October 2013

Volume 3, Number 10

The Three Legged Stool

The metaphor of the three legged school is applied to many organizations. In education, the legs represent the parents, administration and teachers. CEO’s consider achievement, trust and “personal” For business, the legs mean product/services, marketing and financial management. Cities consider environment, economy and society. Even our federal government has the legislative, judicial and executive branches. In every case, each leg has equal importance.

When considering the role of the Chamber in our community I realized that our three legged stool would be the city, CUSD and the Chamber. They represent government, education and business. All three must work together and be successful for the city to thrive.

In Clovis, that stool is very stable. By being well run, the city is able to support our education system and business. CUSD brings quality citizens who believe in education and create new business. The Chamber works with the city on economic development while supporting the schools. All three are connected and all three are successful.

If you want an instant pick-me-up, attend the Mayor’s Breakfast in May and the CUSD Breakfast in September. When you hear all the positive reports about the city and schools, you’ll really appreciate living in Clovis.

What they report is not spin. No pie-in-the-sky exaggerations about budgets or revenues. When times were tough, they honestly told us the bad news but always assured us that they were paying attention and making smart moves to pull us out of the recession. It worked.

In May, Mayor Lynne Ashbeck told us about how the city budget is healthy with growing reserves. Just having any reserves is a miracle for most cities and ours are approaching 14%. Staff is being rehired and cutbacks reinstated.

I was pleased to hear that the annual 4% increase in our garbage rates was stopped several years ago and discounts will soon be offered for people opting for the smaller totes. I thought utility fees were only going up everywhere.

The much contested Clovis Crossings Shopping Center is up and running and experiencing above budget sales. Several new stores and restaurants will be open soon. The increased customer base it has brought to Clovis has overflowed to other areas as several longtime vacant stores on

Shaw Avenue have new tenants. The new WalMart Grocery has opened at Shaw and Fowler and work is being completed on the Burlington Coat Factory in the old Vons at Shaw and Minnewawa.

New jobs are being created and new homes are being built. All are good signs.

During this past week we heard CUSD Superintendent Janet Young tell us details about our award winning district. Enrollment is up by over 900 students, another sign of growth in Clovis.

The schools continue to be academic powerhouses. With a district wide API score of over 800 points, CUSD is the number one school in districts of more than 26, 000 students.

CUSD is the only district in the country to have all five middle schools recognized as Schools to Watch.

19 of the 23 Valley Championships were won by Clovis schools in the last year.

For the 14th straight year, CUSD won the International Meritorious Budget Award for its smart budgeting. This is an amazing feat considering that CUSD receives $1,700 less per child than other Valley districts. That’s $56 million before this year’s realignment by the government. After realignment, CUSD will receive $3,900 less per child but through the efforts of the administration, teachers and parents the district will survive quite well. As Superintendent Janet Young stated, “No excuses, just results”.

It just goes to show, it’s not the money that makes success. It’s the attitude and hard work.

The community recognizes and approves CUSD’s efforts as it received an 86.6% approval rating from CUSD parents.

The Clovis Chamber is the third leg of the stool and we’re proud of the responsibility. Growing the local economy and enhancing the Clovis Way of Life is our mission. By working with our members, we help their businesses grow and hire more people.

The Clovis Chamber is recognized for its networking events and advice. Our monthly mixers attract over 100 business people and our seminars are well attended. We are recognized as the 43rd out of 700 national chambers, fifth in the state, for our use of social media where we highlight various members and promote the Clovis Chamber brand.

It’s paying off. We have signed more

new members than all of 2012. Many are starting their own businesses yet others are long time or brand new larger businesses who recognize the value of a Clovis Chamber membership.

They’re smart to do that. A recent survey showed that 2/3 of respondents feel that a chamber member business is more responsible and support the community. That’s powerful for any company’s reputation.

The Chamber is serving on the Economic Development Advisory Committee with the city. We are learning about plans for the future and giving input on the city’s growth. This is important because the economy of the future will be like nothing we have ever seen.

Our support of Clovis Unified is unwavering. We know the importance of education for the Valley’s future. We appreciate CUSD’s support of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy and their work to recruit participating students. We also are concentrating on stopping the “brain drain” by working on ways to entice our graduates to stay or return to the Central Valley to raise their families.

And, of course, our events, BIG Hat Days and ClovisFest are not only economic drivers, they are also a source of much community pride. It’s a time the city is able to show off to visitors who see what a gem we have in the middle of the Central Valley.

With any piece of good, quality furniture, our three legged stool must be well tended and each leg must continue to support the others. With smart, dedicated people overseeing each leg, I’m sure it will hold up for many years to come.

InsiderClovis Business Resource Fair October 17th

You are invited to join the Clovis Chamber of Commerce at the Clovis Business Resource Fair, formerly Clovis Advantage, on October 17th. It will be held at the Clovis Veterans Memorial Building on Fourth and Hughes.

This is a great opportunity to see the best the Valley has to offer in products and services. Dozens of booths will be set up throughout the room where you can see displays and receive information about the companies. Many offer prizes and all have great advice.

Applications are pouring in with many new Clovis Chamber member businesses taking that step to promote their companies to hundreds of visitors. This will be one of the largest shows in recent years.

Sample delights from local restaurants and enjoy wine, beer or soda at the beverage bar.

We thank our sponsors Artco, Clear Channel Radio home of PowerTalk and Business Street. Sponsorships are still available.

Admission and parking are free and the

hours are 4 to 7 p.m.Participation is open to non-Clovis

Chamber members as well. Membership has its privelages as they enjoy a generaous discount.

Please visit the Chamber web site at www. Clovischamber.com or call Fran at 299-7363

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A PublicAtion of the clovis chAmber of commerce

Mark BlackneyCEO/PresidentClovis Chamberof Commerce

Message fromCEO/President

Clovis Chamber of Commerce325 Pollasky

Clovis, CA 93612299-7363 · Fax 299-2969www.clovischamber.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEKen May - Board ChairRick Snow - Past Chair

Snowflake DesignsShelley D’Arcy - Chair Elect

Kaiser PermanenteKarena Dillon - Vice Chair,

Chamber Gives BackBaker Dillon Group

Nick Maxwell - Vice Chair, FinanceLPL Financial

Gary Honeycutt - Vice Chair, Advocacy

B.J. Kountry KitchenEllie Huston - Vice Chair,

MarketingGina Estrada - Vice Chair,

NominatingAXA Equitable

BOARD OF DIRECTORSRandy Baer

Schneider ElectricRon Barsamian

Barsamian & Moody Professional Corp

Alex ContrerasDonaghy Sales

Rod GeistCentral Valley Community Bank

Bob HallHalran Consulting & Marketing

Nykole SullivanStarving Artists Bistro

Deborah IkedaWillow International Community

College CenterClaudia MoorefieldSee’s Candies, Inc.

Greg NewmanLand Value/Sierra Vista Mall

Vincent RicchuitiP-R Farms

Thom RichardsonSunrise DisplaysPaul Spraetz, Sr

Automatic Body by NutrieCheryl Storer

Cheryl Storer, CPASteve Ward

Clovis Unified School DistrictMary WilliamsDumont Printing

Young Entrepreneurs AcademyBy Fran BlackneyProgram Manager YEA!

For the past six months, we have been promoting the Young Entrepreneurs Academy, YEA!, to the Central Valley. As expected, it has taken awhile to get the word out, but I’m happy to report that people are listening.

This is the seven month, after school course that teaches high school students how to create and run an actual business or social movement. Clovis Unified and Willow International Community immediately recognized the value of YEA! and joined us in presenting the course.

Two of our three instructors are running their own businesses and the third works with small businesses through his position as manager of Central Valley Community Bank. We are pleased to have Bill Syvertsen of The Tutoring Club, Rick Snow of Snowflake Designs and Rod Geist of Central Valley Community Bank lead the students.

There are three facets to organizing the program. We needed adult volunteers to administer the curriculum and host field trips, monetary sponsorships and of course, the students to apply.

We are humbled by the dozens of business leaders who have stepped forward saying they want to help. “We’ll do whatever you need” has been a common phrase. We’re in the process of assigning the volunteers to fill positions. Since we have so many, we‘re being creative and will be offering extras to the students beyond the assigned curriculum.

Sponsors are stepping up including Central Valley Community Bank, Pelco by Schneider Electric and the Fresno Convention and Visitors Bureau. There are other companies who are including our program in their future budgets. All have said how important this effort is to our economy and see the value of financial support.

Funds will be used for scholarships for the course, investments in the students’ companies, events and field trips and other operating costs. The tuition is low, $395 for a seven month course and most of the work is done by volunteers and the Chamber program manager, so we’re keeping the costs to a minimum.

Our favorite interaction has been with the teachers, parents and students who have reviewed the YEA! program and are excited about its potential. Recently I visited an ROP classroom at a local high school to tell the students about YEA!. The teacher told me how important this program is because students are not getting this type of education any more. Schools have been unable to teach critical thinking and communication skills due to changing curriculum and constant, new regulations. She said she wished her own children could have taken the YEA! course.

We are hearing from more parents

who see the value of YEA!. They know their kids need a leg up to compete in the economy. Applications are coming in steadily.

But I have to say, we especially enjoy working with the students. We are visiting classrooms, hosting information meetings and talking to them on the phone or via e-mail. These are the kids who get it. They get that the people who are going to succeed are those who go the extra mile – who work a little harder, who are constantly looking ahead.

Every year, we participate in mock business interviews with students in the CART program. We usually talk to them about their aspirations and how they plan to achieve them. These are great kids, but it seems they are not prepared to face the difficult economy of the future.

It’s not their fault. Education and society have changed. As the ROP teacher told me, schools aren’t teaching as much critical thinking and communication as they used to. Supposedly the new Common Core curriculum is going to address this issue, but it’s not tested.

The advances in technology have impacted our kids. Rather than solving problems through critical thinking or common sense, they just visit the internet. I’ve heard kids say they don’t have to learn to spell because of spell check. And why learn any facts when you can just look them up?

People claim that communication has increased thanks to technology. However, they forget that talking eye-to-eye to someone is far different than texting or e-mailing. Voice inflections, emotion and expression can’t be transmitted via cyberspace.

The most harmful effect on our high school kids is the lack of paying jobs. Thanks to the high unemployment and minimum wage, low and unskilled workers are not being hired. That’s why we call

the minimum wage hike the Teenage Unemployment Act. These kids are not getting work experience they need for a successful future.

And employers are noticing. In a recent survey titled Employer Priorities for College Learning and Student Success conducted by The Association of American Colleges and Universities, over 300 employers agreed that “a candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems is more important than their undergraduate major.” Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate ethical judgment and integrity, intercultural skills, the capacity for continued new learning and have oral and written communication skills.

The future economy will depend on having highly skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Every economic prediction is that there will be a great shortage if our schools and institutions don’t start training our students. The students who do step up and obtain that extra training will be the ones to lead the future.

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy course does just that. We will take 24, select high school students and concentrate on entrepreneurship but more importantly, we are going to push them on critical thinking, communication and common sense. The kids who graduate on June 4th 2014 will not be the same who started on November 4th, 2013.

As I have written before, the Clovis Chamber’s focus this year is the upcoming generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs. We are thrilled to have the good fortune to be chosen by the US Chamber to present YEA!. Our efforts will have a direct impact on that generation and the economy and we take our responsibility seriously.

Fall Business Forum on Networking, November 7th

Networking, advertising, PR, marketing, cash flow and finances. Aren’t these some of the biggest concerns you have as a business owner? Starting this fall, we’ll be bringing you expert advice and the best ideas from authors, consultants and leading authorities in Clovis and the valley, for a ridiculously low cost.

On November 7th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at ITT Tech (Clovis/Herndon

Ave), get highly effective strategies on networking, personal development, time management and productivity from a panel of specialists for just $25 for members, $50 for non-members. The networking expert for this panel is our own Membership Director, Beth Bridges, author of “Networking on Purpose: A Five-Part Networking Success Plan to Build a Powerful and Profitable Business Network.”

CALL FOR SPEAKERSWe are seeking volunteer speakers

and experts in personal development, professional development, time management and productivity. Members preferred but not guaranteed. Please apply with your qualifications via email to beth@clovischamber.com

Register online at www.ClovisChamber.com or call 299-7363

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About this publication...Chamber Insider is the official

monthly publication of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, 325 Pollasky, Clovis, CA 93612, (559) 299-7363. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents or any portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

The appearance of any advertisements in this publication does not constitute support or endorsement for any product, person, cause, business or organization named therein, unless specifically noted otherwise in the advertisement.

Ambassadors Make Networking Easier for You

The Clovis Chamber Ambassadors make it easier for you to start networking with the Clovis Chamber. If you’re a new member and you’re wondering how mixers work, what to do and who to talk to... look for an Ambassador. They may be working at the front table or they could be mingling. Either way they are easy to find: they will be smiling and wearing a special white and green Clovis Chamber badge. Just walk up, introduce yourself and tell

them you’re new. They’ll take great care of you.

This month’s active Ambassadors are:Bev Stoccketti of GoTextPro, Bobbi

Jaurique of Fresno Regional Workforce Investment Board, Bobby Lim of New York Life, Brett Taylor of Taylor Home Designs, Chris Jue of Clovis IT Consulting, Christy Sasser of Ace Printing, Claudia Moorefield of See’s Candies, Ellie Huston, Gena Behrens of Ideas Plus, Heather Robison of Junk Drawer Gypsy, Kanina Johnson of Live Your Purpose, MaryKay VeenBoer of AAA, Michael Prieto of TeeShirtsandHats.com, Sally Dove of GoSmallBiz.com, Stan Skiba of the Advance Group, and Stephanie Musselman of AOS Office Systems. Help us welcome new Ambassadors Paige Orman of the Holiday Inn Airport, Yvonne Schwemmer of YourVoicePro, and Raymond Lopez of Edward Jones Investing.

Social Network withthe Clovis Chamber!

Follow us on: Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn www.facebook.com/ClovisChamber

twitter.com/clovischamberwww.linkedin.com/in/bethbridges

Good NewsThere is lots of good news from our

Chamber members. See what membership can do for you.

The city of Clovis presents the first annual Color Run on October 13 starting at 8 am at the Sierra Vista Mall. This 5k run will raise money for the newly renovated Clovis Parks and Recreation building. It’s called the Color Run because at each kilometer of the race, runners will be pelted with colored corn starch. At the end there will be a festival with a DJ. Details: 321-2767

Surf Thru tells us it just opened its fourth (2nd in Clovis) location at 596 W. Shaw Ave in Clovis

Bear Creek Gifts will be celebrating 15 years of business in Old Town Clovis on September 24th. They are located on 4th street next to DiCicco’s. Owners Larry and Pat Grossi are also celebrating becoming proud Great Grandparents in July with the birth of their handsome great grandson.

The Sierra Vista Mall now offers free Wi-Fi service at the mall courtesy of Innovative I.T. Details: 573-3500

Ad-Venture Video Productions has just completed the recording of

multiple recipe videos for the California Ag Advisory Board. The next step is to translate those into Japanese to assist with marketing of California Figs to markets abroad. Ad-Venture loves dedicating its multiple video services to help the Valley’s important Agriculture industry reach new markets around the world. Details: 251-5747

To complement an already highly skilled staff, The Tutoring Club of Clovis recently added two quality tutors to its team. The addition of Berto and Bill permits the continued offering of full service tutoring in all levels of math, reading, writing, SAT/ACT prep, sciences, foreign language and more. Details: 268-8867

The Comfort Suites in Clovis has been completely renovated. The hotel offers 54 spacious guest suites, a fresh décor package, luxurious bedding and a nutritious full hot breakfast to start your day. The hotel hosts guests for weddings, reunions, sports teams and corporate groups. Details: 323-8080

Congratulations to The Heart of the Horse Therapy Ranch for receiving the

“Hands-On Hero Award” for Health and Wellness by First 5 Fresno County. Heart of the Horse Therapy helps exceptional Central Valley citizens achieve new heights and discover new abilities through supervised therapeutic equestrian activities with live onsite therapy at Children’s Hospital of Central California and Ranch therapy with Veterans from the Central California VA Hospital in Fresno. Details: 297-7100

Gena Strang-Behrens of Ideasplus Promotional Products in Fresno is Fresno State President Joseph I. Castro’s first appointment to the University Advisory Board, a panel of community members who advise the president regarding the improvement and development of the university. She also serves on the President’s Transition Team. Details: 273-3549

Kaiser Permanente Fresno recently announced the addition of six new physicians: Dermatologist Alan Blankenship, MD, Surgeon Nicole Datrice-Hill, MD, Radiologist Karan Kapoor, MD, Urologist Bhavin Patel, MD, Podiatrist Jacob Thompson, MD and Pulmonologist

Jasper Ip, MD. Details: 448-4138Christian of ParleyShot Photography

tells us that you can now browse the Hinds Hospice Thrift Store in Clovis using Google Business Photos. Just Google “Hinds Hospice Thrift Store” and check out the inside of their store. Details: 840-6222

John Riding and Everett O’Keefe from The Solution Machine just helped Speaker, Author and Financial Advisor Frank Leyes become a number one best seller on Amazon in 4 categories with the launch of his new book “The Way of Wealth:7 Steps to Financial Freedom in a World of Economic Dependence.” During the launch the book ir even beat out books by Suzy Orman and Dave Ramsey.

Shann Conner of Conner Insurance Services just completed certification to be a Covered California certified agent. A family of 4 earning up to $94,200 will qualify for a federal premium subsidy to pay for health insurance premiums. A broker is still your best option to assist you with your healthcare options. Details: 307-1161

Care for Clovis

In her discussion at Wake Up Clovis in March, Mayor Lynne Ashbeck brought up the need to take care of our community. A conversation ensued and Care for Clovis was begun.

She and the city staff created a logo and along with the Chamber, decided on the elements of the program.

Lynne explained, “Care for Clovis is both a reminder and an encouragement for all…that community pride is a critical element of a successful community. And community pride starts with each one of us…doing small things every day to ensure that our community remains the best, safest, cleanest, strongest community around.”

Chamber CEO Mark Blackney explained, “The focus of the Clovis Chamber this year is to take good care of your family and community. Those are the most important aspects of your life and the ones you can more impact.”

Lynne continued, “The City and the Chamber share the belief in and value for a self-reliant community.. and that despite the chaos in Sacramento and Washington

DC, we really CAN make a difference closer to home. Clovis’ history is rooted in this notion of self-reliance…neighbors helping neighbors and shopping local.”

The logo and banners will be displayed the city’s parks and Civic Center with others distributed in strategic areas. The Eagle Scouts will assist in the signage.

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More Good News, coNtiNued oN paGe 4

More Good NewsContinued from page 3

Milla Vineyards is hosting W.I.N.E. (Women in Need of Everything) – a Girl’s Night Out on Saturday, September 28th. Enjoy wine, chocolate, shopping and more. Pamper yourself and hang out with the girls Bring your friends. $5 cover charge. Call 277-1656 for details.

Jeff Petersen and his brother opened an independent New Horizon Insurance Services office on June 1, 2012 at 725 Pollasky Ave in Old Town Clovis. It has now been more than a year and they have moved to a larger, more convenient location at 325 Clovis Ave. Details: 322-2525

Weed Man Fresno is proud to announce that lawn technician, Scott Smith, has now earned the title of “Landscape Industry Certified.” This certification program is provided by PLANET, a national trade association representing more than 100,000 landscape industry professionals who create and maintain healthy, green living spaces for communities across America. Details: 266-1624

On August 4th, Vino & Friends held their annual “The Taste of Vino” fundraiser at the Save Mart Center. This year the recipient was the Central California Make A Wish Foundation. On September 23rd, owners Chuck and Jen Ven Fleet presented the foundation with a check for $30,000. They would like to thank all the wineries, sponsors and participants for their support. Details: 434-1771

GNC, General Nutrition Center, has a new manager, Michelle Russ at the Willow and Herndon store. Transferring from the Fig Garden location, Michelle has years of experience and expertise in nutritional

products and sports related items. Details: 297-1757

American Cancer Society Relay for Life is currently recruiting volunteers to serve on the planning committees for the Spring 2014 annual fundraisers in Clovis and Fresno. Meetings are held once per month. They are recruiting teams also. Details: 451-0163

In August 2014, the Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors appointed Danny C. Gomez as Executive Coordinator. The CCHCC looks forward to serving the community under the leadership of Gomez. Details: 495-4817

Diversified Builders recently completed an interior remodel for Ellie Huston, Clovis Chamber Vice Chair Marketing, with a referral from Chamber Ambassador Bret Taylor. Chamber membership does have great benefits. Diversified Builders also gave away a custom vanity and granite countertop to a Y101 contest winner. Details: 999-2161

The Ron Madden Agency Nationwide was a proud sponsor of the Boys and Girls Club, Day 4 Kids Event on September 13th where they gave away a bicycle to one lucky child. As a family owned business, they are excited to have the opportunity to participate in community activities and give back the blessings they have received. Details: 472-3920

EcoWater of Central California, a

Berkshire-Hathaway Company, had a record breaking month in the sales of their water treatment systems through their Costco in-store kiosks.

Good news for Butler Web Designs. They hired a full-time sales rep, Timothy Greene and a new intern from Clovis ITT, Patty Martin Del Campo. They are busy,

busy, BUSY. Details: 797-3414The Ramos Torres Winery invites you to

their Thanksgiving lunch taking place on December 14th at the winery. It will start at noon with lunch served at 12:30 to 2 pm. Great

wine will be served with the three course meal.

Details: 419-9159On the Edge in Old Town

Clovis has expanded its menu to include delicious , mouth-watering Paninis, wraps and salads to go along with their great coffee. Come celebrate their first anniversary on October 12th with a rockin party on the patio. Details: 298-4040

Digital Attic has started producing the next season of the nationally broadcast TV show “Hey, Kids, Let’s Cook”. Digital Attic provides the filming, animations, and creative direction for the show. This is the company’s second season of producing the educational program

Assemblyman Jim Patterson is pleased to announce two new additions to his staff: Kristen Freberg, a former Fresno State Maddy intern, who will serve as his Office Assistant and Jane Metcalf, his

new Senior Field Representative who will serve along with Ben Bergquam . Details: 446-2029

The Clovis Community Band is still seeking donations to help fund their trip to Normandy, France in 2014 where they will play at the 70th Commemoration of D-Day. This patriotic concert will honor the lives of the more than 9,000 brave soldiers who were killed or wounded in the Battle of Normandy on June, 1944. Details: 325-8400

Karkazian Jewelers is pleased to introduce Talene Karkazian’s recycled jewelry line, Tea-K. Her fine jewelry is made of recycled materials. Details: 297-0201

Habitat for Humanity Fresno County celberated its Annual Breakfast with a large turnout of local businesses. Key note speakers included Rebecca Hix, Director, Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative and Brad Bell, Directional Leader, The Well Community Church. Restore announced its August award winners: Jerry, James and David.

Sharon Johnson, Executive Director for the Susan G. Komen Central Valley Affiliate, has been selected for recognition as a Community Champion by the Big Fresno Fair Board. She will be awarded the Humanitarian Award at the opening ceremonies of the fair.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Central Valley celebrates their fifth year on Sunday, October 6th with a 5k fundraising walk. For more information call 1-800-227-2345

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Affordable Care Act Employer Letter Requirement

• Employers must give employees health care notification.

• Affects employers with one or more employees and a gross income of $500,000 or more.

• Notices due October 1, 2013.• New Employees must be notified

within 14 days.Beginning Oct. 1, any business with at

least one employee and $500,000 in annual revenue must notify all employees by letter about the Affordable Care Act’s health care exchanges. The requirement applies to any business regulated under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), regardless of size. Going forward, letters are to be distributed to any new hires within 14 days of their starting date, according to the Department of Labor.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has a general $100-per-day penalty for non-compliance. Since this requirement is in the FLSA, concerns were raised in the business community that

the $100-per-day penalty would apply to businesses that did not comply with the notification requirements.

On September 12, 2013, the Small Business Administration (sba.gov) posted a blog called “Myth #3: Business Owners Will Be Fined if They Don’t Notify Their Employees about the New Health Insurance Marketplace.” The article clarifies the policy, stating: “If your company is covered by the FLSA, you must provide a written notice to your employees about the Health Insurance Marketplace by October 1, 2013. However, there is no fine or penalty under the law for failing to provide the notice.”

The Department of Labor provides model notices for employers:

Employers with plans: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/FLSAwithplans.pdf

Employers without plans: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/FLSAwithoutplans.pdf

If you have questions, please give this office a call at (559) 326-2029.

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Thank You to these renewing members - October 2013

Assmblyman Jim Patterson (29th District)6245 N. Fresno St. Ste 106 Fresno CA 93710

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino711 Lucky Lane Coarsegold CA 93614

Berdel Warrior - Health & Wellness Coach @ It WorksSquaw Valley CA 93675

Central Valley Imaging SuppliesFresno CA 93722

Clovis True Value1890 Shaw Ave. Clovis CA 93611

Divine Designs PRO777 Minnewawa Clovis CA 93615

Guy Williams Independent AssociateClovis CA

LegalShieldClovis CA 93619

Hashimoto Tile Co. - Russell HashimotoClovis CA 93619

Jamba Juice1215 Herndon Ave. Clovis CA 93612

Kenneth Jorgensen Law P.C.264 Clovis Ave. Ste 211 Clovis CA 93612

LegalShieldFresno CA 93720

Lotus Fresno Corp - 105.1 the Blaze1110 E. Olive Ave. Fresno CA 93728

Melaleuca, Inc. - Julie NovielliDel Rey CA 93616

Premier Valley Realty5067 N. Mariposa Ave. Ste 104 Fresno CA

Premium Urgent Care2021 Herndon Ave. Ste 101 Clovis CA

Pressutti Orthodontics 726 W Barstow Ave Ste 115 Fresno CA

Ron Sundquist - Photographer Clovis CA 93612

SendOutCards - Tara Marks Fresno CA 93727

Talahi Media ArtsP.O. Box 360 Prather CA 93654

TekTegrity IT Strategies and Management401 W. Fallbrook Ave. #101 Fresno CA

Edward Jones2026 Shaw Ave, Ste #103 Clovis CA 93611

U-Haul Company749 N. Blackstone Fresno CA 93701

Advantage Bookkeeping & Payroll635 Barstow #18 Clovis CA 93612

Welcome our Newest Members!

Speed Networking Returns Oct 24th Speed Networking returns on October

24th after selling out every session. This is the fun, productive way to make valuable contacts, get new leads and get your business known.

Participants sit across from each other and have 2 minutes with each partner. When the bell rings, one side shifts over and starts all over again. By the end of the evening, you will have interacted with 23 people.

Between the two rounds, drinks and snacks will be served.

Costing $18 for Clovis Chamber members and $31 for non-members, the space is limited to only 24 people on a first call, first reserved status.

Register by calling 299-7363 or e-mailing Beth at beth@clovischamber.com.

31 YearsSampson, Sampson & Patterson, LLP, (559) 291-0277

24 yearsHoliday Inn Fresno Airport, (559) 252-3611 13 to 17 YearsClovis Hills Community Church, (559) 297-2600Environment Control Building Maintenance, (559) 456-9791, www.environmentcontrol.com, Kit SealsBear Creek Gifts & Cabin Decor, (559) 323-7398, Price Associates Insurance Services, Inc., (559) 487-5349, www.priceassociates.com, Jacquelyn JohnsClovis Botanical Garden, (559) 298-3091, http://www.clovis-botanicalgarden.org, Anne ClemonsAnlin Industries, (559) 322-1531, www.anlin.com, Tom VidmarClovis Pack & Ship, (559) 297-9005, http://clovispackand-ship.com/, Jack ChristiansonM & N Minuteman Press, (559) 299-2568, Marty FanucchiGreg’s Bookkeeping & Tax Service, (559) 325-9185, www.clovistaxpreparation.com, Greg Mason

5 to 10 yearsImprint Solutions, (559) 289-2497, www.imprint-solutions.

com, Gail, Thiesen-KolanderGoSmallBiz, Legal Shield, ID Theft Shield, (559) 222-7757, www.legalshield.com/hub/dove, Sally DoveGarcia 2 Property Inspections, (559) 312-7509, Ken GarciaRay Morgan Company, (559) 261-9349, Tim Kent, Fresno County Federal Credit Union, (559) 252-5000, www.fresnocfcu.org, Mathew MartinezLiberty Tax Service - Ashlan & Golden State, 559-495-5794, www.libertytax.com, Shawana, LillardHuman Resources Consortium, The, (559) 227-6115, www.hrconsortium.net, Fred, Mora IIIStarving Artists Bistro featuring Dinner MyWay, (559) 433-0133, www.starvingartistsbistro.comOrganized by Choice, (559) 871-3314, www.organizedby-choice.com, Brenda McElroy 2 to 4 yearsGreatValleyCoupons.com by Web City Press, (559) 485-5500, www.GreatValleyCoupons.com, Dave BraseTicket Momma, (407) 396-7508, www.ticketmomma.com, Jill Hendrickson Transformational Coaching, (559) 432-0481, www.jillhendrickson.comLyonesse - Joy Nichols-King, (559) 259-4272Inner Decor Associates, (559) 313-9187, www.innerdecorassoc.com, Mavra Patropulos

Fresno Networks, LLC, (559) 314-1820, www.fresnonetworks.com, Kip HaroldsenSandollar Limited LLC DBA Alternative IT Solutions, 559-389-7040, www.gethasslefreeit.com, Joy McMillanLaw Office of Jerry R. Lowe, 559-513-8535, Jerry LoweKeller Williams Realty - Mike Bustamante, (559) 696-2573, www.MikeBust.comHelios TFB, Inc., (559) 237-1400, www.Helios-TFB.com, Augie SantellanoCalifornia Indoor Comfort, Inc., (559) 276-7457, www.calin-doorcomfort.com, Keith RossignolJafra Cosmetics - Susan Ying, (559) 250-5125, www.myJafra.com/sying, Susan , YingLocal Leverage Internet Marketing, (559) 776-5208, http://local-leverage.com/, Chris Leake

First YearHeart of the Horse Therapy Ranch, (559) 297-7100, www.HeartoftheHorse.com, Guy AdamsKuhtz Diehl Insurance & Financial Services - Marla Urdesich, (559) 251-0501, www.kdifs.com, Craig Levine Insurance Ser-vice, (559) 307-8633, , Craig LevineKids Moving Incorporated, (559) 408-6960, Tami PhillipsLes Schwab Tire Center, (559) 298-7894, www.LesSchwab.com, Rob Dyer

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Are you kidding me?By Fran BlackneyBusiness Advocate

As the details of the (Un)Affordable Care Act, aka: Obamacare, become more known, the particulars are seeming more frightening than Halloween.

As predicted by many who opposed the bill, its execution (I wish) is so impossible that many deadlines have been delayed , some for years. One such deadline was the employer mandate for companies over 50 employees. That’s been pushed back to 2015. What the government forgot to mention until last month is that there’s a mandate on smaller companies that wasn’t pushed back. It’s due by October 1st of this year.

All companies with at least one employee and revenues greater than $500,000, must give their employees letters describing Obamacare and how to sign up for the exchanges. Those letters are available on the Dept. of Justice web site. Here’s the kicker – for every day you don’t comply past the deadline, you are susceptible for a $100 a day penalty. The only way that penalty will apply is if you are audited by the DOJ that has increased its number of agents, if one of your employees turns you in or if you “self-report”.

In 1995, the Congressional Accountability Act was passed. The Act applied to Congress the same civil rights and labor laws that they required of us everyday citizens. It has worked well over the years. Until Obamacare. The ruckus from the Congress and their staff was deafening. “What? We have to follow Obamacare? We can’t afford it. We’ll lose our best people”. It would save taxpayers millions of dollars but they don’t care.

It’s not their money. Guess what. The administration let them exempt themselves from the law so they can continue with their generous benefits on your dime with no interruption.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that is running Obamacare wants to require health providers to include “social and behavioral” data in your new electronic health records and link them to public health departments. You read that right. The National Academy of Sciences is making the recommendations for the data storage. They are considering collecting information about your drug, alcohol and tobacco use, mental health and family issues and your sex life. The contract orders the committee to identify linking the data with “public health departments, social service agencies, or other relevant non-health care organizations and case studies, if possible”. If physicians don’t comply, they are susceptible for penalties and a decrease in reimbursements. Gone is any concept of confidentiality with your health provider. Your life is owned by the government.

Your health and behavior aren’t the only information that will be circulating around various government agencies. If you choose or are forced to sign up for one of the state exchanges, you’ll get to work with a “navigator” if you need assistance with the 20+ page computer application form. These navigators are just now being hired, will have about 2 weeks training with no background checks. You will be telling them your personal information like social security numbers, driver’s license, income and health data. That information

will be given to 7 agencies including Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, the IRS and Healthcare. Most of the navigators are honest people but you know what happens during massive government hiring. Some bad apples will get through and you won’t know if you’re working with one. Even government types are expressing privacy concerns especially when you know that a new cottage industry will crop up of “navigators” calling you at home to “sign you up”.

The latest polling data shows that 12% of Americans think Obamacare will help them and over 75% don’t realize they are required to sign up for insurance. Meanwhile, you can relax knowing your elected officials and staff will continue their coverage on your dime.

So we know about the NSA and other agencies collecting your communication data and soon health data. But they couldn’t stop there. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (what an oxymoron) wants to monitor four out of every five credit card transactions this year – that’s over 42 billion. Not stopping there, they hope to monitor up to 95% of all mortgage transactions.

Big Government keeps on rollin, rollin, rollin. The Housing and Urban Development, HUD, doesn’t think you’re capable of choosing the right neighborhood to live in. According to a recent document, “The agency wants the power to dismantle local zoning so communities have what it considers the right mix of economic, racial and ethnic diversity. A finding of discriminatory behavior, or allegations of discrimination, would no longer be necessary”. They go on with “Local governments will have to take meaningful actions to further the goals identified. “ If they fail to comply, HUD can cut federal funding. HUD is already attacking cities over zoning. It told Westchester County north of New York that any limits on the size, type, height and density of building are restrictive practices.

Many of us think California is on the wrong track but its deficit is nothing compared to Illinois where Illinois Department of Corrections ran out of meat seasoning for the inmates’ hot dogs at the Menard Correctional Center meat shop. It made an “emergency” $15,000, no-bid contract to end the crisis. Last year, the state approved more than $135 million in no-bid contracts. Already this year, it has pledged over $190 million to organizations to push Obamacare. Of course, “no-bid” is the same as their cousin’s company. No competition means no taxpayer savings.

As you recall, the Washington DC city council passed a bill targeting Big Box stores requiring a minimum wage of $12.50 an hour. WalMart immediately stopped plans for 3 of their 6 stores in the impoverished area and threatened to stop construction on the other 3. Furthermore, other large retailers like Target and Home Depot threatened to stay out of Washington DC. The good news is that the mayor quickly vetoed the bill recognizing the economic harm it brings to the area. Mandating a minimum wage kills jobs. The city council wiped out 1800 jobs for low income people, many who are on government assistance. Instead of having those people work, the council would rather keep them on the dole. Furthermore, increased wages equal increased prices. WalMart’s low prices help low income customers’ money go further. But the council doesn’t care.

John Vicars is trying to build an ice cream parlor in the heart of Oakland’s busiest shopping district. He started on his quest 9 months ago and still hasn’t met the city’s constantly changing requirements. First he had to pay $3,500 for the right to “apply” for a conditional use permit. The city said it would take only 3 months. First they told him he had to add plants and an irrigation system to the back of the building that is out of sight from the public. But not just any plants. He had to submit detailed descriptions of the plants, shrubs and vines for species review. Oakland requires strict recycling but Vicars can’t use the recycling bins behind his shop because it may be too noisy for the neighbors. To top it off – he will be required to provide valet parking on Saturday nights from 5 to 8 – for an ice cream shop. Vladimar Putin would be so proud.

Ending on a crazy note. We all know our educational system needs some tweaking. It seems that in Little Rock, Arkansas, it needs more than just tweaking. The district has come out with a new, restrictive, perhaps unachievable dress code – for the teachers. It’s just horrible. First, they have to wear underwear, including bras for the women. No sheer, torn, cut-out or ragged jeans or shorts are allowed. Tummies and tattoos must be covered and real shoes, not flip flops, must be worn. T-shirts can’t have slogans for beer, alcohol, drugs, gangs or sex and, Gasp, no spandex. So guess who complained. The teachers union. The leaders fear that if a teacher refuses to comply, it may be considered insubordination. (Hello, real world).

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