not be fully and appropriately addressed can easily damage the community’s ability to feel safe in their environment. Not only does the citizen to officer ratio need to be balanced, more efforts need to be made to boost morale for maximum productivity. Otherwise, every community stands to only further degrade their own quality of life. It is time to give credit where credit is due, and to retain the positive effects. P

JULY 2015

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

CHAMBER CALENDAR JULY 2015

AUGUST 2015

1 & 15

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

5 & 19

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Kirk Lindsey Center 1020 10th St. Plaza, Ste. 102 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM

CHAMBER U - HIRE SLOW - FIRE FAST

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1114 J ST.

9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 A.M.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

Grocery Outlet 1800 Prescott Rd. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

CHAMBER U - CONSTANT CONTACT

BASIC TRAINING - IMC CONSULTING

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

STATE OF BUSINESS & EDUCATION

1114 J ST.

MARTIN G. PETERSEN CENTER

9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 A.M.

720 12TH ST.

7:00 A.M. TO 9:30 A.M.

SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS

Rabobank (Pelandale) 3801 Pelandale Ave., Ste. E7 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING

Modesto Chamber of Commerce

1114 J St. 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

CHAMBER U – COLLEGE PLANNING

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

& SAVINGS – BLOM & ASSOCIATES

Alliance Worknet

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1114 J ST.

9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 A.M.

1020 10th. St. Plz.,Ste.102 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

*MEMBERS ONLY MEETINGS HELD AT THE CHAMBER 1114 J STREET **PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.MODCHAMBER.ORG

CHAMBER U – COLLEGE PLANNING & SAVINGS By Michael Blom, Blom & Associates Minimizing the out-of-pocket cost of COLLEGE – It’s no secret it’s expensive. In fact, other than the purchase of a home, the cost of a college education could be the greatest expense a family will incur. Unfortunately, too many families stumble into the college years in the dark about the process of college selection, financial aid, and funding college expenses. As a result, they fill out college application and financial aid forms hoping for the best, but often pay far more than necessary. Meanwhile, it’s the informed family that generally pays much less for college than the uninformed family.

This 1 hour presentation is designed to arm parents (regardless of income) with knowledge of the college aid, funding, and college selection process to help them REDUCE the overall cost of a college education. P

JUNE 2015

EDI TOR IAL

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT By Rosie Garcia and Stephany Valadez, Crime Prevention Off icers

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods a safer, better place to live. National Night Out is celebrated annually the first Tuesday of August; this year National Night Out is Tuesday, Aug. 4. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. This event provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. National Night Out was founded by the National Association of Town Watch in 1983. NATW is the nation’s premier non-profit crime prevention organization dedicated to the development and promotion of crime prevention in communities across the nation. NATW recognizes cities for their efforts to promote National Night Out. Modesto was recognized in 2014 as first in California among cities with like populations, and fifth nationally. Throughout the nation, along with the traditional “lights on” and front porch vigils, there are thousands of block parties, cookouts, parades, ice cream socials, neighborhood flashlight walks, safety fairs, poster and essay contests, and neighborhood meetings. There are also visits by law enforcement agencies, city officials, fire department and city departments such as parks and recreation, and other events and activities that celebrate the spirit of National Night Out.

Modesto is very fortunate to have a strong community partnership with neighborhood watch groups, church groups and businesses to promote and celebrate National Night Out. It is rewarding to our officers and the community to be able to get together and visit with each other at block parties, meeting one-on-one to build relationships. In 2014, Modesto residents hosted 116 parties, with 275 neighborhoods joining together. Modesto is a “City of Great Neighbors” whose residents are very familiar with National Night Out, and the enthusiasm seems to be growing more and more every year. We are also seeing more residents have parties at their neighborhood parks. This is great because it then encompasses the neighbors from several streets around the park, thus making a positive impact on the neighborhood, growing stronger ties and interest in neighborhood watch. We all know that when neighbors know each other they are more apt to keep an eye out for one another. Together we can make a difference! P CA LL TH E M O D E STO PO LI CE D E PAR TMEN T CR I M E PR E VE NTI O N U NI T R osie Ga rcia , 209. 572. 9636 ga rcia ro@ modestopd. com, a nd Stepha ny Va la dez, 209. 572. 9639, v a la dezs@ modestopd. com BY JULY 17 TO RE GI STE R YO UR NATI O NAL NI GH T O UT PARTY.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Stanislaus County Sheriff

1854

Keeping the Peace since

Take a stand and help make a difference in your community. JOIN our team today!

For information on recruitment please call: (209) 567-4412 or beadeputy.com

SAVE THE DATE State of Business & Education Martin G. Petersen Center, August 20, 2015 7 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

N ETW ORKIN G & REFERRALS

Introducing

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Pat Dickerson 1101 Sylvan Ave. Ste. C-105 Modesto, CA 95350 209.544.9279 209.524.7454

formerly Bank of Agriculture & Commerce

www.cancer.org Arts & Entertainment

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY Rebecca Valiez 3300 W. Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85017 480.389.8297

OUR NEW name… · Maintains BAC’s strong brand recognition. · Reflects BAC is a community bank serving individuals and a variety of business sectors including agriculture.

www.gcu.edu Education & Schools

DEANNA M CRICHTON, NOTARY PUBLIC Deanna Crichton PO Box 581912 Modesto, CA 95358 209.985.1300

· Celebrates our 50th Year Anniversary.

209.850.4058 Professional Services

HAZARD MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. Tina Chipponeri 207 McHenry Ave. Modesto, CA 95354 209.551.2000 209.575.5657

bankbac.com

LOCATIONS MODESTO 1625 J Street 209-544-2227

Member FDIC

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

www.hazmanage.com Environmental Services

To become a member of the Chamber visit us at www.modchamber.org or call our Membership Director, John Villines, at 209.577.5757

COM MUN ITY D EVELOPMEN T

ANNOUNCEMENTS In September, 2001, Dittos opened its doors to downtown Modesto. Hatched from the minds of three local businessmen and high school buddies (Davis High Class of 1987), there was a vision of taking on the big boys in the copy world. Fast-forward a decade and the landscape of the copy industry has changed dramatically, as the national chains continue to change the business models and consolidate. Now fully established as Modesto’s Copy Center, our business has seen explosive growth over the past three years, fueled by high quality, fair pricing and exceptional customer service. A move late last year from downtown into the more retail-centric McHenry Village has helped fuel our success. With a second production facility on Bangs Avenue, Dittos offers a full range of products produced locally on our own equipment (digital, offset printing, oversized, mailing services, promotional products and apparel). As a two-time recipient of the Chamber Member of the Year, Dittos is committed to supporting local businesses and honored to have received the same in return. We invite all of you to visit us in McHenry Village as we all continue to make Modesto a great place to live and do business. P

SHOW CASE Your BUSINESS Have a new location or renovation to show off ? Host a “Showcase Your Business” and let the community see your new digs! For more information call Lynda Jost at 209.577.5757 ext. 111.

Casa de Modesto, a not for profit retirement community, is celebrating serving the community for 50 years! Casa de Modesto provides the highest quality, affordable and innovative accommodations, and service to their seniors. They are the only multi-level retirement community in Modesto. They provide independent, assisted living, and skilled nursing all on one campus. They are the perfect destination for individuals wanting to stay on one campus as their needs change, while continuing to enjoy dining and activities with friends. P

JULY 2015

EDU CA TI O N

SPECIALIZED TRAINING PREPARES YOUNG ADULTS FOR THE WORKFORCE By Scott Kuykendall, Assistant Superintendent, Stanislaus County Office of Education Creating an educated and employment ready workforce is a major component of Stanislaus County’s Office of Education (SCOE’s) Come Back Kids program. Through a partnership with the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds and the Northern CA Construction Trades, SCOE’s Educational Options Division hosted a 4-week boot camp training platform to prepare youth for the construction trades. The trainees SCOTT KUYKENDALL received instruction in safety and solar photovoltaic (PV ) with an opportunity to earn certifications and a Laborer’s Union card. “Once the students earn their certifications and Laborer’s Union card they will be considered first for a job in the ‘green’ market and go straight to work,” said Instructor Brian Hurd. “This is a real benefit to students who take the boot camp training. Plus, the training is free of charge.” The student trainees participated in safety courses covering first aid, CPR, confined space and traffic control, along with OSHA10 for construction and general industry.

During phase one of the solar PV courses, students were taught the basics of solar electricity orientation, the fundamentals of photovoltaics theory, and installation concept. While in phase two, the trainees received advanced instruction that combined theory with hands on applications in photovoltaics system design and commercial installations. “If you have never experienced the aspect of solar panels, this is a great way to expand your horizon and explore solar installation as a career,” said student Lazarus Simon. “We are teaching them how to turn the sun’s energy into electricity,” said instructor Joe Neally. “The students learn to estimate how many kilowatts a business or home will need, and then design the solar array to provide that energy.” It has been an exciting year for this program. Students have applied their classroom training by assisting with special projects at the fairgrounds, such as refurbishing bleachers. As they graduate from this program they not only leave with employment skills and an industry recognized certification, but the knowledge that they’ve played a part in preparing for the 2015 Stanislaus County Fair. P

“

IT HAS BEEN AN EXCITING

YEAR FOR THIS PROGRAM. STUDENTS HAVE APPLIED

THEIR CLASSROOM TRAINING BY ASSISTING WITH SPECIAL PROJECTS AT THE

”

FAIRGROUNDS…

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

N ETW ORKIN G & REFERRALS

{ JUNE } B U S INE SS

BEFORE H OURS

Business Before Hours hosted by: IT SOLUTIONS

ITSolutions|Currie delivers superior IT solutions with integrity while developing successful business relationships through mutual trust and respect. They do this with empowered, dedicated, and motivated associates while promoting an atmosphere of fun. Businesses come to ITSolutions|Currie for capability, reliability, security and ease of management for their technology networks. Engineered for affordability, they deliver high-performance and nocompromise functionality in technology products and solutions. Some of the services they offer include: network maintenance, design & upgrade, security, equipment repairs, data storage, disaster recovery and more! P

800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org

ÂŠ Modesto Irrigation District

Business Before Hours, Business After Hours and Showcase Your Business, call today to book yours! Call 209.577.5757.

Lighting rebates

HVAC rebates

High efficiency Refrigerator motor rebates recycling program

JULY 2015

ECON OMIC D EVELOPM EN T

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

TSM Insurance is pleased to announce Maria Rangel as a new Employee Benefits Producer. Having been in the insurance industry for many years, Maria has extensive knowledge and experience in the health insurance field, including the Affordable Care Act rules. She specializes in employee benefits, such as group health, dental and vision plans. Mariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to search for creative methods to reduce MARIA RANGEL costs for businesses while providing the highest level of benefits possible, satisfying both the employer and employees. Currently, Maria serves as board secretary and ambassador for the Central Valley Hispanic Chamber, ambassador for the Modesto Chamber, and treasurer for the Latino PAC of Stanislaus County. For more information, call 209.338.0685

BE RECOGNIZED BE ENTERTAINING BE COMFORTABLE BELONG. FIND OUT WHAT SENIOR LIVING WAS MEANT TO BE

Dale Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community

3900 Dale Road Modesto, CA 95356 209.526.2053 www.dalecommons.com RCFE #507004998

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Andrew Mendoza , 45, of Stockton, has been appointed to the California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. Mendoza has been a community and government relations manager at Kaiser Permanente Central Valley Areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Public Affairs Office since 2006. He served as a business and development manager at the City of San Jose Redevelopment Agency from 2000 to 2006 and chief of staff for San Jose City Council member Charlotte Powers from 1995 to 2000. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Mendoza is a Republican. P

STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM REACON Team Investors

Save the Date

Green Sponsors

Harvest Luncheon Graceada Park September 11, 2015 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

StanislausGreenTeam.com

For more information contact the Modesto Chamber 209.577.5757 Meetings are held the 3rd Thursday of every month from 9:00 a.m to 10:00 a.m. at the Kirk Lindsey Center, 1020 10th St. Plaza, Ste. 102

JULY 2015

GUEST COLUMN UNITED WAY’S 2-1-1 CALL CENTER CO N N EC TIN G PEO PL E TO RES O U RC ES By Amy Vickery In this county, where over 20 percent of residents live below the poverty level and one of every 2.5 residents receives public assistance, there is no shortage of people in need of health and human services. United Way’s 2-1-1 Call Center works day and night to connect callers to programs that can meet these needs. 2-11 is a free information and referral program for people living in Stanislaus County. The AMY VICKERY service connects callers to local programs VICE PRESIDENT, and resources that exist to lend a helping MARKETING & hand. Any Stanislaus County resident can DEVELOPMENT UNITED WAY OF utilize 2-1-1. Callers are assisted by a live call STANISLAUS COUNTY specialist who conducts a short personalized assessment to match a caller’s needs to the proper community resource(s). This saves time and frustration for callers who many times find themselves calling several organizations before they reach an agency that can help. The 2-1-1 call center also has a multi-language line, offering 2-1-1 services in many languages. As awareness of this resource grows, our call volume increases. In the 2013-2014 fiscal year we received approximately 8,738 calls.

As we close out the current fiscal year, we’ve exceeded last year’s call volume by nearly 1,000 calls. The majority of these calls were related to the most basic needs: food, shelter, clothing, and rent and utility assistance. Though basic needs have always been the most prevalent need of callers, the 2-1-1 database maintains information for hundreds of services and programs including childcare assistance, tutoring, unemployment help and more. United Way understands the varied needs of our community and the 2-1-1 Call Center is a critical component to making sure these needs are met. The objective of this program is to link those in need to local community resources, and help them meet their basic needs and grow to be self-sufficient. The program is currently funded by United Way, the Community Services Agency, Stanislaus County Children and Families Commission and Kaiser Permanente. P

“

… THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS PROGRAM

IS TO LINK THOSE IN NEED TO LOCAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES, AND HELP

THEM MEET THEIR BASIC NEEDS AND

”

GROW TO BE SELF-SUFFICIENT.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY ...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Name: Steve Rank, President & CEO Business: Rank Investigation and Protection, Inc. What is the history of Rank Investigations? I started the company about 13 years ago, focusing on private investigation and accident reconstruction. My son, Brian, and nephew, Anthony, came up with the idea about 8 years ago to add uniform security. The uniform security has accounted for most of the company’s growth. How does the company differ from when it started? Like a lot of small businesses, I started in an office in my home. Eventually I moved to Downtown Modesto and was still a one-man operation. Once the company expanded into uniform security, we began hiring employees to meet the demands of our new clients. We started our dispatch center about one-and-a-half years ago, which added to the employee force. How many employees do you have? Are there any other family members involved, and if yes, what are their roles? We average between 68 and 71 employees, most of them in uniform security. We have two investigators on staff and 5 dispatchers, plus administrative assistants. As I related above, my son Brian and nephew Anthony are managers in the operations division. What have you done in your professional career that has led you to where you are now? I am a retired police officer from an agency in the Bay Area. Having the investigative and operations experience is truly an asset in providing a higher level of service to our clients. The LE background is helpful in being able to relate to law enforcement and the legal community. Are you originally from this area? If not, where are you from and how did you come to the area? I am a Bay Area transplant. However, it was some 28 years ago that I moved to to this area. With two very young sons, I was searching for a community that had a low crime rate and better quality of life than the affordable parts of the East Bay had to offer. I commuted for about 12 years before retiring. When you were younger what goals did you set for yourself and why? When I was in my early teens I decided that I wanted to go into law enforcement as a career. I attended college in the Bay Area majoring in Administration of Justice. I started my law enforcement career just after I turned 21. What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life? How did you do so?

increasingly difficult to find. Most companies were searching for ways to reduce their expenses, and security was at the top of the chopping block. We continued to endure by looking for niches that we could capitalize on and promote growth within the company. We found that niche to be a rural patrol program on the east side of the county. We were really the pioneers in rural patrol, and soon we found ourselves in a growth spurt. Our patrol force has grown to 21 patrol vehicles from Merced to Sacramento counties. What are some accomplishments that you are particularly proud of? I am very proud of my son and nephew in how engaged they are in the company. I have a special pride in our employees who, because of their level of professionalism and commitment to our clients, are one reason that we continue to expand. In addition to our rural patrol we provide patrol services to Modesto neighborhoods and several gated communities. Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs? I am very involved in the communities that we serve. I am on the Board of Directors for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, Past President of Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers and more. I frequently give presentations to homeowners about our neighborhood security patrol programs and attend all of the crime prevention meetings that I can. What are your plans for the future? We are currently finishing up our latest project, which is installing a video wall in the communications center. I see camera technology has advanced over the last couple of years and is the way of the future. Our communications center will have the capability of monitoring hundreds of analytical cameras. After that, and some time in the future, I hope to work on my second retirement. What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? My first piece of advice to any business is have an honest and tangible business plan. It can be painful, but certainly put down on the paper what capital is needed and don’t over commit financially. Seek the help of experts. SCORE offers counseling at no cost and is comprised of successful business persons who can guide the business owner. Other organizations like the Modesto Chamber of Commerce have great resources in the business community that are truly an asset. What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community, and why do you think it is the Land of Opportunity? If an entrepreneur, or any business person for that matter, is willing to dedicate themselves to the community and endure what it takes to be successful, then Modesto has a place for you. I see Modesto continuing to recover from the economic downturn and offering more opportunities for businesses in both agriculture and services. P

There was a point in the company’s career where things became pretty bleak. The economy had turned for the worst and new clients where becoming 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.

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

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©2015. Principal Financial Services, Inc.Insurance products from the Principal Financial Group® are issued by Principal National Life Insurance Company (except in New York) and Principal Life Insurance Company. Securities offered through Princor Financial Services Corporation, (800) 247-1737, member SIPC. Principal National, Principal Life, and Princor® are members of the Principal Financial Group, Des Moines, IA 50392. AD2071-08 | t14062702ka JULY 2015

YOUTH IN THE COMMUNITY PROVIDING OPTIONS AND HOPE THROUGH THE WORK FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM By Judy Leitz, Communications Coordinator, Stanislaus County Office of Education

JUDY LEITZ

While many youth go to the Maddux Youth Center to play a game of basketball and hear the swish of a ball hitting “nothing but net,” there are other youth who go there because of a safety net called Work for Success. Sponsored by the Stanislaus County Office of Education, the Work for Success program offers a safe place and a second chance for youth to finish their education, learn employability and life skills, plus receive job training and help with career planning.

According to Work for Success teacher Vicki Trask, the goal of the program is to help 14 - 24 year-olds get the help needed to make positive changes in their lives. Participants are often referred to the program, however, the doors are also open to anyone looking to earn a GED or high school diploma. “We help anyone, at any age, who wants to learn, make a life change, improve employment skills, or seek help with anger management,” said Trask. “Our program also focuses on gang diversion to help participants make wise choices for the future.” Currently, Trask is working with teens and young adults who are affiliated with a gang lifestyle. “Each time the young people come to class, they are told this is a gang-free zone, and it’s a safe zone to learn and make better choices,” said Trask. When the program began in 2003, Trask wasn’t sure what to expect because the young people who came to the program didn’t exhibit much hope for their futures. Most are high school dropouts at risk of

involvement with the juvenile justice system, gang members, homeless, or teen parents. “It is hard for most of these youth to fulfill their dreams when they are living a nightmare. But, by teaching them there is hope through an education and career, they can turn the nightmare into a dream,” said Trask. “I tell the kids ‘You are here today, and it’s a safe place for you to come to change your life.’” More than 70 participating youth have earned a GED, and 24 earned a high school diploma since the inception of the Work for Success program. Success is also measured through those who are now employed and have advanced to higher education. “When adults believe in a young person, even those who are struggling to find their way, miracles can happen. I see this every day and it’s what brings me back each week,” said Trask. P

PROGRAM PARTNERS INCLUDE: •

CITY OF MODESTO

•

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

•

MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS

•

SALVATION ARMY

EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS/LIFE SKILLS TOPICS INCLUDE: • COMMUNICATION •

DECISION MAKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING

• INTERVIEWING/RESUME •

TIME MANAGEMENT

• TEAMWORK •

STRESS/ANGER MANAGEMENT

•

VALUES AND ETHICS

Work for Success meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 3:00 p.m. Maddux Youth Center, 615 Sierra Dr., Modesto For more information, call 209.652.1252

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

SAVE THE DATE

OKTOBERFEST

2015

John Thurman Field, October 2, 2015 5:30 p.m. -10:00 p.M.

meeting you where you are

Left: Brian Dugo, PCA/Farmer | Right: Chad Van Houten, CPA

When business moves fast, trust the professionals at Grimbleby Coleman to keep you on course. Contact us today at 209-527-4220 or gccpas.net. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the people behind the numbers.

JULY 2015

C O M M UNI TY DEV ELOP EMENT

PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE DAY By Samantha Wookey, Modesto Irrigation District

On Friday, June 5, the Leadership Modesto Class of 2014-15 ended the year learning about some of the inner workings of Modesto’s infrastructure. Planning, Development and Infrastructure Day gave us a look into how the Modesto Irrigation District controls electricity, the traffic control room at the City of Modesto, designing downtown, and Planning Commission meetings. The day started off at MID with LEADERSHIP MODESTO 14/15 the MID’s General Manager, Roger VanHoy, giving an overview of MID’s water and power operations. We then checked into MID’s Control Room where staff explained how MID generates and buys their electricity and then distributes it to the residents of Modesto. Staff also explains what happens during an outage, and how they work to get power restored. After a great discussion at MID, the Leadership Modesto class headed across the street to City Hall and got a look inside Modesto’s traffic control room. There we found a wall full of televisions with live video from every major intersection throughout Modesto. Our traffic tour guide gave a wonderful explanation about how the lights time themselves, coordinate with one another and he answered the very popular question of if the red light cameras are actually operating. To find out the answer to that question, you’ll have to take the traffic tour yourself!

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Following the traffic tour, we headed down to the council chambers and were given a spectacular presentation from Josh Bridegroom on Downtown Modesto’s past, present and future development. We then took what we learned about downtown development and put it into action. My fellow class members and I were tasked with the assignment of designing our ideal block in Downtown Modesto. Each group had a unique design and point of view, but at the end of the activity we learned that lots of nightlife in one location, one-way streets, and blocked off roads may not be ideal for a downtown area. After lunch (thank you to Galletto Ristorante for a great meal!), we assembled in the council chambers once again and performed a Planning Commission simulation. During this activity, we were challenged to put our personal opinions aside and assume roles as various positions on the Planning Commission, City of Modesto staff, proponents or opponents. I think we all learned during this exercise that making decisions that will affect a large number of people is extremely difficult. The day wrapped up with a final panel discussion that included several city and county representatives. We debated topics such as Wood Colony, ag preservation, Salida annexation and downtown versus new development. Leadership Modesto has been a truly amazing experience and Planning, Development and Infrastructure Day was a great way to end a great year. Thank you to our Day Chairs – Melissa Williams, Josh Bridegroom and Ryan Swehla – and all the Leadership Modesto Steering Committee for your hard work! P

WORK IN

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

FA MILY PROMISE,CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF NEW BEGINNINGS FOR HOMELESS FA MILIES

By Tamra Losinski, Executive Director

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT (Courtesy of Never Boring)

Ever y day we bat tle pover t y with e m p o w e r m e n t . I t ’s a l i f e c h a n g i n g t h i n g . J u l y 4 , 2 015 m a r k s T E N Y E A R S o f d e l i v e r i n g t h i s u n i q u e, c o m p r e h e n s i v e program that changes lives… for the parent s, children and volunteers that walk side by side with our fellow r e s i d e n t s o f S t a n i s l a u s C o u n t y.

empowerment. It’s a life changing thing.”

It makes me smile when I think we opened our doors to ser ve our first group of families during the Four th of July weekend in 20 05 – celebr ating our c o u n t r y ’s I n d e p e n d e n c e a n d g i v i n g h o p e for independence to families without a place to c all home. Families with children are of ten the unseen homeless population as they sleep in cars, garages or motels to keep their f amilies together and of f the s treet s. I would like to t ake this oppor tunit y to thank our wonder ful communit y of Greater Modesto that has mobilized so many resources to combat the negative impac t on the lives of these families. To g e t h e r w e a r e m a k i n g a dif ference! P

B r a n d i n g . S t r a 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. neverboring.com

The parents that succeed in this program do so because of their hard work, the suppor t of hundreds of volunteers and the dedication and skill of our p r o f e s s i o n a l s t a f f.

battle poverty with

•

A major fac tor for our success lies in the power of our hospitalit y net work of congregations from all faiths. Par ticipating families with children experience an environment of acceptance and compassion as they are welcomed into the shelter of our hosting par tners.

“… Every day we

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

Where does a family turn when they find t h e m s e l v e s h o m e l e s s? H o w d o e s o n e b e g i n t o o v e r c o m e t h e s t i g m a o f p o v e r t y, a n d d e a l w i t h t h e i r f e a r, e m b a r r a s s m e n t a n d s h a m e? F a m i l y P r o m i s e c o n t i n u e s to be that critical bridge for parents and their children to guide them from hopelessness to a new beginning.

JULY 2015

N E TW OR K I NG & REFERRALS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

PLATINUM LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL

English Oaks Nursing &

Rabobank

E. & J. Gallo Winery

AT&T

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

First Choice Physician Partners

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Walmart

American Chevrolet

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Rogers Jewelry Company

Walmart Neighborhood Market

American Medical Response

F & M Bank

San Joaquin Valley College

Aramark Uniform Services

Galletto Ristorante

Smile Shine Family Dental

DIAMOND LEVEL

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Gianelli & Associates

Seven Up Bottling Corporation

Beard Land and Investment Co.

BIAlytics

Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc.

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Solar City

Doctors Behavioral

Brandman University, Chapman

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Solid Networks, Inc.

Harris Moran Seed Company

Stanislaus Distributing Stanislaus Food Products Company

Health Center- DMC

University System

Rehabilitation Hospital

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Brunn & Flynn

Heald College

Frito-Lay Company, Inc.

California State University, Stanislaus

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

Infiniti of Modesto

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Central Valley Ag Grinding

Institute of Technology

Pacific Southwest Container

Central Valley Autism Project Inc

International Paper Company

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Central Valley Automotive

JS West & Company

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

Kaplan College

GOLD LEVEL

Central Valley Nissan

Mercer Foods

5.11, Inc.

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Mike's Knock Out Burger & Rays

Bank of the West

Central Valley Medical Group

Crystal Creamery

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

Mocse Credit Union

DoubleTree Hotel

Children’s Hospital Central California

Modesto Commerce Bank

Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Modesto Toyota

Clark Pest Control

The Modesto Bee

Fiscallini Cheese Company

COIT Services Inc.

Oak Valley Community Bank

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Collins Electrical

O’Brien’s Market

Memorial Medical Center

Comcast

Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Modesto Irrigation District

Comforcare Home Care Services

Panelized Structures Inc.

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Concordia Claims Managers

Papa John’s

RACOR, Division of Parker

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

Pepsi Bottling Group

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

PMZ Real Estate

Save Mart Supermarkets

Post Foods, LLC

Seneca Foods, LLC

DeAngelos Jewelry

Prime Shine Car Wash

Switch to Vapor

Del Monte Foods

Prompt Staffing

Sysco Food Services of

Delta Sierra Beverage

The Eberhardt School of Business

Care Center

Hannifin Corporation

Central California

Taco Bell

Pacher & Silva

Bar-B-Que

D.B.A Courtesy Staffing

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Storer Coachways SunOpta Aseptic, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation TSM Insurance Turlock Irrigation District Union Bank US Bank Uno Chicago Grill Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW Vintage Faire Mall W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Insurance Agency

Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

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* â&#x20AC;&#x153;Poor Nutrition Increases Sickness Absence 50%,â&#x20AC;? Workplace Savings and Benefits, accessed October 22, 2012.

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